"Highly anxious"
In the picturesque island of Sark, a series of unexpected developments have sparked concern among local committees and residents. The latest controversy revolves around a significant increase in electricity prices, with tariffs rising by 60p per unit from Monday.
The Chief Pleas, Sark's government, has vowed to take action if the Sark Electricity Limited (SEL) starts disconnecting large numbers of customers due to the looming price rises. They are extremely concerned about these developments and believe that the additional levies are unjustified.
The catalyst for this situation is the announcement made by Alan Witney Price, who has proposed an additional 20p per unit levy to challenge the findings of the investigation by the Electricity Price Commissioner. Another 40p 'legal levy' was added in response to SEL's planned challenge against the continued planning for the compulsory purchase of SEL. Money raised through these charges will be kept by Collas Crill to be used in his legal fight against Chief Pleas.
The Electricity Price Control Commissioner has launched an urgent formal investigation into the new electricity pricing, with a draft determination anticipated to be published early next week, followed by a consultation period. The commission responsible for this investigation is expected to publish the results by spring 2027, aligning with the coalition agreement mentioned in the sources.
The planned compulsory purchase of Sark Electricity is continuing, with a valuer suggested to SEL. If agreement cannot be reached on a joint valuer, the Policy & Finance Committee will apply to the Court for an order appointing the valuer.
The Committees remain committed to ensuring a reliable and sustainable electricity supply for Sark. They are aware of concerns about the threat of disconnection and will seek the intervention of the Civil Contingencies Authority if necessary. Guernsey's Civil Contingencies Authority is on standby to intervene if SEL starts disconnecting large numbers of customers.
Customers facing financial hardship should contact SEL first, but can also reach out to the Island Safeguarding Officer for assistance. If the Commissioner finds the price increase unjustified, a new Price Control Order may be issued to set a regulated price. The final determination is expected by the end of September 2025.
Both the Chief Pleas' Policy & Finance Committee and the Future Energy Committee are extremely concerned about these developments. They are hopeful for a swift resolution to the current situation and are working diligently to ensure the best interests of the island's residents are upheld. The government is also hopeful for a resolution, expressing their belief that these additional levies are unjustified.
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