The Antigua Public Utilities Authority (APUA) is preparing to make 110-volt electricity available to households and businesses across the country, marking one of the most significant changes to the nation’s power infrastructure in decades.
Utilities Minister Melford Nicholas announced the initiative during a press briefing last Friday, revealing that the rollout will begin in 2026 and continue until every consumer who desires 110-volt service has access to it.
According to Nicholas, the decision follows persistent public calls for greater flexibility in voltage options, particularly as a growing number of appliances imported into Antigua and Barbuda are designed for the U.S. market and require 110 volts.
“Most of our homes still run entirely on 220 volts, and people have had to rely on multiple step-down transformers to use common household appliances,” he explained. “Some even install a single large transformer to convert their entire house. We want to move away from that. Over the next few years, APUA will transition the system so that 110 power becomes readily available.”
The conversion, expected to span three to five years, will require collaboration between the utility and consumers.
Nicholas noted that some households may need internal electrical adjustments and said APUA will guide consumers through the process. He warned that the widespread use of transformers not only increases electricity costs but can also elevate fire risks, especially in older wooden structures.
Meanwhile APUA Electricity Business Manager Andre Matthias said the country’s current 220-volt standard is a remnant of its British colonial past, when most appliances were sourced from the United Kingdom. Today, he said, the reality is different.
“With the majority of appliances now coming from the United States or other countries that operate on 110 volts, offering this option is simply practical,” Matthias said.
He added that APUA is considering establishing a consumer advisory team to offer technical guidance during the transition, though the team will not perform any installations.
Nicholas stressed that the initiative represents a long-term modernization effort and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to completing the nationwide conversion.
