WILLEMSTAD – Curaçao has the potential to strengthen its economy while becoming more climate-resilient by transitioning to a modern energy infrastructure that integrates solar, wind, batteries, and electric vehicles. This was the message shared by international energy expert Jan Vrins at a seminar hosted by the Dutch Caribbean Economists Association last week.
Vrins advocated for the adoption of an “energy cloud model,” a digitally managed energy infrastructure that connects and centrally controls all available resources, such as solar and wind energy, batteries, and electric vehicles. According to Vrins, Curaçao, like other Caribbean islands, has the potential to benefit from this innovative approach to energy generation and consumption. However, the island must take action to realize this potential.
Obstacles to Overcome
Vrins’ presentation highlighted several challenges Curaçao faces in achieving this energy transition. These include a heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, a shortage of technical experts, and limited access to affordable financing. Additionally, the island’s vulnerability to hurricanes and tropical storms introduces additional risks and costs when developing new energy infrastructure.
The current energy landscape adds complexity to the transition. Energy demand is growing due to tourism and population increases, and the electricity grid is not yet adequately prepared for the variable production of solar and wind energy. There is a clear need for energy storage capacity, smart regulations, and a well-defined vision. According to Vrins, the government must take the lead in addressing these issues.
Learning from Hawaii
Vrins suggested that Curaçao could learn from other islands that have made significant progress in their energy transitions, such as Hawaii. He also recommended establishing an Energy Transition Advisory Council to support the government and businesses with expertise on policy, regulation, training, and investment. Public engagement, including information campaigns, would be key to gaining support for the transition.
A crucial first step, Vrins argued, is to capitalize on “low-hanging fruit”—practical projects that carry relatively low risks and offer clear returns. These could include combining wind energy with battery storage, developing large-scale solar parks with storage, and integrating electric vehicles intelligently into the grid.
The Cost of Transition
Transitioning to an energy cloud model is costly, but Vrins emphasized that it is necessary for Curaçao’s future. The shift would not only reduce the island’s dependency on oil but also make it more attractive to investors and tourists who value sustainability. “Lowering CO2 emissions will follow naturally,” Vrins stated.
By embracing this modern energy model, Curaçao could position itself as a leader in the green energy transition, boosting both its economy and its resilience to climate change.
