Reply: At the very outset, I have to inform the hon. Member that it is incorrect to say that there are recurrent power cuts across the island. The Central Electricity Board has informed that power cuts are of two types: planned outages or unplanned outages. Planned outages are those which are scheduled and communicated in advance to allow for maintenance, repairs, or upgrading works aimed at ensuring long-term reliability and safety of the electricity supply. Unplanned outages are those which occur due to faults on the network, such as sudden equipment failures, and can also result from adverse weather conditions or other unforeseen incidents. Recent interruptions in certain areas have been linked to essential maintenance, equipment faults, and adverse weather conditions. In cases of unplanned power cuts, standby emergency crews, operating 24/7 and strategically deployed across the island, intervene promptly to restore supply in the shortest possible time. To minimise both the frequency and duration of outages, the CEB is actively pursuing the following measures, namely network reinforcement, preventive maintenance and infrastructure development. I seize this opportunity to inform the House that the forthcoming summer season will be challenging for the Central Electricity Board in view of increasing electricity consumption and limited reserve margins. My Ministry has worked on a national energy efficiency campaign to sensitise the public on the importance of energy saving and energy efficiency through the media and other communication channels. I appeal to the general public to adopt energy saving practices, particularly during evening peak period between 6 p.m. to 9.30 p.m.

154 PORT-LOUIS NORTH SSS – STUDENT/TEACHING STAFF RATIO