Minister Maynard Reveals Bold Vision for 2025 After Landmark Achievements in 2024

Minister of Public Infrastructure, Energy, Utilities, Domestic Transport, ICT, and Post, Konris Maynard, has presented a comprehensive review of the sector’s 2024 achievements while charting an ambitious course for 2025.

Speaking at a ministry press conference this week, Maynard underscored the government’s commitment to transforming the St. Kitts and Nevis into a sustainable island state through innovative solutions and strategic investments.

Addressing Persistent Water Challenges

Minister Maynard highlighted the his ministries decisive actions to address long-standing water scarcity issues. In 2024, the water budget was increased by over 400%, enabling critical projects such as:

• The reinstatement of the dormant Water Board and establishment of a 24-hour Water Hotline Service.
• Enhanced infrastructure integration and protection.
• Construction of a solar-powered desalination plant at Canada Industrial Site, producing 70,000 gallons per day.
• Progress on a 2-million-gallon-per-day desalination plant at Paul Southwell Industrial Park.
• New wells and storage facilities significantly improved supply, including a major addition in Cayon.

Minister Maynard affirmed the Dr. Terrance Drew-led administration’s resolve to further upgrade water systems, with plans to drill new wells across key areas and complete the Basseterre desalination plant in 2025.

Advancing Renewable Energy Goals

The energy sector has also seen transformative progress. Among the 2024 highlights were:

• Stabilisation of power generation at the St. Kitts Electricity Company (SKELEC), enabling essential overhauls of overworked generators.
• Preparations for a US$40 million upgrade to the Needsmust Power Plant.
• Collaboration with global partners on the SKN-100 Renewable Energy Project.
• Progress towards 100% renewable energy generation by 2030, with groundwork laid for solar PV and battery energy projects.

In 2025, the ministry will focus on constructing the upgraded Needsmust Power Plant and launching large-scale solar PV and battery energy farms. These developments are integral to realising the Federation’s renewable energy vision.

Building for Sustainability

Looking ahead, the Minister Maynard indicated that the government will also prioritise the development of regulatory frameworks, including new policies for small-scale renewable energy and electric vehicles. He expressed confidence that these initiatives will streamline infrastructure growth while promoting environmental preservation.

“Our administration remains steadfast in delivering a sustainable, resilient future for St. Kitts and Nevis,” Minister Maynard stated. “By modernising infrastructure and embracing innovative solutions, we are building a stronger, greener nation for generations to come.”

He also emphasised the vital contributions of his ministry’s employees in achieving the government’s vision of a sustainable island state.

“I would like to take a moment to extend my deepest gratitude to all the department heads and employees for their unwavering dedication and hard work throughout the year. Your efforts are the backbone of our successes and the driving force behind our ambitious projects.”