The Central Electricity Board (CEB) of Mauritius has announced that there will be no new hike in electricity prices, despite facing significant pressure due to a substantial increase in the cost of heavy fuel oil. According to Thierry Ramasawmy, the CEB's communication officer, the decision was made to alleviate concerns among consumers. The CEB has been dealing with a considerable rise in fuel costs, which has impacted its production expenses.
The CEB's fuel expenses have surged between January and September 2026, with approximately Rs 6.87 billion spent on heavy fuel oil, compared to Rs 5.88 billion during the same period in 2025. This increase has raised concerns about potential price hikes in the future. However, the CEB has assured consumers that no price increase is planned at this stage. The board is instead focusing on promoting responsible electricity consumption, especially with the approaching summer season when demand typically rises.
The CEB has a current stockpile of 47,472 metric tons of heavy fuel oil, which translates to around 52 to 59 days of autonomy. To maintain its reserves, an additional shipment of 26,000 metric tons is expected to arrive on October 20, originating from Spain and transiting through South Africa. This upcoming shipment aims to bolster the CEB's fuel reserves and mitigate potential future price hikes.
The CEB's pricing strategy has been influenced by its efforts to balance the increased cost of fuel with the need to maintain affordable electricity tariffs for consumers. The board has emphasized the importance of responsible consumption, urging the public to conserve energy. This approach is part of the CEB's efforts to manage the impact of rising fuel costs on its operations.
The situation at the CEB reflects the broader challenges faced by electricity providers in managing fuel costs and maintaining stable tariffs. As a key player in Mauritius' energy sector, the CEB's strategies and decisions have a direct impact on the country's electricity supply and pricing. The board's ability to manage these pressures will be crucial in determining future electricity costs for consumers.
The CEB's announcement has provided temporary relief to consumers, who might have been concerned about potential price hikes. However, the board's ongoing efforts to manage fuel costs and maintain stable tariffs will continue to be closely watched. The CEB's communication officer, Thierry Ramasawmy, has reiterated the importance of responsible energy consumption, especially during periods of high demand.
As the CEB continues to navigate the challenges posed by rising fuel costs, its focus on promoting energy conservation and efficient consumption will remain a key strategy. The board's efforts to balance the need for stable tariffs with the realities of increasing fuel costs will be essential in maintaining a stable electricity supply in Mauritius.
Key points
- The CEB has spent approximately Rs 6.87 billion on heavy fuel oil between January and September 2026.
- The CEB has a current stockpile of 47,472 metric tons of heavy fuel oil.
- An additional shipment of 26,000 metric tons of heavy fuel oil is expected to arrive on October 20.
