Energy Minister Daryl Vaz says he is disturbed by complaints from Jamaica Public Service (JPS) customers about an "unusual and major spike" in their latest electricity bills.

In a media release Sunday evening, Vaz said he will formally write to the leadership of the Office of Utilities Regulations (OUR) on Monday insisting on an investigation into multiple complaints about the issue.

The energy minister also demanded an explanation from the JPS for the spike.

"I've been bombarded by complaints from Jamaicans from all walks of life. I will also be sending correspondence to JPS insisting on an investigation into this development and an explanation. I will insist that customers of the JPS be treated in a fair and just manner. The widespread reports of a major spike in bills presents an opportunity for us to once and for all deal with longstanding complaints about the JPS' billing cycle," Vaz commented.

He disclosed that he has also received reports that JPS customers who were without electricity for an extended time due to Hurricane Beryl have received a major increase in their bills.

Vaz said "the current development is unacceptable and it would be appropriate should the OUR, which is the body authorised in law to regulate utility companies in Jamaica, immediately seeks to assist the Government's efforts to ensure just and fair treatment of the Jamaican people."

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