Many Tongan families are expecting lower electricity bills this year after Prime Minister Dr. ʻAisake Eke announced an increase in government subsidies during his first press conference on Thursday at the St George Government building.
The new subsidy of 30 seniti per kilowatt-hour (kWh), up from 11 seniti, took effect on January 1. The decision was made during the new cabinet’s first meeting on Thursday just before the press conference.
Electricity bills have been a growing concern for many households, with families struggling to cover basic needs. The subsidy, which benefits only residential customers consuming less than 150 kWh of electricity, aims to reduce financial pressure by lowering the cost of power.
Prime Minister Eke acknowledged these concerns in his announcement. “By reducing the tariff, families can allocate money to school fees, food items, and so on,” he said.
The subsidy adjustment is part of the new administration’s focus on addressing key public concerns, including prudent government spending and cost-of-living challenges.
With the new subsidy in place, many are eager to see a difference in their next power bill, hoping for much-needed relief amid rising living costs.