PDM Raises Alarm Over Pelican Energy’s Reported 50-Year Electricity Licence Application

News Release

At a press conference today, Leader of the People’s Democratic Movement, Hon. Douglas Parnell, informed the public that Pelican Energy has submitted an application to the Governor seeking a 50-year licence to generate and distribute electricity, initially in Grand Turk.

Hon. Parnell warned that a 50-year licence is not an ordinary renewal but a decision that could bind the Turks and Caicos Islands for two generations.

“The public should not learn about an application of this magnitude only after negotiations are advanced or a decision has effectively been made,” he said.

The PDM Leader called upon the Governor and the Government to confirm receipt of the application, disclose the areas and services it covers, publish the proposed terms and explain the process by which it will be assessed.

He said the PDM opposes granting any utility company a 50-year licence without:

•⁠ ⁠full public disclosure;

•⁠ ⁠independent technical, legal and financial assessments;

•⁠ ⁠meaningful public consultation;

•⁠ ⁠clear evidence of lower electricity costs;

•⁠ ⁠enforceable service, infrastructure and renewable-energy obligations; and

•⁠ ⁠effective review, enforcement and termination provisions.

Hon. Parnell stressed that the remaining period under the existing licences gives the country valuable negotiating power, which must be used to secure lower rates, better service, stronger hurricane resilience and greater protection for consumers.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands must not surrender 50 years of national bargaining power behind closed doors,” Hon. Parnell said.

“The electricity system exists to serve the people. Its future must not be decided without them.”

People’s Democratic Movement