I submit that we clearly do not understand the inner workings of the Jamaica Public Service (JPS) which is why we believe it does not deserve this increase. I, however, have a small insight as to its marvellous machinery as I made a valiant attempt to conserve energy over the summer, turning off my power strip dutifully every morning before I go to work, and dispatching the children to their aunt's for the entire summer.

JPS, in its wisdom, estimated the bill during this period and wisely calculated I would have used 34 more kWh than the previous period of non-conservation. Naturally, I was livid and called the office boasting my conservation techniques and I was assured that all would be revealed when my meter was read next cycle. And voilà! I received my bill via email (told you they were high tech) and sure enough, the estimate was an excellent projection of my future usage! What utter brilliance!

Yes, I am being sarcastic because I feel sick to my stomach, frustrated and beaten, abused and outwitted and totally helpless. But, alas! This utility company knows my weaknesses; that I love when the fan blows away the mosquitoes, I love to keep connected to the World Wide Web and, regrettably, I love the use of my refrigerator. So it will continue to abuse me, and I will pay, relatively on time and double up on the antacids and the Office of Utilities Regulation (OUR)? Well, the OUR has larger issues than little old me.

I am, etc.,

RUTH TYSON

Kingston 19