Last day, during the United Nations General Assembly meetings #UNGA78, Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes attended the energy conference. In her speech, Prime Minister outlined Aruba’s ambitious plans to transition to clean energy. Aruba, for the first time has its National Energy Policy, a concrete plan that indicates how to meet the challenges of reduction of CO2 emissions.
The National Energy Policy is supported by all stakeholders and its objectives. The important thing is this.
- To reduce carbon emissions by 45% by 2030, as set by the United Nations, with the goal to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
- To comply with the Paris 2050 agreement and turn Aruba into a “carbon neutral” country
- To increase the energy efficiency of all businesses, homes and organisations by 15% by 2020 2030
- To increase renewable energy use by 35% in terms of electricity production by 2024
- To increase the use of electric vehicles by 15% by 2030.
The Prime Minister emphasized: “Aruba is ambitious and committed to realizing these goals, and we are determined to comply with the Paris Agreement to achieve the goals set in Paris. She also expressed, that she and most of the Small Island Developing States (SIDS) feel that not all countries are so committed. This is certainly frustrating, considering the devastating effects of climate change are becoming more visible and felt, and there is no time to lose.
“I am extremely proud of all our professionals, for their efforts and dedication in creating a National Energy Plan for Aruba. We received praise from several other participants for our efforts and our commitment to comply with the plan. With determination we will continue to work, looking for more collaboration to achieve our goals, the Prime Minister said”.
