Government, GEBE sign agreements for three Cay Bay generators

The Government of St. Maarten and N.V. GEBE have signed purchase and lease agreements for three generators at GEBE’s Cay Bay power plant, with combined capacity of about 27 megawatts. The Government said the agreements, alongside GEBE’s equipment-supply and construction contracts with Wärtsilä, move the project into implementation.

Under the arrangements, the Government will finance two generators, related equipment and services, then own and lease those assets to GEBE. GEBE will operate and maintain them. Prime Minister Dr. Luc F. E. Mercelina said the project followed blackouts and load-shedding schedules that affected households, businesses and essential services.

The Government said the Netherlands is supporting the project through a loan for the generator acquisition and a grant for preparation and implementation. GEBE will lead implementation, while the Ministry of Public Housing, Spatial Planning, Environment and Infrastructure, VROMI, will coordinate the Government’s role and continue concession oversight. The work still includes contractual requirements, permits, site preparation, equipment supply, installation and commissioning.