WILLEMSTAD - During a press conference this afternoon, Aqualectra announced that the morning blackout was caused by an explosion in a switchgear. The incident occurred around 6 o'clock at Mundu Nobo, resulting in a complete power outage across the island. By the time of the press conference at 2 p.m., approximately 65% of households had regained power, according to Financial Director Neysa Isenia. She explained that last week's blackout occurred after a third party damaged a cable without notifying Aqualectra. She stated that the causes of the two blackouts in nearly one week are quite different. However, she acknowledged the need for improvements in the power supply, which requires fundamental changes in electricity production and distribution, Isenia added. She emphasized that the current state of the power supply does not meet the company's aspirations or the expectations of the population of Curaçao. 

Minister of Economic Development Ruisandro Cijntje described today's blackout as "unacceptable." Through social media, he stated that while he holds responsibility as the minister overseeing Aqualectra, as a citizen, he cannot tolerate yet another power outage. Cijntje mentioned that Curaçao is already in the process of engaging foreign experts to assess the power supply situation. He called for a special ministerial meeting today to discuss the issue and find a sustainable solution. Cijntje assured the public that they can rely on him, and he will do his utmost to resolve the power supply problems. 

He further stated that, as a minister, he takes responsibility, but he emphasized that the Aqualectra management must also take their share of responsibility.