High energy costs force water lockoffs

Jamaicans have been told to brace for water lockoffs as the National Water Commission (NWC) will be shutting down some of its facilities during certain hours.

The NWC said that the shutdown represents proactive steps to safeguard water supply amid the global oil price crisis.

"Given the forecasts of the real probability that oil prices are likely to increase even further in the short to medium term amid the current volatility on the global market, these proactive measures are necessary, as urgent steps must now be taken to cushion the effects of the rising costs of operations," the NWC said in a media statement yesterday.

It continued: "If oil-related operational costs are not effectively contained or managed, our customers could be at risk of not having sustained supplies when it is needed most, and this can have far-reaching negative national consequences."

The NWC said that customers will be given adequate notice regarding the facilities that will be taken out of operation in order to cut energy costs.

"During this time of uncertainty, conservation should be the watchword on everyone's lips. Customers must now conserve as best as possible if they are to have water at all times, because given the soaring costs of energy, from a prudent managerial perspective, the NWC would not be able to operate certain plants and systems on a 24-hour basis," the utility company said.