The Netherlands Authority for Consumers & Markets (ACM) has set the new maximum tariffs for electricity distribution in the Caribbean Netherlands. As a result, an average household on Bonaire will pay about USD 27 more per month from 1 July, on Saba about USD 17 more per month, and on St. Eustatius about USD 12 more per month. The changes are the result of the increased oil price.
Every year in December, the ACM sets the maximum tariffs for the production and distribution of electricity in the Caribbean Netherlands for the new year. Energy suppliers set the tariffs they charge residents and businesses based on these maximum tariffs. To take fluctuating fuel prices into account, the ACM adjusts the variable tariff for consumption of electricity, if necessary, from 1 July. The maximum standing charge does not change in this context.
Unlike the variable usage rate, the maximum standing charge as established by the ACM on 1 January 2026 is not changing. In 2026, the standing charge is subsidised by the Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate according to the average European Dutch level.
Bonaire
For Bonaire, the maximum variable usage rate increases from about USD 0.39/kWh to about USD 0.50/kWh. The maximum pagabon tariff (prepaid) will increase from about USD 0.74/kWh to about USD 0.85/kWh, before application of subsidies on the standing charge. For the consumption of an average household on Bonaire, this means an increase of about USD 27 per month.
St. Eustatius
For St. Eustatius, the maximum variable usage rate increases from about USD 0.33/kWh to about USD 0.38/kWh. For the consumption of an average household on St. Eustatius, this means an increase of about USD 12 per month.
Saba
For Saba, the maximum variable usage rate increases from about USD 0.48/kWh to about USD 0.55/kWh. For the consumption of an average household on Saba, this means an increase of about USD 17 per month.