Amman, Jan 12 (Petra) — The Lower House Energy Committee secured a two-month grace period for electricity bill payments following negotiations with sector regulators on Sunday, addressing mounting concerns over residential power disconnections.

Under the new agreement announced during a committee session, consumers will have two months to settle bills up to JD75 from their issue date, Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission (EMRC) Chief Ziad Saaydeh told lawmakers.

Residents of Aqaba and Jordan Valley will receive similar terms based on consumption patterns.

“Power disconnections directly impact citizens’ lives and require transparent solutions balancing service sustainability with consumer protection,” Committee Chairman Haitham Ziadeen said during the session, which focused on developing clear disconnection protocols.

The regulator agreed to several key measures:
– No power cuts on Thursdays or holidays
– One-week SMS notification before any disconnection
– New installment plans for accumulated bills
– Protection for property owners from tenant unpaid bills when formal lease agreements exist

The meeting, attended by 14 MPs, addressed broader sector challenges including smart meter rollout impacts.

Saaydeh assured that bill collectors would retain employment as utilities complete smart meter installation by year-end.

“This agreement reflects our joint commitment to improve energy services while considering economic conditions,” Ziadeen said, emphasizing the need for special consideration of humanitarian cases.

MPs called for transparent disconnection procedures and flexible payment terms, particularly given current economic pressures on households. The committee continues to monitor implementation of the new measures.

//Petra// AA
12/01/2025 20:09:34