Prime Minister Mark Brown says that the Utilities Regulations (Electricity, Water and Sewerage Services) Bill 2024 will ensure that electricity and water services are provided efficiently, safely, and reliably, while also being offered at fair prices for the long-term benefit of customers.

PM Brown presented the Utilities Regulations (Electricity, Water and Sewerage Services) Bill 2024 and explained that the Bill has been in development for some time and is part of government’s key plans for the recovery of the Cook Islands economy, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

He said the Bill allows for regulations that are predictable, clear, and transparent, promoting consumer welfare effectively.

“It will encourage efficient investment and will deliver high-quality, safe, sustainable, and reliable water and electricity networks.

“Furthermore, this Bill aligns with our National Development Goals, including the provision of resilient infrastructure and improving access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy,” Brown said.

He said Cook Islands utility infrastructure, specifically electricity and water networks, plays a vital role in supporting a competitive and growing economy by ensuring that both individuals and businesses have reliable access to these essential services.

“As a government, we are committed to ensuring that our investments in critical infrastructure and utilities are of the highest quality. It is equally important that our investments in water and electricity networks promote sustainability and maintain quality over the long term.”

He said that currently, electricity and water providers, Te Aponga Uira (TAU), To Tatou Vai (TTV), and Te Mana Uira o Araura, are not regulated and do not operate in a competitive environment.  “With the recent establishment of the Competition and Regulatory Authority to regulate telecommunications, we are now well-positioned to include water and electricity sectors under this responsibility,” Brown said.

The Bill has been referred to the Bills, Petitions and Papers Committee.