Senate confirms Roselyn Santos Sword to CUC Board to enhance energy solutions

In a recent session of the Northern Marianas Commonwealth Legislature, senators gathered to discuss pressing issues surrounding the Commonwealth Utilities Corporation (CUC) and the appointment of new board members. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as lawmakers expressed their hopes for improved services and collaboration within the utility sector.

Senator Mugovnia opened the dialogue by emphasizing the importance of representing the needs of the community, particularly those facing hardships. He acknowledged the strides made by CUC in enhancing communication regarding power and water outages, while also recognizing the ongoing challenges the corporation faces. "I hope to see the collaboration between yourselves and the other board members as well as CEC's management to see how we can improve the livelihood of our people," he stated, underscoring the need for teamwork in addressing utility issues.

Senator Castro followed, expressing gratitude for the insights shared by the newly appointed board member, Rosemond Santos Sword. He highlighted the significance of her legal background and experience, suggesting that her skills would be crucial in navigating the complexities of utility management. Castro also noted the importance of supporting CUC employees, particularly in maintaining machinery and infrastructure on the islands.

The discussions continued with Senator Cabo echoing sentiments about the critical state of utilities in the Commonwealth. He pointed out the necessity for updates to existing laws to better align with current conditions and to facilitate the integration of renewable energy sources. "We would love to see us look into the criticalness of the upgrades of the machinery in place," he remarked, indicating a collective desire for progress in energy sustainability.

As the meeting progressed, the senators collectively recognized the challenges posed by high power rates and the need for alternative energy solutions. One senator articulated the community's struggles, urging the board to explore viable options that could alleviate the financial burden on residents. "We understand that we cannot just drop it down to the point that CUC will not continue to operate," he cautioned, highlighting the delicate balance between affordability and operational viability.

The session concluded with a sense of optimism as the executive director of CUC expressed eagerness to work alongside the new board member. "We want to welcome Roselyn to our team and look forward to improving our power situation and getting renewables on all three islands," he stated, reinforcing the commitment to enhancing utility services.

As the Northern Marianas Commonwealth Legislature continues to navigate these critical discussions, the focus remains on fostering collaboration and innovation within the utility sector, ensuring that the needs of the community are met with urgency and care.