WILLEMSTAD – Aqualectra has successfully repaired one of its failed generating units, increasing the amount of conventional electricity production available as the utility works around the clock to stabilize Curaçao’s power supply.
Aqualectra reported that four generating plants are currently operating again. Combined with stronger winds, the additional capacity was sufficient to handle last night’s peak electricity demand without further load shedding. Aqualectra had initially warned that neighborhoods might again have to be temporarily disconnected, but the measure ultimately proved unnecessary.
The development provides some relief after Curaçao experienced repeated power cuts earlier this month. At the height of the problems, four production units were unavailable while electricity demand on particularly warm days could reach approximately 140 megawatts. Available conventional capacity had fallen to around 100 megawatts, leaving Aqualectra heavily dependent on wind generation and its battery storage system.
During a behind-the-scenes visit to the Dokweg facilities on Saturday, Aqualectra's management and technical staff provided the press with additional information about the failures and ongoing repairs.
The problems can be traced back to December 2025, when one of the production units at Dokweg II suffered what Aqualectra described as a “catastrophic failure.” An investigation determined that components prescribed by the manufacturer and installed during earlier maintenance contributed to the damage. The same components had been used in three other units, eventually leaving four machines unavailable.
Aqualectra says the unexpected technical failures are covered by insurance. Local media previously reported that the manufacturer's insurer had paid nearly XCG 20 million in connection with the damage.
Repair efforts are now continuing 24 hours a day. Four teams from international companies are assisting Aqualectra, while replacement parts are being brought to Curaçao to return additional generating units to service.
The utility is also working with 2Bays/CRU to bring a gas turbine at the refinery site back into operation as an additional source of electricity. The turbine is intended to provide more dependable capacity while repairs at Dokweg continue.
Despite the improvement, Curaçao’s electricity system remains vulnerable until more conventional generating capacity becomes available. Wind generation can make up a significant portion of the shortfall when conditions are favorable, but production can drop sharply during periods of little wind. That combination of low wind and high electricity demand triggered several of the recent rounds of load shedding.
A longer-term increase in capacity is expected with the completion of Aqualectra’s new Salu power plant. The 40-megawatt facility is currently expected to become operational in December, providing additional capacity and greater room for regular maintenance and unexpected breakdowns.