El Salvador Government Pays Free Water & E:ectricity Bills to Relieve Citizens' Economic Burden

Written By : Priscilla Boakye

In a significant move to alleviate economic hardship among its citizens, the government of El Salvador, under President Nayib Bukele, announced that it would cover the electricity and water bills for January 2025 for 95% of residential users. This initiative aims to provide financial relief during a period traditionally marked by increased expenses due to the holiday season and the start of the school year. The government will cover electricity bills up to $80, including all associated charges such as municipal taxes and surcharges. Water bills from the National Administration of Aqueducts and Sewers (ANDA) will also be covered, provided the total does not exceed $30. If the bills surpass these amounts, the government will not provide coverage.  

President Bukele emphasized that this benefit is automatic, requiring no additional procedures from citizens. This relief measure is exclusively for households and does not extend to businesses, commercial establishments, government entities, or shopping centers. The initiative is part of the broader Plan to Recover the Economy in El Salvador, which began in July 2024 with the elimination of tariffs on food and agricultural products. The plan’s second phase focuses on technological development.  

In addition to the utility bill relief, the government is providing school supplies, uniforms, shoes, computers, and tablets to all public school children. President Bukele expressed hope that these measures will ease the economic strain on households, especially with the additional costs that come with Christmas and school expenses. He reaffirmed his commitment to both the financial stability of the population and the advancement of the country’s education system.