The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) is pleased to announce the publication of its Statement of Results and Final Decision following a comprehensive public consultation process on proposed revisions to the Consumer Protection Regulations for the Electronic Communications Sector (ECS). This process commenced on 18 September 2023, with an extended deadline for responses to accommodate comprehensive feedback from stakeholders. The original Consumer Protection Regulations, introduced in December 2013 and revised in February 2014, have been instrumental in safeguarding consumer interests within the ECS. However, evolving market dynamics and URCA’s experiences in addressing consumer complaints necessitated a review to ensure…
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA), responsible for the regulation of the electronic communications and electricity sectors in The Bahamas, today published its Statement of Results from the public consultation on the Draft Annual Plan for 2024. This document outlines URCA's responses to feedback received from stakeholders and details the next steps in finalizing its strategic and operational direction for the coming year. After inviting comments from stakeholders, URCA received valuable insights from the Bahamas Telecommunication Company (BTC), Cable Bahamas Limited and Be Aliv Limited (CBL Group), and individual contributor Samuel Samon Thompson. The feedback provided a critical analysis…
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) announces its preliminary findings and invites public commentary on the review of the state of competition within the markets for retail fixed electronic communications services in The Bahamas. This encompasses retail fixed voice, retail fixed broadband, and retail pay TV services. In its comprehensive Preliminary Determination, URCA has outlined its provisional assessment of the competitive dynamics within these markets and the consequent need for continued ex-ante regulation to ensure fair competition and consumer protection. URCA is now seeking feedback on its initial stance through written responses to consultation questions detailed in the document. …
The Utilities Regulation and Competition Authority (URCA) has today issued its 2024 Fee Schedule. Publication of the Fee Schedule is in accordance with section 8(1)(e) of the Communications Act, 2009. Persons may view the 2024 Fee Schedule here. Invoices will be issued to licensees in the usual manner.
