Wind-Powered Westpunt

As a Dutch island, windmills have been used for centuries. Historically, wind has powered hundreds of pumps to irrigate local orchards but more recently wind has been used to power the grid. Being an island with no oil or other hydrocarbon power source, wind becomes an effective alternative.

In recent years Curacao has taken a leadership role across the Caribbean in wind power. Other Caribbean islands that have installed wind turbines. Notably the Dominican Republic, Cuba, Guadeloupe, and Jamaica. However, Curaçao has developed the most experience in harnessing the power of wind farms.

The island now farms more than 30 percent of its energy from wind power. Since launching in 1993, the plants (Terra Korá and Playa Kanoa) have been a tremendous success and are viewed as the standard bearer for all other Caribbean wind farm projects. The annual output of the main turbines that you see near the airport is enough for 21,000 homes. There are a total of 75.000 homes on the island so that is approximately a third of its residential energy use.

The iconic wind turbines are located on the rocky north side of the island make for a fun day out. There are wonderful dune buggy tours under the towers.

The Cliff Villa Peninsula is on one of the most windy coast on the island. Not only is this a blessing on the warm summery days but it will enable Cliff Villa to get off the grid. Over the next 6 months the property commits to work with the Curacao government to run a pilot. We intend to show the benefit and efficiency of localized wind turbine energy. The Cliff Villa Peninsula will generate its own energy and have engaged an innovative turbine company called Dutch Ventus to install non-noise, efficient units that generate energy even at very high winds.

Stay tuned!