The National Water and Sewerage Commission (NWSC), last week hosted a conference on utility regulation.

The conference aimed to improve the knowledge of key stakeholders on utility regulation and specifically on the roles and functions of a utility regulator.

NWSC Executive Director, Kelly Joseph, said while the role of utility companies remain unchanged, their business practices evolve over time.

"There is greater pressure from consumers, you have the effects of climate change and how it affects infrastructure, and most [companies] do not receive financing from central government - they have to do more with less."

Senior regulatory Professional, J. Paul Morgan, facilitated the conference. He explained why it is of paramount importance for utility regulators to engage stakeholders.

"The business of regulation is something that is not really understood," he said. "The regulatory companies don't usually want to see the status quo disturbed and consumers themselves really do not care depending on the deal they are getting from the utilities. Thinking in that context, it is important that the regulatory authority informs the public of its duties, what the benefits to society are, and what the benefits for stakeholders are."

The conference was held on Aug. 6, under the theme “Understanding Utility Regulation in a Changing Environment."

Stakeholders included the Chamber of Commerce, the Manufacturers Association, The Hotel and Tourism Associations, government ministries and representatives from the various town and village councils.