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Setting Up Service
- To apply, you’ll need:
o TRN (Tax Registration Number).
o Government-issued ID (passport or Jamaican driver’s licence).
o Proof of address (utility bill, lease, or letter from a Justice of the Peace).
o Deposit (refundable after 2 years, varies by usage).
Tip: If you’re moving into a newly built home, insist on an electrical certificate signed by a licensed
electrician before JPS connects your meter.
Reliability & Costs
- Power costs in Jamaica are among the highest in the Caribbean, driven by oil imports.
- Bills fluctuate with the Fuel & IPP charge.
- Outages can occur during storms or routine maintenance.
Average Bills (2025):
- 1 - bedroom apt: $12,000–$18,000 JMD/month.
- 3 - bedroom house with AC: $25,000–$45,000 JMD/month.
- Large villa with pool: $60,000+ JMD/month.
Backups: Many homes now use solar panels, inverters, and batteries. The upfront cost is high, but
savings and reliability pay off.
Section 2 – Water & Waste Management
Provider: National Water Commission (NWC)
- Supplies piped water and sewage services across Jamaica.
- Application requires TRN, ID, proof of address, and a deposit.
Challenges
- Water lock-offs (planned or emergency) are common.
- Some rural areas suffer from low pressure or no regular supply.
Tip: If you’re settling outside Kingston or Montego Bay, invest in a black plastic tank (400–1,000
gallons) and a water pump. This gives independence during outages.
Waste Disposal
- Managed by the National Solid Waste Management Authority (NSWMA).
- Collection is once or twice a week, depending on area.