Tinian Ice & Water Co. cuts production to daytime as fuel costs bite

Tinian Ice & Water Co. has begun limiting production of purified water and ice to daytime hours, citing soaring fuel costs as it continues to run entirely on generators in the aftermath of Super Typhoon Sinlaku.

In a May 4 social media advisory, general manager Liza Power said the move was a difficult decision driven by the expense of round-the-clock generator use.

“This will significantly reduce the quantity available,” she said, urging customers to conserve as the company absorbs all operating costs to keep supplying the island.

Power then told Marianas Press the company remains the only fully operational purified ice and water provider on Tinian since the storm. It has been producing clean water and bagged ice using its own generators and fuel, without external assistance.

Store hours will remain unchanged, but production will be scaled back. Power said running generators 24/7 is not sustainable long-term, prompting the shift to daytime-only operations until commercial power is restored or outside help arrives.

The impact is immediate—ice production is expected to drop by about 50%, from a daily output of roughly 400 to 500 bags. Water supply will be less affected, with an estimated 25% reduction, as the reverse osmosis system can continue filling holding tanks during regular working hours.

Power noted that while hospitals, emergency services, and critical infrastructure are prioritized for federal generator and fuel assistance, it remains unclear how decisions are made on the ground.

The company also reported no significant damage to its building or production equipment following the onslaught of Sinlaku.

Power expressed gratitude to customers and employees, many of whom are housed by the company.

“They’re just happy to come to work and be productive,” she said, adding that she feels “very grateful and blessed” for her team.

The company has also taken part in community relief efforts, partnering with World Central Kitchen and Team KOKA to distribute free ice and water over the weekend. It continues to support government agencies and private businesses with water deliveries.

Power emphasized the company’s commitment to maintaining access to essential resources. “We are committed to doing everything we can to maintain access for the community of Tinian,” she said, asking for patience as operations adjust to ongoing challenges.