Aruba begins construction on BESS II energy storage project

Aruba has officially commenced construction on the BESS II project, a large-scale Battery Energy Storage System designed to enhance the island's energy security and support renewable energy integration.

Managed by WEB Aruba, the project features a capacity of 35 megawatts (MW) and 70 megawatt-hours (MWh) of storage. Once completed, it is expected to be the largest system of its kind in the Caribbean. The initiative aims to facilitate the use of wind and solar power by storing excess energy for use during periods of high demand.

Minister René Herdé stated that the project is a critical step toward Aruba's goal of meeting 50% of its energy needs through renewable sources by 2030. The system is intended to stabilize the electrical grid and reduce the island's long-standing dependence on fossil fuels.