AES Dominicana… “Let us hope for abundant electrical rainfall…
PUERTO PRINCIPE/HAITI - OCTOBER 13, 2010: Singer Juan Luis Guerra speaks with journalists during the ceremony to begin the construction of a hospital for the victims of 2010 Haiti earthquake. All artwork rights are owned by Germán & Co. Any unauthorized publication is strictly prohibited.Introduction to the Voyage of Existence for the Better...
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“Imagine a world where the skies gift us with electrical rainfall, a phenomenon where energy cascades from the heavens, promising to power our dreams and innovations. This is not just a flight of fancy, but a vision of a future where renewable energy is as natural and abundant as the rain that nourishes our earth. In this blog entry, we'll explore the exciting possibilities of harnessing the power of electrical storms, turning the might of nature into a sustainable source that could light up our cities and homes, and spark a revolution in how we think about and use energy. Join us on this electrifying journey as we delve into the potential of electrical rainfall and its role in powering a brighter, cleaner future. Imagine if we could store all this wonderful energy...
“Ojalá Que Llueva Café” is a song by Dominican singer-songwriter Juan Luis Guerra about the desire for a better life in the countryside. The song focuses on the metaphor of rain, specifically the rain of coffee, which alleviates the drought and hardships of rural life and provides abundant food and joy. Guerra’s lyrics depict a heavenly landscape of clouds seeding the fields with coffee and other crops such as cassava, tea, white cheese, watercress, honey, wheat, and a variety of trees. It describes people reaping the land’s bounty, celebrating, and singing together. The song is an ode to the impoverished rural areas of the Caribbean, where most of Guerra’s music is rooted, and an anthem of hope for a better life. Besides, access to electricity is vital. Indeed, electricity is no longer a luxury; rather, it’s a fundamental right. It powers our homes, fuels progress, and connects us globally. Just as coffee rain provides sustenance, electricity brings light, warmth, and opportunity. It’s a lifeline for rural communities, bridging gaps and enabling growth.
In December 2023, Energy Central celebrated top contributors in the Energy & Sustainability Network at the 'Top Voices' event. Winners were featured in 6 articles, demonstrating community recognition. The platform enables professionals to share their work, interact with colleagues, and collaborate with influencers. Congratulations to the 2023 Top Voices: David Hunt, Germán Toro Ghio, Schalk Cloete, and Dan Yurman for demonstrating their expertise. - Matt Chester, Energy Central
Image: Dominican Power Partner (DPP) in Los Minas, Santo Domingo, courtesy of AES Dominicana.Big shoutout to AES Dominicana for their amazing support and unwavering commitment...
During a rainy season day in 1990, the power of the Caribbean Sea was tangible along the Santo Domingo boardwalk, where it relentlessly battered against George Washington Avenue. The darkness enveloped the city entirely, but amidst it, it was possible to discern the lively chords of merengue resonating from afar. The illumination source emanated from a neighbouring grocery store, which relied on a compact generator to power its lights. The volume of the music was so pronounced that it created the illusion of a live performance, overpowering even the sound of the crashing waves from the sea. As the music persisted, a new song started playing: a renowned bachata by Juan Luis Guerra and his 4.40, featuring the globally recognised lyrics: "I hope it will rain coffee." The noise maintained its previous volume, serving as a welcome diversion from the stifling heat that surrounded the island. No one could resist swaying their hips to the beat of the music, almost as if it were a necessary response to the scorching heat. A scream can be heard in the distance, —coño— Pancho... The light is coming, as if the dear friend were not seeing the miracle that is life…
Experiencing the phenomenon of —alumbrones— (the light coming), it may be Kafkaesque, but it is not. It is the production of electrical energy in the country. It was critical, if not non-existent, because of its precariousness. It’s because it evoked a profound sense of exhilaration and joy in individuals. When the electric light peeked out miserably. While the light was fleeting, it undoubtedly provided an unforgettable balsam bath. Thus, the scarcity of much-needed electricity in the Dominican Republic was evident. In other words, that was the dark reality of La Hispaniola. With good intentions and hard work, everything can change.
"A single image can communicate a multitude of messages. In this specific instance, the narrative resonates with a vast amount of light energy. In 1990, the country had an installed capacity of 1460 MW, which served a population of 7,118,000...
Courtesy of AES Dominicana.AES Dominicana has made a significant contribution to improving the efficiency of the Dominican Republic's electricity system by using a variety of fuels and renewable energy sources.
Since its inception in the region, AES has always been committed to making a significant contribution to the energy sector by prioritising the implementation of effective and sustainable changes that benefit all stakeholders.
In 2000, AES demonstrated its commitment to the sustainable growth of the Dominican Republic by establishing AES Andrés. The project included a 319 MW combined-cycle power plant, a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal and a gas pipeline connecting to the DPP plant.
In the same year, AES also acquired the assets of GENER and a 25% stake in the ITABO S.A. power plant. In the following years, AES maintained its investment in the country by undertaking projects such as the conversion of gas turbines to natural gas and the acquisition of additional shares in ITABO S.A. These initiatives by AES have significantly improved the country's strategic energy position and reduced its dependence on oil derivatives for electricity generation.
