The Virgin Islands Public Services Commission has launched a rate investigation into the Water and Power Authority as part of its statutory review, while also receiving updates on multiple renewable energy efforts during its regular meeting Tuesday.
The rate investigation, required every five years, will evaluate WAPA’s electric and water systems in hopes of improving service and addressing ongoing financial hurdles. According to a PSC press release, commissioners tabled the staff report to allow time for finalizing a hearing examiner and technical consultants to ensure “a thorough and accurate analysis.”
WAPA representatives briefed the commission on solar and battery storage developments, noting 14 megawatts of solar generation now online on St. Croix and 5 megawatts on St. Thomas. Integrated battery storage systems are being used to stabilize output and improve grid reliability. WAPA also finalized an energy storage agreement with VIElectron at the Petronella site on St. Croix, where battery technology is being deployed to manage power flow and improve grid efficiency, the press release stated.
Efforts to secure new fuel supply contracts and bolster reserves ahead of hurricane season are also underway, WAPA officials said. The authority emphasized its commitment to paying solar providers on time and continuing infrastructure upgrades and strategic partnerships to build resilience and expand renewable capacity.
Commissioners were also updated on the Advanced Power wind-to-energy initiative, which is progressing through the U.S. Department of Energy’s Title 17 Clean Energy Program. The initiative, with sites on St. Croix and St. Thomas, has completed site leases and is in technical review. Project lead Joel Hart told the commission that the team is working to secure long-term financing, with completion expected within nine months. He acknowledged prior payment issues but said the project retains strong federal support due to its potential to cut energy costs and expand renewables, the release stated.
On St. John, AST Cleantech’s waste-to-energy project is nearing the final stages of its land lease application. The company has begun community outreach, drawing support from local groups such as Love City Strong and recycling advocates. AST is collaborating with WAPA and the Waste Management Authority to draft a power purchase agreement. The initial phase will serve as a pilot for waste diversion, which currently costs the territory about $2.8 million annually in transfer expenses, it said.
Commissioners Pedro Williams, David Hughes, and Clement Magras were present at the meeting. Commissioners Raymond Williams, Laura Nichols-Samms, and ex-officio member Sen. Carla Joseph were excused. An executive session was held to discuss pending legal and administrative matters, but no action was taken.
