The planned compulsory purchase of Sark Electricity Limited could start going through court before Christmas.
Chief Pleas had selected an independent valuer, but as that was not accepted by SEL, court action was launched instead.
The Court of the Seneschal has now issued directions to both parties around the process of selecting a valuer, to determine how much money Chief Pleas will have to pay SEL if the compulsory purchase goes through.
SEL now has to file representations with the court by 28 November, with Sark’s Policy & Finance Committee needing to respond by 5 December.
The first court hearing will then be scheduled on the first available date after 10 December.
A spokesperson for Chief Pleas said the government knows how much anxiety this process is already causing for Sark residents. But it has vowed to continue.
“Chief Pleas recognises the significant anxiety and concern that many residents of Sark are experiencing as a result of these issues,” the spokesperson said. “The priority of Chief Pleas remains to bring SEL’s assets into community ownership, ensuring a safe, reliable and affordable electricity supply for the people of Sark.”
Chief Pleas also confirmed it is aware of summonses being issued to SEL customers who. have not paid the legal levies charged against electricity use in September.
“Chief Pleas maintains that these ‘levies’ are neither fair nor reasonable,” said the spokesperson.
“It is the view of Chief Pleas that consumers should only be charged for costs directly related to the generation and distribution of electricity. It is also the view of Chief Pleas that it is not acceptable practice for legal costs to be paid in advance by consumers. Any attempt to enforce payment in court of these ‘levies’ for properties owned by Chief Pleas will be opposed.”