WILLEMSTAD – Aqualectra expects Curaçao’s electricity supply to remain more stable in the coming days and currently does not anticipate having to resume scheduled power cuts. The improved outlook comes after one of four generating units that had been out of service returned to production, while favorable wind conditions are expected to support electricity generation over the weekend.
The utility company announced that current wind forecasts indicate its wind farms should be able to generate electricity at relatively stable levels in the coming days, helping meet the island’s demand.
More importantly, one of the four conventional generating units that had been unavailable is now producing electricity again. The additional capacity provides Aqualectra with more room to balance supply and demand.
Based on current conditions, the company said it does not expect that “schakel,” the system of rotating power cuts used during electricity shortages, will be necessary in the coming days.
The announcement represents an improvement after several difficult days during which neighborhoods across Curaçao experienced repeated power interruptions because Aqualectra lacked sufficient available generating capacity.
However, the utility warned that the electricity system remains vulnerable. Three generating units are still out of service, leaving Curaçao heavily dependent on renewable energy to supplement conventional generation.
Wind and solar production can fluctuate considerably depending on weather conditions. Aqualectra said it will therefore continue closely monitoring wind conditions as well as the availability of its generating units and battery-storage system.
Technical teams are continuing repairs on the remaining generators in an effort to restore additional capacity and return the electricity system to greater stability.
The company also thanked residents for their cooperation during the recent shortages and again urged consumers to use electricity responsibly while the system remains under pressure. Reducing unnecessary consumption can help keep demand within the available production capacity.
Aqualectra stressed that the outlook could still change if wind conditions deteriorate or additional technical problems occur. The company said it will provide updates through its social media channels if there are new developments.
For now, however, the return of one generating unit combined with a favorable wind forecast means Curaçao enters the weekend with a considerably better electricity outlook than it faced earlier this week.