SAN NICOLAS - The oil refinery in San Nicolas — once the largest in the world — will be dismantled and redeveloped into a sustainable and inclusive zone after full environmental remediation. The announcement was made today by Prime Minister Mike Eman in the presence of Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof.

“For nearly a century, the refinery was the beating heart of Aruba’s industrial era,” said Eman. “Generations of Arubans built their lives around this facility. But the future demands courage. Today, we close this chapter not only with memories of the refinery’s contribution, but with a renewed conviction to open a new chapter of innovation, sustainability, and shared prosperity.”

The San Nicolas refinery played a crucial role during World War II, serving as one of the main fuel suppliers for the Allied forces.

Aruba has formally requested technical assistance from the Dutch government to ensure the safe dismantling and decontamination of the site, as well as support in preparing international tenders for the area’s redevelopment.

Prime Minister Schoof, who visited Aruba after attending the COP30 Climate Conference in Brazil, praised the AVP–Futuro government for its bold and forward-looking decision. “This is not an easy step, but a historic and crucial moment for Aruba,” he said. “The island is showing true leadership — transforming what once powered the world into a new source of renewal and opportunity.”

The Dutch government will contribute €53.6 million — nearly Afl. 110 million — to a special Energy Transition Fund to strengthen and modernize Aruba’s electricity grid and renewable energy infrastructure.

The redevelopment of the vast Refineria di Aruba (RDA) site is expected to transform San Nicolas into a vibrant center for clean energy, maritime innovation, circular industries, housing, culture, and green infrastructure, in line with the government’s vision of Gemeenschappelijk Goed (Common Good) and sustainable prosperity.

Eman concluded: “With respect for our past but with our eyes firmly on the future, we close this chapter and open a new one — where the refinery grounds will become a source of renewed progress and prosperity for Aruba.”