Wärtsilä and Aqualectra partner to support Curaçao’s decarbonisation with new power plant to balance renewables

Wärtsilä, a global technology company, has partnered once again with Aqualectra, the government-owned utility company of Curaçao. Together, they are working on a new project aimed at helping Curaçao reach its decarbonisation goals. This partnership will result in a new 38.4 MW power plant, which will help balance the island’s energy grid as more renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, are added. The order for the power plant was confirmed in the third quarter of 2024.

The New Salu Power Plant

The Salu Power Plant will be designed, procured, and built by Wärtsilä (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction or EPC). At first, the plant will supply power to the island, but over time, it will be used to balance energy production as part of Curaçao’s green energy plan. It will feature four Wärtsilä 20V32 engines, making it one of Aqualectra’s most efficient power plants, meaning it will save fuel and reduce emissions.

Earlier this year, Aqualectra also worked with Wärtsilä to install a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) and the GEMS Digital Energy Platform. These systems allow the island to increase its use of renewable energy, which is key for creating a sustainable future for Curaçao.

Aqualectra’s View on the Partnership

Mrs. Neysa Isenia, CFO of Aqualectra, spoke about the close relationship between her company and Wärtsilä. She expressed appreciation for Wärtsilä’s willingness to engage in discussions and collaborate on significant projects for Curaçao. This latest power plant is another example of their ongoing partnership to serve the people and businesses on the island.

How Wärtsilä’s Solutions Help Curaçao

The new power plant, combined with Wärtsilä’s BESS and GEMS systems, will make the energy grid more stable and reliable. This means fewer energy outages and a reduced risk of blackouts. In addition, these solutions will allow Aqualectra to focus on decarbonising its energy system by making it easier to use renewable energy, such as solar or wind power, without interruption.

Risto Paldanius, Vice President at Wärtsilä Energy for the Americas, highlighted that the collaboration with Aqualectra involved careful planning and analysis of Curaçao’s energy system. The goal is to provide the island with affordable, sustainable, and reliable electricity. Wärtsilä’s technology will help reduce energy costs, allow more renewable energy integration, and ensure high reliability for Curaçao’s energy needs.

What’s Next for the Project?

Wärtsilä is working on a fast schedule to get the equipment delivered and the power plant built. The new Salu Power Plant is expected to be fully operational by the fourth quarter of 2025. This project adds to Wärtsilä’s long-standing relationship with Aqualectra, which already has three Wärtsilä power plants operating with 16 engines on Curaçao.

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About Wärtsilä Energy

Wärtsilä Energy is a leader in helping the world transition to 100% renewable energy. They work with customers and energy companies to decarbonise their energy production by providing flexible power plants, energy storage solutions, and systems that optimise power generation. With 79 GW of power plant capacity worldwide, including 125 energy storage systems in 180 countries, Wärtsilä is playing a major role in reducing carbon emissions around the world.

About Aqualectra

Aqualectra is the utility company responsible for providing water and electricity to over 80,000 homes and businesses in Curaçao. The company has a dedicated team of 615 employees who are committed to delivering quality services to the people of Curaçao.