U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (October 4, 2024) – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or the “Authority”) will join more than 2,000 community-powered, not-for-profit electric utilities that collectively provide electricity to 54 million Americans across 49 states and five territories to celebrate Public Power Week from October 6-12, 2024.

"Public Power Week is a time for us to reflect on the importance of community partnership in providing essential services like electricity and water," said Karl Knight, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director at the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority. " At WAPA, we’re proud to be powered by people who live and work right here in the Virgin Islands. Our local team is dedicated to serving our neighbors and businesses, which allows us to keep improving service, making it more affordable and reliable, while also reinvesting in our community.”

WAPA has been powering the Virgin Islands since 1964. A skilled team of over 500 Virgin Islanders operates two power plants, manages eight substations, oversees underground projects, and maintains more than 9,000 electrical poles, providing electrical service to residents and businesses across St. Croix, St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island.

Celebrating Public Power Week: Oct. 6-12

During Public Power Week, WAPA will be engaging with the youth in local schools to share the unique benefits of being a public utility, the positive impact public power has on our islands, and the importance of local employees who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our community running. In addition to school visits, we’ll also be sharing information via social media, radio, and television. Our goal is to educate and inspire, highlighting the essential services that public utilities provide and the role they play in the day-to-day lives of the Virgin Islands community.

To learn more about Public Power Week and WAPA’s ongoing commitment to the Virgin Islands, visit our newly launched Public Power webpage at www.viwapa.vi/publicpower and follow us on social media as we’re Powering Our Islands, Together.

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.

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