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Basseterre, St. Kitts – February 7, 2025 – Outspoken community leader and PLP Central Basseterre Chairman Dameon Lawrence has launched a scathing critique of the PM Drew administration’s energy policy, accusing the government of failing to deliver on its promises of renewable energy while burdening the nation with hundreds of millions in debt.

In his statement titled “Bad Frequency,” Lawrence highlighted what he sees as hypocrisy and financial mismanagement, pointing to the administration’s rhetoric on renewable energy while making major financial commitments to fossil fuel projects.

“In recent hosting of the Third Council of the OECS Ministers of Energy, there was constant reference to the importance of renewables energy options. A few months back they celebrated energy month by wearing rough dry clothes. The theme for that month was accelerating the transition to renewable energy. Both the Prime Minister and Minister of Energy echoed these words while being responsible for the following,” Lawrence declared.

A Costly Commitment to Fossil Fuels

Lawrence outlined several financial decisions made by the administration, which he says contradict their push for renewable energy:

• Failure to deliver a signed agreement for an investor-funded 18MW renewable energy project.
• Rental of used 6MW generators at a cost of XCD $10.5 million per year.
• Sourcing of a XCD $108 million loan for an 18MW dual-fuel power plant.
• Guaranteeing XCD $18 million for meters to measure diesel-powered energy.

He noted that these decisions have led to XCD $136.5 million being spent on fossil fuel energy, which the country was supposedly transitioning away from.

Ballooning National Debt

According to Lawrence, the recent announcement of geothermal funding is likely tied to a previously secured XCD $810 million loan, with $400 million earmarked for geothermal development.

“That takes the debt bomb to an alarming XCD $536 million in just two and a half years. They will claim all this was for our good. But what good is it to make something we can’t afford?” he questioned.

Lawrence further warned that commercial electricity customers are already feeling the pinch after the removal of the Customs Service Charge (CFV), which he says has increased operational costs.

“Good for Themselves”

The PLP chairman accused the administration of prioritizing their own interests rather than the needs of the people.

“They are fixed on the good they can do – for themselves. What do we anticipate our situation to be after all the ‘good’ they are doing for us? Increased costs and restricted access.”

His remarks add to growing discontent over the administration’s energy policy, as concerns mount over skyrocketing costs, lack of transparency, and a departure from renewable energy commitments.

What’s Next?

As public frustration builds, the Drew administration is expected to face further scrutiny over its energy strategy, especially as businesses and households struggle with rising costs.

Will the government respond to Lawrence’s criticisms, or will concerns over mismanagement and debt continue to fuel political and economic uncertainty?