In the 2010s, AES initiated the construction of AES Andrés 2000, a combined-cycle power plant that represents a significant advancement in the country's energy infrastructure. The company also launched the innovative Closing the Loop project at DPP. This initiative involved the installation of a steam turbine to improve operational efficiency and support environmental and social progress.
In 2017, AES successfully completed the Closing the Loop initiative at DPP, resulting in a significant increase in capacity and efficiency at the plant. This progress contributed significantly to the country's environmental and social development goals. AES Dominicana is proud of its remarkable journey and looks forward to continuing its efforts to promote sustainable energy solutions for a brighter future.
The Bayasol project is a 50 MW solar power plant located in Matanzas, Dominican Republic, 12 km west of Bani in the province of Peravia. The project covers an area of 947,172.73 m2 and aims to produce clean electricity from renewable sources. The annual electricity production is 107,948 MWh, which is transmitted through underground medium voltage circuits insulated at 34.5 kV to a 138 kV substation. This substation houses a 60 MVA transformer that supplies energy to the Dominican Republic's National Interconnected Electric System (SENI). By using solar energy to generate electricity, the project reduces dependence on fossil fuel-based energy production. The project includes solar power plants, substations, the national grid and connected power plants.Further details are subject to revision. The project will use solar energy to generate clean, renewable electricity, replacing electricity from fossil fuel-fired plants connected to the grid. The project will result in an annual greenhouse gas emission reduction of 64,287 tCO2e and 642,866 tCO2e over the ten-year crediting period. Image courtesy of AES Dominicana.
The 50-MW Agua Clara wind farm developed by Inkia Energy Ltd in the Dominican Republic started operations this Tuesday, the office of the country’s president Danilo Medina announced.The Agua Clara project, located on a 120-hectare (296.5 acres) site, required an investment of USD 103 million (EUR 91.3m). The farm is equipped with 25 wind turbines of 2 MW each, capable of producing an estimated 170 GWh per year. 
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AES Dominicana Foundation…
AES Dominicana's focus is on the electrical sector, and its goal is to become integrated with the society of the Dominican Republic.
Since 2007, the AES Dominicana Foundation has accompanied the Dominican Republic in its sustainable development goals, addressing environmental, educational, health, entrepreneurial, and cultural needs as part of the orange economy.
In addition, the foundation has responded to national needs in emergencies and natural disasters. Haiti was struck by a catastrophic earthquake with a magnitude of 7.0 on the Richter scale in 2010, resulting in the deaths of over 200,000 people and the displacement of more than two million. The Foundation was among the first international organisations to provide humanitarian aid, including medical assistance. Following the initial emergency aid, efforts were focused on restoring the country's fragile electrical system. The Foundation's solidarity led to its nomination as a finalist for the Platts Awards that year.
From the beginning, the Foundation has supported cultural and artistic initiatives within the orange economy, a sector endorsed by the Dominican Republic to cultivate talent. Since its establishment, the Foundation has played a significant role as a primary sponsor of the Trampoline Children's Museum in the Colonial City of Santo Domingo.
To date, the AES Dominicana Foundation, in partnership with Berklee College of Music, Itabo Electricity Generating Company, the Ministry of Culture, and the National Conservatory of Music, has awarded a total of forty scholarships for music studies at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston. This incredible opportunity is key to significant personal growth for recipients.
By promoting art and culture, AES Dominicana is actively fuelling the growth of the creative economy in the Dominican Republic and nurturing the development of gifted individuals.
“Success that is not planned is merely a stroke of luck,” noted Edwin De los Santos. The pairing of AES Dominicana and Berklee creates a harmonious tune for the Dominican Republic.
Source mediaThe AES Dominicana family is experiencing growth…
Since 2014, AES has implemented a long-term strategy to incorporate local partners to support the expansion and strengthening of the business and accompany the growth of the energy industry with a sustainability vision, both in the Dominican Republic and Panama.
"We derive immense value from partnering with strong local players who provide valuable support as we transition our businesses in both markets," said Juan Ignacio Rubiolo, executive vice president and president of AES's Energy Infrastructure Strategic Business Unit.
The first step began on September 3, 2014, when AES Dominicana forged a strategic partnership with local entities Estrella and Linda in New York. Estrella and Linda acquired a minority stake in the energy company.
Integrating Estrella and Linda into the AES Dominicana family is a strategic move and a powerful symbol of our shared vision and commitment. This alliance is not just about improving the electricity sector in the Dominican Republic but about ushering in a new era of national development across various productive industries.
The earnest dedication of the signatories to contribute to the resolution offers a promising perspective for the future of the energy sector in the Dominican Republic.
The collaboration between Estrella and Linda is a pivotal element of AES's comprehensive long-term growth strategy in the Dominican Republic. This strategy, presented to the Dominican Republic authorities in December 2012, is a testament to our steadfast commitment to the country's energy sector. It is a commitment to a secure and prosperous future for the Dominican Republic, underscoring our unwavering presence.
The signing ceremony was graced by key figures in the energy sector, including Andrés Gluski, the Global President and CEO of AES Corporation; Edwin De Los Santos, the President of AES Dominicana; Manuel Estrella, the President of Estrella; and Felix García, the President of Grupo Linda, who served as delegates for the new collaborators, symbolizing the unity and shared vision of all parties involved.
The AES Dominicana group's integration of ENANDON and API Popular marks not an end, but the commencement of a new and promising chapter in its continuing saga of success.