MP Francisco Lacroes urges transition to LNG for NV GEBE

GREAT BAY--Member of Parliament Francisco Lacroes has renewed his call for St. Maarten to transition its energy infrastructure to Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), emphasizing that the island risks being left behind as its regional counterparts make significant progress in cleaner and more cost-effective energy production.

Lacroes pointed to the successes in Curaçao and Aruba as models St. Maarten can learn from. Curaçao’s Aqualectra utility company has partnered with Wärtsilä and Eagle LNG Partners to supply LNG for electricity and water generation. The initiative forms part of a broader sustainability strategy that integrates battery storage and renewable energy, with the goal of increasing renewable capacity from 30% to 70% by 2027.

Aruba has also been ahead in this area. Since 2017, Water en Energiebedrijf Aruba N.V. (WEB) has been transitioning to LNG in collaboration with Wärtsilä, establishing a 194 MW dual-fuel power generation fleet and moving forward with plans to construct an LNG import terminal in San Nicolas.

Lacroes, who has previously proposed exploring LNG for G.E.B.E. in Parliament, underscored the need for leadership and accountability to ensure progress.

“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.”

The MP expressed frustration that despite the motion being approved and Prime Minister Mercelina assigned to lead the transition, there have been no public updates on the process.

“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.”

Lacroes also drew attention to missed opportunities for St. Maarten in the maritime sector. He noted that Port SXM’s inability to accommodate LNG-powered vessels has caused lucrative transshipment activities to bypass the island entirely. However, he added that recent developments have positioned St. Maarten to correct course.

According to Lacroes, a comprehensive plan has already been submitted to the Government. The proposal outlines a modern transshipment port that could generate significant revenue for both the St. Maarten Port and the Government, strengthening financial stability while advancing national goals such as lowering electricity costs and supporting the annual budget.

He reminded that the parliamentary motion’s objective had already received majority approval during the budget discussions, meaning there are no obstacles preventing its implementation.

“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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