GEBE’s announcement about reviewing its finances to decide whether any relief for clients can be given (see related story) will no doubt be welcomed by many. Of course, the Government-owned company must be careful in light of additional burdens it too faces due to damage to its offices, infrastructure, machines and equipment.
Not only that, but extra cost probably has been incurred to restore energy production and bring back power in the various districts. This probably will include accommodations and other expenses for crews from elsewhere sent over to assist.
Perhaps most important, the amount of tap water and electricity from the grid consumed on the Dutch side immediately after the passage of Hurricane Irma is obviously going to be significantly lower than would normally be the case. This will affect the utilities provider’s bottom line certainly for the month of September.
Management is nevertheless doing the right thing by seeing what is possible. For one thing, the bill consists not only of actual usage, but also fixed fees that ought to at least be prorated based on the number of days service was supplied.
Telecommunication companies TelEm and UTS would do well to follow suit. It’s not just about phone calls made, but payments for subscriptions, etc., also Internet, that are still lacking in several locations.
They will have to balance the need to keep their finances healthy and the interest of their customers who did not get the usual service for days or even weeks. In that sense, there is a clear corporate civic responsibility.
