Why is the US Virgin Islands not resolving its energy problems?

The US Virgin Islands has yet to begin resolving its energy problems, which is hindering its economic growth. Hurricanes Maria and Irma destroyed much of the USVI’s energy infrastructure and further weakened an already unreliable and inefficient power grid.

How many solar energy systems are installed in the Virgin Islands?

Nearly 1,*500 solar energy systems have been installed throughout the territory. 15 MW of distributed solar PV are either in place or under construction. As a result, the Virgin Islands government has authorized $35 million in funding to install lighting and water retrofits in 34 more schools.

Will the Virgin Islands reduce fossil fuel use by 60% by 2025?

The Virgin Islands, with support from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE), have set a goal of reducing fossil fuel use by 60% by 2025.

Why should the US Virgin Islands own solar assets?

The US Virgin Islands should invest in solar assets for enhanced portfolio diversification and risk mitigation. WAPA ownership guarantees coverage by WAPA and FEMA during natural disasters, eliminating uncertainties (1. Enhanced Portfolio Diversity: WAPA diversifies its energy portfolio, ensuring a more resilient and sustainable future).

Is PREPA a sclerotic energy authority?

PREPA, the sclerotic energy authority of the Commonwealth, has been laid to rest and the transmission and distribution of energy have been privatized. Negotiations are ongoing to privatize the power generation as well, and negotiations have finally begun to address PREPA’s debt.

Is the US Virgin Islands a good place to start a wind farm?

The US Virgin Islands have been recognized as a regional leader in clean energy due to the success of collecting wind resource data for its first commercial wind farm. DOE’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory has collected the necessary data for this project.