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PHILIPSBURG — Several hundred residents took to the streets on Monday in what organizers described as a peaceful demonstration against rising electricity costs, the controversial fuel clause, and ongoing concerns about transparency at NV GEBE.
According to estimates reported by St. Maarten News Online, approximately 300 people participated in the march itself, while another 200 residents gathered at NV GEBE’s headquarters to witness the presentation of a petition to the utility company’s management.
The demonstration was organized by the Association Consumer Protection St. Maarten (ACP-SXM), led by President Peggy-Ann Dros, who has become one of the most visible public advocates calling for greater accountability regarding electricity tariffs and the fuel clause charged to consumers.
The march concluded at NV GEBE’s main office, where ACP SXM representatives, accompanied by members of their legal team, formally handed over a petition to Temporary Manager, Mrs. Iris Arrindell. The petition reportedly outlines a series of concerns regarding the utility company’s tariff structure, fuel clause calculations, transparency, and the financial burden being experienced by households and businesses across St. Maarten.
The demonstration comes at a time when public frustration over utility costs remains high. In recent months, consumers have expressed concern over increases in the fuel clause, which is charged in addition to the base electricity tariff and fluctuates based on fuel costs incurred in electricity generation.
The issue has become one of the most discussed public policy topics on the island, generating debate in Parliament, within Government, and throughout the wider community. Questions have also been raised regarding the findings of the independent evaluation of electricity and potable water tariffs commissioned by Government and released in 2025.
Throughout the march, participants carried signs and voiced concerns about affordability, particularly for seniors, low-income families, and small businesses already struggling with the high cost of living. Many participants indicated that utility costs have become one of their largest monthly expenses.
Organizers described the event as a citizens’ movement rather than a political demonstration. ACP SXM emphasized that its objective is to ensure that consumers receive fair treatment and that all tariff calculations are independently reviewed and fully transparent.
The peaceful nature of the march was noted by both participants and observers. There were no reports of disturbances, and attendees were able to gather at NV GEBE’s premises without incident.
The presentation of the petition to Temporary Manager Arrindell marks what ACP SXM hopes will be the beginning of a more formal dialogue between consumers and the utility company. Organizers have indicated that they expect a substantive response to the concerns raised in the petition and intend to continue advocating on behalf of consumers.
The demonstration also highlights the growing level of public engagement surrounding energy policy in St. Maarten. What was once considered a technical utility issue has increasingly become a kitchen-table concern affecting nearly every household on the island.
Whether Monday’s turnout ultimately translates into policy changes remains to be seen. However, the size of the crowd and the level of public interest suggest that energy affordability has emerged as one of the most significant social and economic issues currently facing the country.
For ACP SXM, the petition represents the first step in what may become a longer campaign for reform. For many residents who participated in the march, it was an opportunity to send a clear message that the cost of electricity and the transparency of utility billing can no longer be ignored.
As Government, Parliament, NV GEBE, regulators, and consumer advocates continue discussions on the future of electricity pricing, Monday’s demonstration has added another important voice to the national conversation.
Related links:
Watch the Live videos of the march on St. Maarten News Online on Facebook>>>
How Rising Energy Costs Impact Households in St. Maarten
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