PUC Proposes New 2026 Electricity Licensing Rules in Sector Overhaul

The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is proposing new electricity licensing regulations for 2026 that would replace the current S.I. 39 of 2024 and significantly update how electricity licenses are issued and managed in Belize. According to the PUC, the new regulations modernize the system by introducing new license categories, simplifying the application process, and updating fees to make them more consistent and fairer. The proposal also maintains key features that support renewable energy integration. If approved, the changes would directly affect all existing electricity licensees, who will be required to apply under the new rules once their current licenses expire. This includes BEL, independent power producers, renewable energy developers, and any business or individual operating private generation systems above 75 kilowatts. It will also impact new investors entering the electricity sector, companies offering storage or distributed energy services, and community micro-grid projects. Smaller systems below 75 kW remain exempt. The full draft of the regulations outlines a more structured licensing framework governing generation, transmission, distribution, supply, and consent requirements for new facilities and transmission lines.  Current license holders may continue operating until their licenses expire, after which they must apply under the 2026 regulations. The public has until December 19, to submit comments to the PUC.