The recent blackout has left many questions unanswered, particularly after officials suggested that wind speed was a major factor. As I see it, this explanation does not hold up. In fact, reports from the 2023 blackouts already concluded that the issue lies with the distribution network protections and their ability to respond to the variability of renewable energy sources (RES). Aqualectra was advised to act on this, and if those recommendations had been followed, yesterday’s blackout might well have been avoided.

Grid Protections Must Be Up to Date

In modern utility management, distribution protections must be continuously updated and adapted as renewable energy sources are integrated into the grid. The dynamics of the grid need to be constantly simulated and monitored. If that process had been in place, we may have faced temporary load-shedding due to a shortage in production capacity—but not a full-scale blackout.

Lack of Reliable Production Capacity

The fact that the grid has not been fully restored since 3 a.m. suggests a shortage of reliable production capacity. Renewable energy production cannot be counted as fully reliable capacity, and this is something that must be factored into planning.

Much has been said about the role of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS). However, utilities in island systems like ours use BESS to stabilize variability in renewable energy, not to replace reliable base production. Suggesting that the blackout would not have occurred if BESS were available is misleading. True reliability requires sufficient conventional capacity alongside renewable sources and BESS.

Utility Basics and Planning

Utility basics teach us that load projections can be forecast with relative precision for each calendar year. Curaçao’s peak demand profile is not a mystery—it can be anticipated. If projections showed insufficient capacity for this period, temporary production units should have been hired in advance. That would have been far less costly for the community than a full day of economic paralysis.

The Role of Oversight

This also raises questions about oversight. Curaçao’s regulator has a duty to ensure that the community is guaranteed reliable electricity supply and that Aqualectra meets its annual targets. The Supervisory Board also carries responsibility to ensure that year plans and budgets are prepared and reviewed with these fundamentals in mind.

Respect for Aqualectra’s Workers

I want to stress that my criticism is not aimed at the hardworking men and women of Aqualectra. I have deep respect for their dedication, especially during crises when they work tirelessly under pressure to restore power. My critique is directed at decision-making and planning at the policy level.

In Conclusion

This commentary is not written to attack policymakers, but to urge transparency and proper communication with the public. We must face the truth and draw the right conclusions if we want Curaçao to move to the next level. Otherwise, we will remain stuck in the same cycle. I remain ready to contribute ideas and advice—without conditions—for the sake of a more resilient and reliable Curaçao.