PARAMARIBO – In the coming period, Staatsolie will work more towards diversifying energy production. Besides its ethanol pilot-project in Wageningen, the oil company is also eyeing Suriname’s hydro-electric potential. It is seriously studying the Tapanahony-Jaikreek project (TapaJai-project). This is stated in the draft budget of the Ministry of Natural Resources (NH). During a press conference on Monday, President Desi Bouterse stated that the project will be carried out. One problem for the time being is the fact that under the Brokopondo agreement, all the water in the Van Blommenstein reservoir belongs to Suralco/Alcoa. Should the TapaJai-project be carried out, water from the Tapanahony River will be diverted to the reservoir via the Jaikreek, so the Afobaka hydropower plant can generate more electricity. Bouterse wants to discuss this matter with Suralco/Alcoa.
