The Government of Belize has initiated a groundbreaking public share offering for Hydro Belize Limited, marking a significant milestone in national energy sector democratization. Starting December 18, 2025, Belizean citizens will have the unprecedented opportunity to acquire ownership stakes in the nation’s critical hydroelectric infrastructure, comprising the Mollejon, Chalillo, and Vaca power facilities along the Macal River.
This transformative initiative follows the government’s recent acquisition of these assets from Canadian utility Fortis Inc. The offering presents 50% of Hydro Belize’s total shares exclusively to the Belizean public at $29 per share, representing a total valuation of $119 million. Prime Minister John Briceño emphasized this strategic move enhances national energy security while enabling citizens to participate directly in essential economic infrastructure.
The initial 30-day offering period prioritizes individual investors, including teachers, military personnel, and ordinary citizens seeking investment opportunities. The remaining 50% government-held shares will subsequently become available to institutional investors, including the Social Security Board and credit unions, pending regulatory approval from the Financial Services Commission.
Prime Minister Briceño characterized the offering as a deliberate wealth distribution mechanism, stating: ‘We want the Belizean public to benefit from these shares. This represents a conscious effort to democratize ownership of national assets while strengthening our energy independence.’ The tiered investment approach ensures primary access for individual citizens before expanding to institutional participants, creating a unique model of public-private asset management in the Caribbean region.