Rumours of a dramatic increase in water rates in St. Lucia seem have generated some panic and much discussion, prompting a swift response from the government of St. Lucia.
A release from the government yesterday referred to social media comments that suggested that there has been an increase in local water rates by as much as 32%. The release from the government described this information as “inaccurate, misleading,” and information that does not reflect the “established legal and regulatory framework governing water services in Saint Lucia.”
The government release reminds that the tariff review remains a “regulated, transparent, multi-step process led by the independent regulator, the National Utilities Regulatory Commission, NURC, with consumer interests central to any eventual decision.”
The clarification from the government reiterated that there were no water rate increase approved or implemented highlighting that The Water and Sewerage Company Inc. (WASCO) is the licensed supplier of potable water and wastewater services in Saint Lucia. Under the Water and Sewerage Act, and the National Utilities Regulatory Commission (NURC) Act, WASCO cannot unilaterally increase water tariffs; any rate change must be reviewed, proposed, and formally approved by the NURC, an independent economic regulator.
The government admitted however, that a “Regulatory Review of Tariffs is underway, but not yet completed.”
In 2025, the NURC began a formal tariff review process for WASCO’s proposed rate adjustments covering the 2024–2027 period. The regulator has reportedly commenced the first stages of reviewing WASCO’s application, which includes an assessment of the utility’s business plan, investment requirements, and cost of service, followed by public and stakeholder consultations, and eventually a draft determination. The specific proposed tariff figures have not yet been approved or implemented.
Public Consultations is expected to form a major part of the review process. The NURC has reportedly scheduled consultations involving consumers, civil society, and other stakeholders in an effort to review proposals, provide feedback, and express concerns before any final tariff decision is made.
Current water rates are based on the last approved schedule established under law. These include tiered domestic water rates, commercial rates, and minimum charges set by NURC.
The island is expected to experience major water shortages in the coming months, which has been acknowledged by Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre on numerous occasions.
WASCO and Government officials, including Prime Minister Pierre, have also acknowledged that Saint Lucia’s water utility faces significant operational challenges, including aging infrastructure, climate-related supply variability, and the impacts of extended dry periods. The government says these realities make periodic reviews of cost structures and funding mechanisms necessary to ensure reliable, safe water services for residents and businesses alike of paramount importance.
The government release encouraged St. Lucians to engage with the NURC’s consultation process by reviewing draft tariff reports when published, and submitting their comments, a critical part of the process.