Electric service is inherently subject to interruption and to change in its normal characteristics from time to time as a result of storms, operating conditions, acts of God, accidents, lightning strikes, for the purpose of making permanent or temporary repairs, or for improvements to the system.
In instances where we can demonstrate that a power outage experienced by a customer that resulted in damage to their property was the result of GBPC error, then the customer may be eligible for compensation.
Our Policy
GBPC is not responsible for damages that we do not cause or that are the result of forces beyond our control. Generally we are not responsible for damages resulting from third party actions, voltage fluctuations or property damage caused by weather-related conditions (such as lightning, floods, extreme storms, heat or winds) or other acts of nature.
The power voltage provided to a customer’s residence is subject to a +/- 5% variation due to load conditions. The residence can also be impacted by transient voltage that can last a few milliseconds and includes voltage spikes or surges caused by lightning or switching loads (e.g. startup of a customer’s air conditioner). Well over 80% of all transient voltages are generated on the customers’ premises by their electrical equipment.
The magnitude of the transient voltage and whether or not it causes damage depends on several factors. These include the amount of load switched, the point at which switching occurs, equipment design, integrity of wiring connections and grounding system, and adequacy of equipment protection. Grand Bahama Power does not accept responsibility for damage caused by transient voltages. Customers are expected to take appropriate steps to protect their assets that might be affected by power fluctuations. When power is off or flickering frequently it’s a good practice to disable sensitive electronic devices. Relatively inexpensive methods of protection include industry rated surge protectors or an uninterruptible power supply (UPS).
We evaluate food spoilage complaints based on the recommended guidelines from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. If kept closed, a fully stocked freezer will usually keep food frozen for two days after losing power; a half-full freezer will usually keep food frozen about one day. In the refrigerator, food will usually keep cold up to four hours if the door remains unopened.
There may be situations in which GBPC is only partially responsible for a loss. In those cases, we will pay the portion for which we determine we are responsible.
Claims Procedure
Customers are responsible to:
- submit damage claims within fifteen working days of the related power disruption;
- provide purchase receipts or estimates for repair or replacement of damaged equipment;
- maintain damaged items until a GBPC’s claims inspector has had an opportunity to perform an inspection;
- ensure their residence is properly grounded;
- take reasonable precautions to protect their assets (e.g. unplug equipment , use surge protector, etc. ) from damage during power disturbances.
GBPC will respond to claims within six weeks after the receipt of the completed form with required documentation.