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On Thursday, Robert Mújica, Executive Director of the Financial Oversight and Management Board, expressed his openness to engage in discussions with anyone advocating for the termination of LUMA Energy’s contract. However, he cautioned that the intent of such talks should focus on figuring out “how we proceed” in initiating efforts to ensure repairs and enhancements to Puerto Rico’s energy infrastructure.
“If anyone is interested in having that dialogue, we are ready to consider it … but the reality is we must determine how we advance,” Mujica stated after attending the Hospital Association Convention. “How do we transform that $17 billion into labor, vehicles, and operations in the field? There are numerous hurdles to overcome, including governmental challenges.”
Mújica emphasized the importance of recalling the circumstances that led to the current energy predicament facing the island.
“It was years of mishandling of the energy system, years of inadequate financing … but now we are eager to progress,” he noted. “There are no straightforward answers on how to achieve that.”
“We now need to discern the necessary steps to expedite the investment of funds,” he remarked regarding the federal money set aside for the recovery of the island’s electrical grid. “We possess $17 billion and have utilized only one billion,”
“Altering the contractor won’t necessarily lead to success,” Mujica asserted. “We can discuss that matter and its implications … the consequences of voiding the contract and envisioning what the future might hold post-cancellation.”
Despite identifying “numerous government representatives” as impediments, Mújica confirmed the board’s readiness to work alongside the upcoming government administration, as both parties share common objectives.
“We will collaborate with whoever becomes the next governor …” he stated. “The board will remain in place, but I believe we all share the same vision: to enhance the lives and prospects of Puerto Rico’s citizens. This is our mission, and if it aligns with that of the next governor, I see no reason not to work together towards achieving this objective.”
“There may be moments of disagreement, but we can resolve those differences and make progress,” the oversight board representative added. “That would be the most beneficial outcome for Puerto Rico.”
