Today the Minister of Home Affairs, the Hon. Alexa N. H. Lightbourne, JP, MP, shared the following in response to the recent House of Assembly passage of the Electricity Amendment Act.

Minister Lightbourne said, “Every household and business in Bermuda depends on reliable and affordable electricity. Decisions about our energy future affect the monthly bills paid by families, the operating costs faced by businesses, and the overall competitiveness of our economy.

“That is why the House of Assembly has approved amendments to the Electricity Act. These amendments do not weaken the independent role of the Regulatory Authority.

“The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) remains in place, and technical and engineering decisions remain with those who have the expertise to make them.

“What has changed is the recognition that decisions about Bermuda’s energy future do not exist in a vacuum. They have real consequences for the people who pay the bills. When decisions affect every electricity customer, it is reasonable, and necessary, that the elected Government ensures that the broader public interest is considered. The people of Bermuda do not elect regulators; they elect a Government to safeguard their interests, particularly when essential services are involved.

“These amendments ensure that Bermuda’s energy future is shaped not only by technical considerations, but also by an understanding of affordability, reliability, and national impact.

At the same time, the legislation strengthens the long-term planning framework for the electricity sector. It places the Integrated Resource Plan firmly in the public domain, reinforces the independence of the regulator, and opens the process to the wider community, including businesses, households, and sectors that depend on reliable power.

“For too long, the structure of the sector has allowed one entity to play multiple roles in shaping and benefiting from the plan. When the body that helps define the plan also brings forward projects for approval, the plan risks losing its purpose as a guiding framework. These reforms address that imbalance and restore transparency and accountability.

“Bermuda already set an ambitious goal in 2019 to reach approximately 85 per cent renewable energy by 2035. However, progress has not matched that ambition, and projections indicate continued reliance on fossil fuels in the years ahead. The transition that was promised has not yet been fully realised.

“International examples show that change is possible. Jurisdictions with similar constraints, such as isolated grids and high energy costs, have successfully expanded renewable energy, increased competition, and delivered savings to consumers.

“Bermuda’s path must be tailored to our own realities, but these examples demonstrate what can be achieved with the right framework. Some will describe these changes as interference. In reality, they introduce transparency where it has been lacking and ensure that decision-making reflects the interests of the public.

“The amendments are deliberately narrow, applying only in defined circumstances and in the public interest. They do not give Ministers open-ended control, nor do they undermine the regulator’s independence. An energy system must serve everyone who depends on it, and everyone depends on it. Reliability is essential. Affordable electricity is essential. A successful transition to cleaner energy is essential. This is why the process must be open, inclusive, and accountable. Every stakeholder, from households and small businesses to major industries and community organisations has a role in shaping Bermuda’s energy future. 

“One island. One energy system. Built for everyone. The plan now belongs to the people of Bermuda. Together, we have the opportunity to build an energy future that protects affordability, strengthens reliability, and delivers the transition that our country has long been promised.”