Prime Minister Dr. Luc Mercelina has made it clear that the government’s immediate focus is stabilizing Sint Maarten’s electricity supply, not transitioning to liquefied natural gas (LNG) at this time. He made the statement during Question Hour in Parliament, responding to questions from MP Francisco Lacroes on fuel diversification and energy strategy.
The Prime Minister explained that government has not requested a full fuel diversification plan from NV GEBE or Port St. Maarten Group, stressing that the priority is ensuring reliable and consistent electricity for residents and businesses. While both entities were asked to share perspectives on diversification, no LNG feasibility studies or tenders have been initiated.
Mercelina noted that studies show small-scale LNG is currently costly and infrastructure-intensive, making it impractical under present conditions. Instead, government is focused on securing additional generation capacity, expected to stabilize power supply for the next five to ten years, alongside increased solar investments.
He also confirmed that steps are being taken to enforce tariff regulation, ensuring electricity prices remain affordable and cost-based. The Prime Minister emphasized that renewable and alternative energy will remain part of the long-term vision—but only after grid stability is secured.
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