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  
Tags: , , , , , , ,

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  
Tags: , , , , , , , ,

An Island Away, Excerpt 5

Captain Upton’s voice filled his head. “Keep a firm hand on the wheel, or some mother’s son will turn it for you.”

An Island Away is the story of three people who have to figure out what they want, what they want from each other, and how they’re going to get it. Set in the refinery town of San Nicolaas, Aruba, this tale of flexible morality takes a hard look at the other side of paradise. It is available at Amazon.com, BN.com, as well as many bookstores and gift shops in Aruba.

Published in: on August 12, 2008 at 12:14 pm  Comments (1)  
Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Snorkel Cruise, Aruba

Snorkeling in Aruba can be fantastic. In earlier posts, I mentioned various places to go from shore. This post takes a look at a snorkel cruise. The boat pictured belongs to the Jolly Pirates. There are other operators on the island, including Red Sail Sports, Pelican Watersports, and small family businesses, too.

The nice thing about snorkeling from the boat is that you can go to places that may not be accessible from shore. They also serve drinks and maybe snacks. Music plays in the background as you swing off the yardarm. Lots of fun no matter what. Just don’t forget that sunscreen!

Published in: on August 7, 2008 at 6:34 pm  Leave a Comment  
Tags: , , , , , , , , , ,
« Older Entries
Newer Entries »