News item | 10-05-2023 | 10:00 PM
The Netherlands will strengthen cooperation with Aruba and Sint Maarten in the field of renewable energy. The countries agreed on this today during the first Caribbean Climate and Energy Conference (CCEC), which will take place in Aruba from 10 to 12 May.
A broad group of organizations, islands and countries with islands from both the Caribbean and beyond are present at the CCEC. With the conference, the Netherlands and Aruba want to promote cooperation on climate action between small islands worldwide. Examples of themes that are discussed are an inclusive energy transition and the financing of all plans.
At the conference, the Netherlands will sign a so-called Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with both Sint Maarten and Aruba. The collaboration focuses on various renewable energy technologies, such as wind energy, green hydrogen, solar energy and energy storage. The agreement includes agreements on the exchange of personnel and scientific and technological knowledge and the organization of, for example, joint working groups and research projects.
Minister for Climate and Energy, Rob Jetten: “Islands are already on the front line of climate change. If we do not take action, the consequences will become increasingly greater and possibly even irreversible. That is why the cabinet wants to ensure that islands such as Aruba and Sint Maarten do not lag behind in the transition. That is also climate justice for me.”
Prime Minister of Aruba, Evelyn Wever-Croes: “Aruba is recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic with a strong and resilient economy. Energy will become an important economic pillar. There are many opportunities for the taking, both for Aruba itself, but especially together in the Kingdom. The signed MoU is an important step in this direction, because if we really want to implement changes, then we have to make a joint effort.”
Prime Minister of Sint Maarten, Silveria Jacobs: “If my previous discussions and lobbying have provided any insight, it is that it is of great importance for Sint Maarten to be part of the conversations when it comes to green energy and sustainable development for our island. With the signing of this MoU, we are ready to take major steps towards sustainability and the long-awaited energy transition that Sint Maarten envisions.”