Nat Energy signs agreement with Curacao agency

AN agreement between the National Energy Corporation Ltd (National Energy) and KTK Tugs of Curacao for the use of one of its vessels marks the beginning of a deepening relationship with Curacao.

So said National Energy’s president, Dr Vernon Paltoo, who said the agreement created new possibilities for the expansion of National Energy’s operations through regional integration.

KTK Tugs is in charge of towing, mooring and pilot-launching services in various ports of Curacao.

Paltoo, in a media release from National Energy, said the arrangement was on par with his company’s plan for the region.

National Energy said KTK was a fully-owned subsidiary of the Curaçao Ports Authority and, as such, the agreement was the first of its kind between two state agencies of TT and Curacao.

“The mutually beneficial arrangement will enhance National Energy's fleet of vessels to meet the growing demand of its customers locally, and regionally. The partnership also signals what is anticipated to be, a long-term relationship with KTK, as discussions are ongoing between the two companies for the acquisition of additional vessels.”

Similarly, National Energy said the arrangement would allow future acquisitions to be executed in a cost-effective manner, resulting in value enhancement for National Energy and (by extension) TT.

On Monday evening, the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands hosted a ceremony to commemorate the momentous partnership between the two state companies.

KTK’s managing director Surldric Rojer said KTK had been seeking ways to optimise the use of its assets regionally.

The release said the relationship between the companies developed during last year’s TT Energy Conference, where Dutch ambassador Jules Bijl facilitated the initial meeting between Prof Gerry Brooks, chairman of National Energy, and Rojer.

“Subsequent discussions led to the establishment of a memorandum of understanding which concluded with the recent contract signing between the two state agencies for use of the KTK vessel.”