Aruba and Sint Maarten signed an agreement on sustainable energy cooperation with the Netherlands

May 11, 2023

The Netherlands strengthens collaboration with Aruba and Sint Maarten in the field of renewable energy. The three countries signed an MoU during the first Caribbean Climate and Energy Conference (CCEC) in Aruba from May 10 to 12. During the conference, the Netherlands signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Aruba and Sint Maarten, which will focus on collaboration on various renewable energy technologies, including wind energy, green hydrogen, solar energy, and energy storage. The agreement encompasses provisions for the exchange of personnel, scientific and technological knowledge, and the establishment of joint working groups and research projects.

Rob Jetten, Minister for Climate and Energy, stated, “Islands are already on the front line of climate change. If we do not act, the effects will become even greater and possibly even irreversible. That is why the Dutch government wants to ensure that islands such as Aruba and Sint Maarten do not stay behind in the transition. That is also climate justice for me.”

The Minister also announced that the Government of the Netherlands decided to make the National Growth Fund of the Netherlands applicable to Aruba, Curaçao, and Sint Maarten. A total of 100 million euros is available from the National Growth Fund to accelerate the climate and energy transition and improve employment, living standards, and economic growth potential on all three islands. In addition, the Netherlands will make funds available through its main renewable energy subsidy scheme for cost-effective renewable energy projects available for the islands.

During the roundtable discussion at the CCEC, Minister Ursell Arends brought forward the government’s statement about climate and energy plans for Aruba towards 2050.


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