30. Electricity
Electricity in Aruba is quite expensive compared to North America and Europe, primarily because over 80% of the island's power is generated using imported fossil fuels. Residential electricity rates average around $0.21-0.28 per kilowatt-hour (AWG 0.38/kWh), with monthly bills typically ranging from $150-300 USD, especially when using air conditioning extensively. Many vacation rentals and Airbnbs include a certain allowance for electricity (often $100-125), with guests paying for any usage above that amount.
WEB Aruba N.V. generates all electricity on the island, which is then distributed by ELMAR N.V. – both are government-owned companies under Utilities Aruba. Because cooling accounts for about 50% of energy demand and electricity is expensive, you'll notice that locals and property owners are very conscious about AC usage. It's common courtesy to turn off air conditioning when leaving your accommodation, and many rental properties will specifically ask guests to be mindful of electricity consumption.
The island is actively working toward renewable energy independence, with wind farms already providing about 13-15% of the island's electricity and solar projects expanding at sites like Queen Beatrix Airport. While electricity is expensive, power outages are extremely rare, and the supply is very reliable across the entire island.