Island Solar Power, Aruba

The photo below shows the roof of the Dutch Marine Base located in Savaneta, Aruba. A few years ago, they installed these solar panels in order to power their motor pool facilities. I have not been able to go inside to check them out up close, but I’m told the system works very well.

This is a large installation of panels. About 10 times what I will put up for my own house. Still, it shows what can be done. Furthermore, since the system activated, the price of electricity on the island has increased significantly. Thus, the payback time has decreased, making it a better investment than originally anticipated.

At this time, there is a flurry of activity in alternative energy in Aruba. The local power company has a monopoly on electricity generation and distribution. They are not pleased with the clamor for private systems that are grid connected. No monopoly likes to have it’s authority and revenue questioned. There is talk of 500 permits being issued for grid-connected systems. This is a smoke and mirror approach that will only lead to special fees and taxes designed to limit the private sector and make private ownership of power generation too costly. Nonetheless, private individuals are installing systems that are OFF-GRID. It won’t be long before the flood gates are open. The cost of electricity in Aruba is blindingly high and the incentive to have individual systems is extremely rewarding. Thus, the private sector will not only reduce pollution but also give those people who put forth the effort a great return on their investment. Go for it.

Published in: on August 17, 2008 at 10:59 am  Leave a Comment  
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The New Pueblito Paisa, Aruba

If you’re looking for stick to your ribs kind of food, there’s a place in San Nicolaas, Aruba called The New Pueblito Paisa. This restaurant is operated by a nice Colombian woman who I’ve gotten to know over the years. The food, as you would expect, is Colombian, including the famous Bandeja Paisa platter, oxtail soup, and homemade fruit drinks. It’s on a corner of Helfrichstraat.

With an exterior painted like that, it’s hard to miss. I sat at the counter for many hours, writing, learning Spanish from the waitresses, and watching the people come and go. Pueblito is very popular with the refinery workers who phone in their orders. The best time for lunch is about 11:15, right before the big rush, or after 1:00 when it is over. Either way, the food will fill you up. For example, the other day I ordered the lomito platter, which is a steak pounded flat, grilled and sauced. It comes with fries, rice and a small salad. I took the photo after the salad was gone.

That was tasty! Filled me up for the rest of the day. The Chuleta Colombiana is a pork chop pounded flat, battered and fried. The batter has enough garlic to last three days. Excellent. Again, this isn’t the place if you’re worried about cholesterol or salt. But, if you’re working hard these meals will give you the energy to keep going. Of course, my desert is the beloved, and ice-cold, Coca Cola.

Notice that plate in the background is about wiped clean. More important, that can of Coca-Cola is frosty cold, exactly as it should be. Never accept less.

Published in: on August 16, 2008 at 10:24 am  Leave a Comment  
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Dawn, Aruba

Not a morning person? That’s a shame. However, if you are, you already know that sunrise can be as spectacular as sunset. Here’s one from the southern tip of Aruba.

Before dawn, the rest of the world has yet to have their morning coffee, to pick up the phone, and start interrupting whatever we early-birds are doing. That’s okay. To each his own.

I’ve always been a morning person, getting more writing done between five and noon than I do the rest of the day. Some of my friends work over night shifts. They’re eating supper when the rest of us are having breakfast. When we meet up, it’s an usual table setting.

Anyway, don’t forget that life isn’t so short as it is precious. Whatever your habits, make the most of every day.

Published in: on August 15, 2008 at 10:40 am  Leave a Comment  
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Roger’s Beach, Aruba

Near the southern tip of Aruba is an area known as Roger’s Beach. Crescent shaped, it curves out to the Caribbean, creating a handsome lagoon of bath-warm water. At the far end of the beach are a few small docks where fisherman moor their boats.

Like so many things in Aruba, however, there is a contrast between this beach and the refinery complex just about a mile away. You can be swimming or enjoying the sunshine here, and so long as you look to the south, southwest, you would never know that the refinery is just over your shoulder. Here’s a look at it, with the end of Roger’s Beach in the frame.

That view never bothers me. Refineries are a reality. This one doesn’t affect the beach very much. In fact this beach is typically less crowded than Baby Beach which is only another half mile further down the coast. So, give it a try. You might like it.

Published in: on August 14, 2008 at 11:04 am  Leave a Comment  
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