Despite the record spending, Lewis stated he expects the fuel surcharge for the upcoming month of August to be lower than the current rate. He shared that he is “very hopeful” that the surcharge seen this month will be the highest for the remainder of the year. Addressing public concern over how these costs are passed to consumers, Lewis emphasized that the fuel surcharge is not arbitrary. He explained that while the fuel surcharge covers the cost of diesel, Vinlec’s base rate is under stress from rising shipping, material, and equipment costs. “There are no discounts to staff for electricity in Vinlec,” Lewis stated, confirming that every employee faces the full electricity bill just like any other citizen.