Up to 15 Percent of APUA Meters Not Working
Between 10 and 15 per cent of APUA’s meters are currently not functioning, resulting in some customers receiving estimated bills.
Chief Operating Officer and Acting Chief Executive Officer Roger Tonge disclosed the figure as APUA addressed public complaints about rising utility bills.
Tonge said the authority’s goal is to read every active meter, but estimates must be used when a meter is defective or cannot be accessed.
When calculating an estimated bill, APUA examines the customer’s previous consumption pattern and uses an average based on earlier readings.
Tonge said the authority has an ongoing meter replacement programme aimed at identifying and changing defective units as quickly as possible.
However, he noted that most of the recent complaints referred to him have involved actual meter readings rather than estimates.
Acting Financial Controller Sabrina Benjamin also appealed to customers to ensure meter readers can access their properties.
She said locked gates, aggressive dogs, rubbish and overgrown vegetation frequently prevent employees from reading meters.
In cases where access is not possible, APUA leaves a notice advising the customer to contact the authority.
Benjamin also warned that meter readers should not be threatened or physically confronted while performing their duties.
APUA is investing in automated meters that will eventually allow readings to be transmitted remotely without requiring access to customers’ properties.
This story was first published by Antigua News on August 26, 2026: antigua.news/2026/08/26/up-to-15-percent-of-apua-meters-not-working. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.
About the author
Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.
Read our editorial standards and corrections policy. Spotted an error? Contact the newsroom.
More from Antigua and Barbuda
View section
Hundreds Caught In Miles-Long Gas Lines As Dealers Protest Increased Margins
Motorists are scrambling for fuel as leading service stations shut their pumps for the second time in weeks, while WIOC’s Friars Hill station reportedly remains the only WIOC location still dispensing gasoline.
By Cory Wayland
Four-Country CARICOM Free Movement Scheme Reports 939 Processed as Antigua Maintains Separate Conditions for TCN Transfers
Antigua and Barbuda remains outside the four-country scheme, while proposing strict limits and safeguards for temporary transfers of third-country nationals from the US.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Elderly Man Found Dead Inside Ovals Home
Police are investigating after an elderly man was discovered unresponsive at his home in Ovals on Wednesday morning, with no indication of foul play at this stage.
By Cory Wayland
WATCH: Taxi Operators Call for Proper Policing as Minister Freeland Reviews Concerns in St. John’s
Taxi association representatives say vehicles occupying designated spaces and soliciting cruise passengers are affecting operations around Heritage Quay.
By Shermain Bique-Charles
Comments (3)
Apex Jones August 27, 2026, 7:56 AM
Informed citizen August 27, 2026, 1:14 PM
Well-known August 27, 2026, 1:14 PM