Utilities may not be at the forefont of everyone’s minds, but those working in these sectors keep us safe and connected
Two of Sint Maarten’s utility providers, TELEM and NV GEBE which offer telecommunications and water and electricity services respectively, explain how the island is future-proofing itself for quality, price and sustainability.
For over 25 years, TELEM has been at the forefront of telecommunications in Sint Maarten, offering a full range of services, including mobile, fixed-line, television and high-speed international connectivity. As the island’s only locally owned telecom provider, TELEM is dedicated to keeping residents, businesses and visitors connected with cutting-edge technology and reliable service. “Right now, we are introducing a new mobile system and a new internet core,” says TELEM’s former CEO, Kendall Dupersoy, adding that “by the end of this year, the entire internet backbone connecting households will be completely new, and we are actively working toward the launch of our 5G network in the near future.”
It is a member of CANATO, a nonprofit association of telephone operating companies in the Caribbean, which brings together telecommunication players from the region and government ministers, vendors and others. One of its key discussion points at the moment is that travelers use their phones for almost everything — from Google to Facebook to Netflix — yet those global giants do not pay for the considerable bandwidth they use. CANATO wants to generate revenue from this so that operators can keep expanding.
One of the most significant recent developments has been the repair of the Sint Maarten-Puerto Rico Network One submarine cable that runs between the two territories and was damaged in 2016. “This allows us to bring more bandwidth and better internet service at a lower cost to our customers,” explains Dupersoy. “Our goal is to ensure that people get better internet without an increase in price,” he emphasizes. TELEM is also investing in resilience to ensure uninterrupted connectivity during natural disasters. “After Hurricane Irma, we rebuilt with stronger, hurricane-resistant infrastructure,” he says. “Our central offices are now bunkers and our cables are underground, ensuring that within 12 to 24 hours of a major storm, we can restore connectivity to the island.”
For investors, TELEM provides a seamless digital foundation to support business growth. “We have a very modern telecommunications network with connectivity across the island,” he notes. “Sint Maarten is not just a paradise for tourists but also a prime location for business, thanks to easy global travel and a business-friendly environment.” With innovations in automation, AI and smart home technologies on the horizon, TELEM is committed to enhancing digital experiences and expanding its services. For residents, tourists, or businesses, TELEM ensures Sint Maarten remains connected, competitive and future-ready.
NV GEBE keeps the lights on
As Sint Maarten’s sole electricity and water supplier, NV GEBE plays a crucial role in the island’s growth and infrastructure. “NV GEBE ranks as the 11th lowest in electricity rates among Caribbean utility providers,” boasts Troy Washington, the utility provider’s former CEO, ensuring competitive pricing for both residents and businesses. With a focus on balancing operational costs and service reliability, NV GEBE continuously explores ways to enhance efficiency and sustainability. Community engagement is a major priority for the company. Initiatives such as the installation of safety streetlights across the island have contributed to crime prevention and public security. The company is also transitioning from overhead to underground cabling, strengthening the resilience of the electrical network against hurricanes. Additionally, investments in advanced glass-infused water storage tanks improve water quality and durability, ensuring long-term reliability.
Sustainability is at the heart of NV GEBE’s vision, but perfecting it is tricky. “Wind power is a great renewable option in many regions but Sint Maarten’s location in the hurricane belt presents significant challenges. Wind turbines require costly reinforcements to withstand extreme weather conditions, making them a less cost-effective choice,” explains Washington. Solar power looks to be the way forward, however, as Washington notes, “we remain fully committed to transitioning towards greener electricity production and are actively exploring opportunities to integrate solar power into our energy mix.” This would include utility-scale solar farms and energy storage systems. NV GEBE welcomes discussions with U.S. investors interested in supporting renewable energy initiatives.
NV GEBE is also preparing for full domestic water production post-2027. “Our extensive operational expertise in water production, combined with strategic infrastructure upgrades, will position Sint Maarten to take full ownership of its water supply,” he highlights, before concluding, “We remain dedicated to powering the island’s progress for generations to come.”