Residents voice frustration, survival strategies as CUC eyes another FAC hike

As the Commonwealth Utilities Corp. pushes for another 20-cent increase in its Fuel Adjustment Charge following last May 15’s approved hike, Saipan residents told Marianas Press they are already struggling to cope with rising power costs while still recovering from Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

Interviewed at Marianas Business Plaza and the American Memorial Park pickleball courts, community members shared concerns ranging from household survival to questions over the legality and management of the proposed increase.

Jerry Soriano said another increase would put additional strain on families already living paycheck to paycheck.

“Oh, it’s no good because our salary is not enough for the bills,” Soriano said. “That’s why it’s bad for us.”

Soriano said his household has already started cutting back by using a butane gas stove to cook their meals instead of an electric stove.

“Better help the community for going down the power,” he added in a message to government and CUC officials.

Joseph Muna Mendiola questioned both the legality of the proposed increase and CUC’s financial management.

“This is wrong because the executive order of the governor says that there shall be no raises in any shape, form, or figure,” Mendiola said. “CUC should run after the government agency that holds them in the millions and millions rather than the regular rate payers.”

He also called for an independent audit of the utility.

“There should be an independent general audit entirely,” he said. “We’re the highest rate payers anywhere in the United States.”

Lilia King said her family has aggressively reduced electricity use in anticipation of higher bills.

“I rather use my solar lights at night and then use my solar fan during the night and day,” King said. “I want to see how much is going to be our billing without the aircon.”

King said her family now relies on solar lighting and fans, uses butane for cooking, and has even shut off their freezer to conserve energy.

Ray Austin said residents may have to drastically cut consumption just to maintain the same monthly budget.

“We have to cut out 43% of the usage in order to try to balance our budgets and stay alive,” Austin said.

Austin added that the CNMI should move faster toward renewable energy solutions such as solar, wind, and even geothermal energy.

“I think if the CNMI has enough willpower, they can overcome this,” he said.

Feel Kalen bluntly described the proposed increase as unfair during a time when many residents are still rebuilding after the typhoon.

“Come on, man. Give us a break,” Kalen said. “It’s typhoon, and we’re all trying to rebuild our home, our island. So give us a break on their prices.”

Kalen said he has already reduced air-conditioning use and unplugged appliances such as his Xbox to lower electricity consumption.