The Utility Regulation and Competition Office (URCO) today issued a Regulatory Statement and Consumer Guide to clarify the existing legal position for customer self-consumption systems in the Cayman Islands. The Statement does not create new rights, obligations or regulatory requirements; it simply explains how the law already applies to behind-the-meter solar PV and battery storage systems used by consumers for their own use without export to the grid. The purpose of the Statement is to give consumers, installers and licensees clear and practical guidance, while highlighting consumer protection, energy efficiency and a diversified energy mix. URCO said the clarification is intended to remove uncertainty and help ensure that consumers, licensees and relevant government agencies understand the framework that already governs these systems. The Statement confirms that consumers may lawfully install and operate non-export self consumption systems for their own use, and that such systems do not require a separate export-and-credit programme where no electricity is being exported to the grid. It also explains that the relevant legal and technical requirements already exist in the applicable statutes, licences, codes and safety standards. “Consumers should have clarity about the rights they already have under the law,” said Sonji Myles, Interim Chief Executive Officer of URCO. “This Statement does not create anything new. It confirms the existing legal position, supports consumer protection, and highlights that self-consumption and energy efficiency are an expected parts of a cleaner and more resilient energy future for Cayman.” Chairman Samuel “Sammy” Jackson said the Board approves the publication because it brings clarity and certainty to the existing legal position. “This Statement simply sets out what the law already provides,” he said. “It gives consumers, installers and licensees clear guidance, supports responsible energy efficiency, and helps ensure the system works fairly and transparently for everyone.” URCO also said the guidance helps clarify the limited role of inspection and approval authorities. Where inspections are required, their purpose is to confirm compliance with established safety and technical standards; they do not create a broader power to block lawful self-consumption or impose requirements beyond those standards. Such activities may prove unlawful. The Office said the Statement supports Cayman’s sustainability objectives by recognising the system-wide benefits of reduced fuel use, lower commercial energy demand and improved resilience. It added that consumer self-consumption aligns with the wider public push for energy efficiency and responsible energy use. URCO described the publication as part of its commitment to remain a proactive and responsive regulator that listens to concerns, clarifies the law where needed, and acts in the public interest. The Office said it will continue to work with stakeholders to ensure the regulatory framework remains clear, lawful and supportive of Cayman’s greener future. A copy of the Regulatory Statement is attached and can also be found on the Office’s website here: https://www.ofreg.ky/news/regulator-statement-of-current-legal-position regarding-customer-self-consumption-systems