ECNETNews, WILLEMSTAD, Curaçao, Sept. 18, 2024: Wärtsilä, a leading technology group, has secured another contract with Aqualectra, the government-owned utility company in Curaçao, to enhance the nation’s decarbonisation efforts. The new agreement involves Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) for a state-of-the-art 38.4 MW power plant, strategically designed to support efficient grid balancing as renewable energy integration increases. This contract was officially recorded by Wärtsilä in the third quarter of 2024.
The upcoming Salu Power Plant will operate on a complete EPC basis, initially focusing on baseload power generation before transitioning to a grid-balancing role aligned with Aqualectra’s decarbonisation initiatives. The facility will utilize four Wärtsilä 20V32 engines, positioning it among Aqualectra’s most fuel-efficient assets.
Earlier this year, Aqualectra also ordered a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) alongside Wärtsilä’s GEMS Digital Energy Platform. This integration is a pivotal step towards expanding renewable energy capacities on the island, paving the way for a more sustainable future.
“Aqualectra deeply appreciates its ongoing collaboration with Wärtsilä, which has fostered valuable discussions and advancements, leading to this significant agreement that benefits the people of Curaçao,” stated Aqualectra’s CFO.
The synergy of Wärtsilä’s BESS and GEMS solutions, in conjunction with the new power plant, will enhance grid reliability, minimize unserved energy, and lessen the risks of brownouts and blackouts. Furthermore, these innovations will enable Aqualectra to further its decarbonisation objectives while managing the variability of renewable energy sources.
“Our partnership with Aqualectra has been instrumental in shaping their long-term energy roadmap,” remarked Wärtsilä Energy’s Vice President. “We conducted a thorough analysis of their systems to ensure alignment with their strategic aim of providing affordable, sustainable, and reliable electricity. Our solutions will collectively reduce generation costs and facilitate renewable integration while ensuring high reliability.”
The delivery and construction of the Wärtsilä equipment are prioritized for swift completion, with the new power plant expected to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2025.
Aqualectra serves over 80,000 households and businesses across Curaçao, employing a dedicated workforce focused on delivering quality water and electricity services. The company has an established relationship with Wärtsilä, operating three other plants powered by a total of 16 Wärtsilä engines.
