The cost of electricity in Samoa is set to drop next month in a bid by the Government to make it affordable for consumers. 

This was confirmed by the Electric Power Corporation (E.P.C.) General Manager, Faumui Iese Toimoana, in response to questions from the Samoa Observer.

Last week, the state-owned utility issued a public notice on its Facebook page revealing the change in tariff per unit of electricity which will be effective  1 December 2020.  

According to Faumui, the new tariff is a result of changes in energy charge component of the tariff, based on the actual cost of electricity production in October.  

“This component was reviewed by the Office of the Regulator and they approved the new changes to the electricity tariff,” he said.

The E.P.C. chief also relayed that the cost of electricity for the people of Samoa will be affordable.

“The energy charge has been decreased from $0.42 sene to $0.34 sene, an $0.08 sene saving for our customers for every electricity unit (KWH) consumed. 

“There are a number of contributing factors that determines the change in the electricity tariff: the fuel cost for October was lower compare to previous month; increase in electricity production from our renewable sources especially from our hydro plants (less expenses on diesel purchases); and efficient operation (low expenses on the operation and maintenance services).”

He said they also have to keep in mind that of the Government’s COVID-19 stimulus package which was effective on the 1st of April 2020, which include a $0.10 sene reduction in the cost of electricity by the way of assistance to the hardship faced as a result of the lockdown is still in effect.

Asked how E.P.C. will benefit from the new change, he said that “it does not benefit the Corporation financially but we get satisfaction from providing the best service to our customers and also aids in the private sector and business developments.”

Faumui explained that it’s an achievement for the Corporation as their immediate vision is “increased access by all people of Samoa to quality and affordable electricity supply.”

 “We continue to strive to make our operation more efficient, reliable and sustainable.”