Alternative Fuel And Energy Production In Aruba: A Case Study

Abstract

On the island of Aruba, a combination of recently rising oil prices, the socio-cultural influence of the Netherlands, and a desire for a greater degree of long term autonomy are helping to increase interest in natural resource conservation and alternative fuels and energy production methods. The case begins with a citizen facing economic hardships and then paints three alternatives to reduce Aruba’s dependence on oil: 1) possible biodiesel production on the island, 2) the Master Engineer for the country working through negotiations for a wind power “farm” on the island, and 3) the Master Engineer working with the hotel consortium on a plan to air condition Aruba’s hotels using sea water air conditioning (SWAC). In all situations, we are faced with the uncertainty and the challenges involved in cleaner technology implementation.