Willemstad August 28, 2024 – Refineria di Kòrsou (RdK) and its subsidiary Curaçao Refinery Utilities (CRU) in partnership with Global Oil Management Group (Global), is pleased to announce the commencement of the next phase in the ambitious project to restart asphalt production on Curaçao. 

Following the successful completion of comprehensive equipment inspections, the full repair scope has been meticulously prepared to ensure a smooth restart of operations. As part of this phase, the first significant repair contract has been awarded to a local contractor. This contract entails a complete overhaul of the LPG plant, which is critical for the import of propane required for the project. 

Propane, the same fuel used by households across Curaçao, will play a vital role in the production process. It will be used to generate electricity and steam, and as the primary fuel for furnaces in asphalt production, significantly limiting emissions. This is part of Global’s ambition to set up a production process that is sustainable with no impact for the surrounding community. In addition, Global has been, and will continue, operating its power production facilities to support Aqualectra to ensure a reliable energy supply for the local community. 

The asphalt repair initiative is set to be completed in approximately five months, with an estimated investment of ANG 50 million. The project is expected to generate around 300,000 man-hours of contractor support, with peak employment reaching 400 contractor workers. 

Parallel with these efforts, RdK and CRU are making investments in the infrastructure necessary to support the asphalt operations. These efforts include ongoing repairs to the jetties, which are essential for the import of crude oil and the export of asphalt. The repair contracts for these critical facilities have been awarded to two local contractors, with a total investment of ANG 7 million earmarked for infrastructure improvements. 

These strategic investments by RdK, Global and CRU mark a significant step toward revitalizing export-related economic activities in the Schottegat industrial area. The restart of asphalt production is anticipated to not only boost the local economy but also reinforce Curaçao's position as a key player in the global asphalt market.