Kralendijk, December 4th 2023 – The first-ever Collaborative Utility Conference Bonaire (CUCB), organized by Water- en Energiebedrijf Bonaire (WEB), concluded with a resounding success at the Delfins Beach Resort – Conference Centre. Held on November 28 and 29, this landmark event united no less than 75 utility experts, solution providers, and regulatory bodies from Bonaire, Aruba, Curacao, Saba, and the Netherlands to discuss the future of utility management.
Event Highlights:
Day 1: Moderator Mrs. Nathalie Cannegieter enthusiastically kicked off the conference, followed by an inspiring opening speech held by the CFO of WEB, Mrs. Joanne Balentien-Nicastia. The first day offered a series of compelling lectures and discussions, all related to the future of water management for our island and worldwide. Keynote speaker Mr. Hein Pieper, Chairman of the Rijn & Ijssel Water Authority, addressed vital topics such as the effects of climate change and water circles for Bonaire. Other important themes were the purification of sewage water and the importance of sustainable water production for Bonaire.
The first day ended with a presentation of a documentary about WEB’s 60th anniversary.
Day 2: The second day focused on the power of electricity and the impact that this has on the future of our planet. The focus was mainly on climate change sustainable and green energy, including hybrid, solar, wind, and battery technologies. Other topics were;
- the possibilities for funds from the EU,
- innovative battery-led hybrid system for sustainable electricity production on Bonaire,
- the threats, but mainly the opportunities that electric vehicles can present for the island.
The event concluded with a festive farewell at BBQ @ The Beach.
About the Conference:
The CUCB is a groundbreaking event that enhances collaboration and knowledge exchange in the utility sector. It covered many topics, including electric utility management, renewable energy, water production, and wastewater recycling. Notable speakers, besides Mr. Hein Pieper, included Mrs. Joanne Balentien-Nicastia (CFO, WEB), Mr.Gerrit Scharrenberg (COO, WEB), Mr. Hans Staring (Manager, Business Unit Water, WEB), Mr. Robert Emerenciana (Manager, Business Unit Electricity, WEB), Mr. Arthur Janga (Manager, Business Unit Wastewater, WEB),Mrs. Mildred Schwengle, Mr. Edison Rijna, Mr. Roland Ferwerda and Mr. Quinto di Ferdinando.
The conference facilitated discussions on innovative solutions and emerging trends, setting the stage for future advancements in utility management on Bonaire and beyond.
