WILLEMSTAD - Refineria di Kòrsou (RdK) recently introduced 'Horizonte Nobo' (New Prospect), an initiative that should give substance to the energy transition for Curaçao and will also lay the foundations for Curaçao as an exporter of green fuel. During a virtual session where the Prime Minister Mr. Eugene Rhuggenaath, Minister for Economic Development Dr. Steven Martina and Minister for Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning Mrs. Zita Jesus-Leito participated, the Horizonte Nobo was presented to a group of stakeholders. This is the first of a series of information sessions with local and Dutch stakeholders with the aim of introducing ' Horizonte Nobo ' and thus giving a chance to respond to Curaçao's ambition to increase knowledge about this, reduce energy costs and to stimulate sustainable economic diversification.
In addition to searching for a sustainable continuation of the refining and storage of oil and resulting products, RdK has been working on the energy transition of these facilities in the short term but also the transition for the benefit of the Curaçao community in the long term. It is remarkable that the initiative for the transition extends beyond alternative power production. RdK looked at energy needs and consumption, but also at possible production and even export of alternative fuels. This, under the name 'Horizonte Nobo'.
Part of this is a Living Lab. However, RdK cannot develop this alone and therefore uses the knowledge and experience of TNO. Together, a research has started called ‘On the way to a Living Lab Curaçao’. Interim results of TNO on mobility simulation in a ′′ Digital Twin ′′ show interesting opportunities for further developing the energy transition on Curaçao. In the use of sustainable energy, the first that is seriously being investigated is the possibilities for sustainable public transport. The Digital Twin is now at the university and is connected to development with TNO in the Netherlands.
RdK has, since it was clear that land would be made available when entering into a new long-term partnership for the sustainable continuation of the refinery, started developing the property. That is why the agreement was concluded in June for the Living Lab investigation.
In the coming weeks, several groups and the community will be informed and involved in this interesting and important development for Curaçao.