It seems logical enough that utilities provider GEBE has to do something about persistent arrears in payments going back to a ransomware attack severely impacting its computer networks 2½ years ago. However, the new “power load limiting” system announced (see Thursday newspaper) raises questions.
When bills become overdue they intend to cap the client’s available electricity based on the original capacity during installation. This will be done for five days, after which disconnection is to follow.
Realise that a lot of buildings and their content have significantly expanded since, so usage is often much higher than it used to be. According to management, while some essential devices may still function, the customer’s overall electrical supply will be reduced.
But what does that mean in practice? Won’t customers who experience partial equipment failure think something is terribly wrong and should they worry about possible property damage as a result?
As the government-owned company has plenty of engineers and electricians, one can assume this matter was well thought-out and is being executed in a technically responsible manner. It appears EDF is already applying it on the French side, but some more reassurance towards the St. Maarten public would no doubt be appreciated.
A certain degree of clemency must also be shown for especially households with built-up debts not entirely of their own making. Many who received exorbitant invoices following the “hack” in 2022 and contested such were forced to pay “on account” only from then.
A number of these people might have underestimated the subsequent increase of energy cost mainly due to the fuel clause. Not everyone has been able to clear their backlog yet, so paying at least current bills out to be considered sufficient to avoid disconnection.
Mutual understanding is a two-way street.
