Residents interviewed by Metro Puerto Rico in Río Piedras describe frustration, limits on spending and anger as electricity bills climb on top of a high cost of living. An approved increase for the next three months of about $42 will affect the 1.5 million customers of Puerto Rico’s electric system, an increase of 18.5%. For an 800 kWh residential customer, the bill goes from $228.59 to $270.86, a rise of $42.27.
Small businesses will see an increase of 17.1%, and large industrial customers up to 19.7%. Another increase may follow: LUMA Energy told the Puerto Rico Energy Bureau (NEPR) of a $54.4 million fuel cost deficit for September. The fuel burned last month cost $223 million, while the fuel purchase clause (FCA) paid by customers generated only $168.7 million.
The fuel and energy purchase clause factors could be recalculated for the rest of the quarter; otherwise, the deficit would be folded into the next quarterly adjustment, starting in January. On José de Diego Avenue, Ruth Lugo said "everything is quite expensive" and that adjustments are not enough. Kian Laureano has cut back on going out.
Dania Rodríguez said government aid is nonexistent or minimal. Entrepreneur Imar Nieves called it "doubly difficult" to cover personal and business needs, has stopped using her dryer and air conditioning, and is considering a gas stove. She said some days she wonders how she will survive the next month.