Strategic plans, not brochures
It’s a welcome sign that amid the scorching heat wave, the Development Ministry has been distributing information bulletins advising the residents of the capital against wasting electricity these difficult days. However, it would have been even more beneficial if the government had hammered out a comprehensive plan to deal with the chronic power shortages. The country must take measures so that the Public Power Corporation (PPC) does not have to pay for electricity at exorbitant prices in order to power the soaring number of air conditioners running full blast in the country. Regrettably, the plans for deregulating the power sector have stalled, while PPC has failed to make the requisite investments to lift the country from the constant threat of blackouts. Electricity demand is set to rise in the coming years. For that reason, the ministry must carve out a strategic plan to meet future needs while PPC must make the requisite investment.
