ILUSTRE ICAI Lab: Advancing AI & Data Science for Sustainability in Curaçao

Our journey began with a meeting with the Integrated Water Commission, to discuss the vision for the Future of Water. Together, we assessed the current landscape and strategized for sustainable water management leading up to 2030.

At the Caribbean Sports Week Curaçao (CSWC), we presented the ILUSTRE ICAI Lab vision, emphasizing our goal of establishing an Academy for Data Science in Curaçao. This initiative will foster innovation and collaboration, made possible through partnerships with Jheronimus Academy of Data Science, LaNubia Consulting, Orange Sports Forum, Wavemakers United, and other key stakeholders.

During our visit to the Regulatory Authority of Curaçao, we explored the role of AI and Data Science in policy generation. Curaçao has set ambitious renewable energy goals:

• 50% renewable energy production by 2035,

• 100% renewable energy by 2045.

Currently, with over 40% renewable energy production, Curaçao is setting an example for island economies worldwide. Thanks to forward-thinking projects such as Aqualectra’s wind farms, the island is well on its way to a sustainable energy future.

A visit to 2BAYS Curaçao (Refinery of Curaçao) provided insights into the past refinery’s sustainability ambitions in a new setting. Their impressive facilities include:

• Energy Micro-grid with a 60 MW Power Plant,

• Water Desalination Plant supporting new tenant activities.

At the University of Curaçao we explored the Island Digital Twin, a cutting-edge simulation tool developed in collaboration with TNO. This technology unlocks new possibilities for urban planning and sustainable development.

Finally, during our visit to Aqualectra, their team provided valuable insights into Curaçao’s energy transition:

• expanding wind energy investments.

• developing a 25 MW storage system for grid stability.

• implementing a SCADA Control Center for optimized energy and water grid

operations.

• Power Plant visit for power load balancing and maintenance operations.

Aqualectra’s forward-thinking approach highlights the importance of integrated energy and water management for a resilient future.

Inspiring the ILUSTRE Community

‍Our visit to Curaçao underscored the transformative potential of AI and Data Science in tackling societal challenges. The collaborations we fostered pave the way for groundbreaking research and sustainable solutions.

We hope our experiences inspire fellow labs to explore innovative applications of AI for sustainability. Together, we can drive meaningful change and create a future where technology empowers societies towards resilience and sustainability. We would like to thank the Integrated Water Commission of Curaçao, the Regulatory Authority of Curaçao, 2Bays Curaçao, Aqualectra, University of Curaçao and the organizers of the Caribbean Sports Week for hosting us and making us feel welcome at Curaçao. We hope to be able to continue our visits to the island to keep the collaboration spirit alive, and to meet new sponsors who are willing to contribute to the sustainability of the Caribbean through the advancement of AI and data science.

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