SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Member of Parliament (MP) Francisco Lacroes is calling for immediate action to transition St. Maarten's energy infrastructure to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), following the successful steps taken by Curaçao and Aruba to adopt cleaner and more cost-effective fuel sources.
Curaçao's Aqualectra utility company has teamed up with Wärtsilä and Eagle LNG Partners to provide LNG for electricity and water production. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to reduce carbon emissions, including the integration of battery storage and renewable energy, aiming to increase renewable capacity from 30% to 70% by 2027.
Similarly, Aruba's Water en Energiebedrijf Aruba N.V. (WEB) has been transitioning to LNG since 2017. In collaboration with Wärtsilä, WEB has established a 194 MW dual-fuel power generation fleet and is progressing with plans for an LNG import terminal in San Nicolas.
MP Lacroes, who previously proposed exploring LNG for G.E.B.E. in Parliament, stressed the importance of strong leadership and accountability. "Congratulations to Aqualectra," Lacroes remarked. "I aspire to achieve the same with our own water and energy company G.E.B.E. here in St. Maarten."
Despite the motion being approved and Prime Minister Mercelina being assigned to lead the transition, there have been no public updates. Lacroes expressed serious concerns about the lack of progress and the ongoing burden on residents.
"If the board and management are unable to deliver, it is time for them to be replaced," Lacroes declared. "Our people can no longer endure the fuel surcharge and hidden fees on our bills."
The MP also pointed out missed opportunities in St. Maarten, such as Port SXM's inability to accommodate LNGpowered ships, leading to significant transshipment activities bypassing the island. However, recent developments have positioned St. Maarten to change course.
Lacroes revealed that a detailed plan has been presented to the Government, outlining a clear strategy to establish a modern transshipment port. This port will generate substantial revenue for both the Sint Maarten Port and the Government, bolstering the island's financial stability and supporting national priorities like reducing electricity costs and supplementing the annual budget.
Furthermore, Lacroes highlighted that the parliamentary motion's objective was approved during the budget discussions by a majority vote, with no obstacles hindering the progress this can successfully accomplished.
"The foundation has been laid, the path is set, and the possibilities are vast," Lacroes stated. "The time for decisive leadership is now. The region is advancing, and St. Maarten must not lag behind while our people suffer to benefit a privileged few."
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