Bonaire: 100% Sustainable… How’d They Do That?
Tuesday, August 25th, 2009
The island of Bonaire continues on its path toward becoming the first Caribbean island powered by 100% sustainable energy.
In 2007, the island government, which takes pride in the islands beauty and nature preservation, agreed to a multi-faceted project to reduce its dependence on fossil fuel energy by developing an energy system comprised of an 11MW wind farm, 14MW biodiesel plant, and a 3MW backup battery. Ecopower Bonaire BV, a consortium consisting of Evelop, Enercon, and MAN, is spearheading this project that is expected to complete its first phase by the end of 2009.
The project developers have already completed the installation of a pilot 330KW wind turbine, whose current energy production exceeds any initial expectations. Accordingly, 12 additional 990 KW wind turbines are being installed on the north coast of the island, where wind and surf conditions are most ideal. By the end of 2009, these wind turbines should produce 44% of the islands energy. The remaining 56% will be produced by the planned 14MW biodiesel generators, utilizing fuel derived from algae, which will enable the island to shift to 100% sustainable energy supply within five years.
All electricity generated will be delivered to WEB (Water and Energy Bonaire). After completion of the entire project, Ecopower Bonaire BV will remain owner of the wind-biodiesel system. (more…)
The date was set after the 5th Regular Board Meeting approved the regulations and procedures which will govern the operations of the CDF. Among the governance rules and procedures approved were the Appraisal and Disbursement Procedures & Guidelines and the Procurement Procedures. Both of these define the rules related to the CDF’s consideration of requests for grant or loan funding and related procurement activities.
