Energynautics has successfully completed its second field mission to Aruba, marking a major milestone as the island’s government fleet electrification programme enters its final phase. Running from August 2025 to July 2026, the project is part of the EU-funded Green Overseas (GO) Programme. It supports the Government of Aruba in reducing transport-related emissions and fuel costs, serving as a practical model for vehicle fleet electrification.

Energynautics and the local consultancy Cornerstone Economics support the Government of Aruba in establishing a sustainable and efficient transport system. To overcome typical island constraints—such as grid capacity, high upfront costs, and battery waste disposal—the partners deployed a data-driven approach that combines real-world EV monitoring with detailed charging infrastructure assessment and total cost of ownership analysis. Additionally, the team evaluated and developed targeted options for managing end-of-life EV battery waste.

The expert team assisted local partners by focusing on four strategic aspects:

• Fleet Electrification Scenarios: Recommending a phased transition to achieve a 50% electrification rate for leased vehicles by 2030.
• TCO Purchasing Policy: Introducing a custom, editable Total Cost of Ownership tool to shift procurement decisions towards long-term savings.
• Charging Infrastructure: Evaluating grid capacity and ranking optimal charging locations based on vehicle GPS and idle-time.
• EV Battery Waste Plan: Outlining a circular framework, including a public-private partnership (PPP) model for a central collection facility.

The three-day field mission in June focused on close coordination with Aruban authorities. Organized by the Department of Economic Affairs, Commerce and Industry (DEACI), the meetings provided a platform for direct, targeted exchange. Energynautics’ CEO Dr. Eckehard Tröster met with Geoffrey Wever, Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and the Primary Sector, to discuss key project outcomes. The fleet transition plan was presented in a joint meeting of several ministries and government bodies, while Dr. Tröster presented the EV battery waste management plan to the Directorate of Nature and Environment (DNM) and other stakeholders. Further collaborative sessions were held with the Department of Public Works (DOW) to refine the purchasing policy.

Dr Eckehard Tröster at a meeting with Geoffrey Wever, Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs and the Primary Sector, Aruba (Copyright: Department of Economic Affairs, Commerce and Industry, DEACI)

The Thematic Programme for Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs) founded by the EU and implemented by Expertise France aims to increase resilience to the effects of climate change and to facilitate and support the development of low-carbon, energy efficient economies across 25 Overseas Countries and Territories.