WILLEMSTAD - Refineria di Kòrsou (RdK) informed Dutch Minister of Climate and Energy, Rob Jetten, about sustainable plans on May 15th during his work visit to Curaçao. During the meeting, RdK management presented the roadmap that has been developed to achieve a sustainable redevelopment of the already available areas around the Refinery and Bullenbaai Terminal. An overview of the ongoing projects on these sites, collectively known as "Horizonte Nobo," was also provided.
The areas currently occupied by RdK, where the Refinery and Bullenbaai Terminal are located, have historically been used for the petroleum industry, which has been one of Curaçao's important economic pillars for many years. RdK, which is also responsible for the refinery's restart, is pursuing a parallel trajectory, in which approximately 35% of the total areas will be redeveloped for other (sustainable, green) industrial purposes alongside the search for a refinery operator. This redevelopment will contribute to long-term socio-economic development for the island and the creation of a green industrial cluster in the harbor. In the development of this Roadmap, which was recently approved by the Council of Ministers, close collaboration with CPA (Curaçao Ports Authority) has been ensured to guarantee an integrated development of the harbor. The green new industries, mostly related to energy transition, that RdK aims to attract to these areas will contribute to diversifying the economy and also lead to increased employment opportunities and foreign exchange earnings.
An important element for the successful redevelopment of these areas is the further development and systematic implementation of a strategic remediation plan to address soil and groundwater pollution on the RdK premises. During the presentation to Minister Jetten, it was explained how RdK, supported by the hired expert RoyalHaskoningDHV, and in close consultation with third parties such as other government-owned companies, ministries, NGOs, and local and international businesses focusing on technological advancements, has developed a zoning plan for the available redevelopment areas. After the presentation, Minister Jetten was given a tour of the RdK site to gain a better understanding of the remediation challenges as well as the sustainable activities that are already being developed on these premises.
