WEB Aruba N.V. and Wärtsilä Finland Oy have signed the Final Completion Certificate for the new DG-7 diesel generator at the RECIP III plant, formally handing the engine over to WEB. DG-7 replaces the unit damaged by a fire in April 2024. The signing ceremony at WEB brought together officials, project partners, employees, and contractors, and included a donation of 10,000 florins to the Aruba Foundation for the Management of Sports Facilities to support local swimming pools.
WEB CEO Alfredo Koolman thanked the company’s emergency team for its swift response during last year’s fire—an incident that struck amid surging electricity demand driven by high temperatures and growing tourism. The project represents an investment of over 35 million florins, with insurance discussions still ongoing. Koolman noted WEB’s strong safety record compared to neighboring islands since adopting these engines 19 years ago, crediting certified operators, disciplined maintenance, and excellent housekeeping.
To serve the community and a tourism industry welcoming ~2 million visitors annually, Koolman stressed the need for robust, reliable capacity—not improvised units that risk outages and wider consequences. He urged insurers to help resolve the outstanding claim. Looking ahead, RECIP III will be expanded with two additional engines targeted to be operational by August 2026. This firm capacity will support Aruba’s renewable rollout (wind, solar, and storage). With a clearer roadmap and funding support from the Dutch Ministry of Economic Affairs and Climate in 2025 and beyond, Koolman believes the national goal of 50% renewables by 2030 is achievable.
As part of its community commitment, WEB’s donation will aid the Community Pool in San Nicolas and the Roly Bisslick Olympic Pool in Savaneta—facilities that serve hundreds of children and local swim organizations—and WEB will also contribute maintenance expertise and water-quality testing.
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