Power Outages Costing Curaçao's Economy Dearly, Experts Warn

Former Aqualectra management member Dieudonné van der Veen is warning that power interruptions — including brownouts and controlled load-shedding — are causing significant economic and social harm in Curaçao. Van der Veen notes that electricity is often taken for granted until it disappears, at which point the damage to businesses and households begins immediately. The economic consequences of both partial voltage drops (brownouts) and deliberate switching outages are described as considerable. His comments underscore growing concern on the island about the reliability of Aqualectra, Curaçao's public utility provider. The warnings highlight the broader vulnerability of the local economy to infrastructure failures, particularly in a service-driven economy dependent on consistent power supply.

On Tuesday, August 18, vendors at Plaza Wilson 'Papa' Godett in Willemstad, Curaçao began their transition to the newly designated Marshe Rondó market. The move marks a significant shift for the informal vendors who previously operated at the plaza. At Marshe Rondó, the sellers will have access to modern facilities designed to allow them to present and sell their products in an orderly and appealing manner. The upgraded environment is intended to create a more welcoming experience for visitors who frequent the market. The relocation represents an effort to improve both vendor conditions and the overall visitor experience at one of Willemstad's commercial gathering points.

A gas plant operated by 2Bays is being considered as a potential solution to help address Curaçao's ongoing electricity supply challenges. The use of Aggreko temporary power generators has been ruled out as an unfavorable option for both the community and state utility Aqualectra at this time. Officials indicate that deploying the Aggreko generators would result in a significant increase in electricity costs for consumers, making it an irresponsible choice under current circumstances. The 2Bays gas plant is being positioned as a more viable and cost-effective alternative to bridge the energy gap. The situation underscores the ongoing strain on Curaçao's power infrastructure and the urgency to find sustainable, affordable solutions. Aqualectra, the island's electricity and water provider, remains central to navigating the energy crisis without further burdening residents.