(CNN) - Puerto Rico Gov. Ricardo Rosselló said on Monday, the move to privatize power will modernize power generation, making it cheaper and much more efficient for citizens.
He added that the improved infrastructure will respond better to natural disasters.
The 18-month process will begin in the next few days, according to Rosselló,
San Juan Mayor Carmen Yulin Cruz, who criticized the Trump administration's response to Hurricane Maria, opposed the move.
Cruz fears the move will cause the power authority to focus on priorities other than serving the people of Puerto Rico.
This comes four months after Hurricane Maria devastated the island.
About 36 percent of electric utility customers are still without power.
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