THE HAGUE – The Dutch subsidy system used to stimulate renewable energy projects in the Netherlands cannot simply be copied to Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten, according to energy expert Roban van Herk of research institute The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO).
Speaking during the Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO) in The Hague, Van Herk presented the findings of a study commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate Policy that examined whether the Netherlands’ Sustainable Energy Production and Climate Transition Incentive Scheme (SDE++) could be applied in the Caribbean countries of the Kingdom.
The study concluded that the islands require a customized approach due to their smaller economies, unique energy systems and different investment needs.
The report also highlighted the broader economic benefits of renewable energy. By reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, the islands could retain more money within their local economies and reduce exposure to volatile international fuel prices.
His presentation formed part of discussions on strengthening cooperation within the Kingdom and promoting sustainable development across the Caribbean countries.
Curaçao’s transition to renewable energy will depend as much on strengthening its electricity infrastructure as on building new solar and wind projects, according to energy expert Roban van Herk.
According to Van Herk, Aruba and Curaçao have made significant progress in advancing renewable energy because of favorable natural conditions, including abundant sunshine and strong winds.
These factors make both solar and wind energy viable alternatives to fossil fuel-based electricity generation. The study also found considerable potential in Sint Maarten, particularly in solar energy.
Addressing parliamentarians during the Interparliamentary Kingdom Consultation (IPKO) in The Hague, Van Herk said investments in electricity grids, battery storage systems and backup generation capacity should be prioritized to ensure a reliable energy supply.
Van Herk noted that businesses and homeowners on Sint Maarten are increasingly installing solar photovoltaic systems, demonstrating growing local interest in renewable energy solutions.
However, because these energy sources depend on weather conditions, they require supporting infrastructure capable of balancing fluctuations in electricity production.
The sun does not always shine and the wind does not always blow, Van Herk explained. That means islands need batteries, backup capacity and modern electricity networks that can manage changes in supply and demand.
The recommendations closely align with a decision by the Dutch government to make €150 million available for the energy transition in Curaçao, Aruba and Sint Maarten.
Announced during the Caribbean Climate and Energy Conference in Curaçao in 2025, the funding is intended to strengthen the foundations of the energy transition rather than directly subsidize renewable energy projects.
Significant progress has been made in Curaçao’s reform program, but the results remain vulnerable and could be undermined without continued political commitment, administrative leadership and public support, according to an independent evaluation presented at IPKO.
Maria van der Sluijs-Plantz, chairwoman of the Evaluation Committee for the Mutual Arrangement for Cooperation on Reforms, said the review found that reforms in Curaçao have produced concrete results but are not yet fully secured.
The evaluation found that maintaining momentum will require continued focus, realistic priorities and sustained commitment from political leaders and public institutions.
Curacao Chronicle / ABC Flash Point News 2026.
What an amazing cooperation?