U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS (January 27, 2025) – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or the “Authority) hosted an engaging outreach event last Friday at Bertha C. Boschulte Middle School on St. Thomas, inspiring students to learn about solar energy and clean energy initiatives. The event, part of WAPA's ongoing efforts to educate the community about sustainable energy solutions, introduced students to innovative methods of power generation and highlighted the benefits of solar energy.

WAPA representatives shared a variety of exciting projects and initiatives aimed at advancing clean energy in the Virgin Islands. Students learned about three solar farms in the Virgin Islands already harnessing the sun's energy to power homes and businesses – the Donoe Solar Farm on St. Thomas and the Petronella and Spanish Town Solar Farms on St. Croix.

The students also learned how Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) improve energy reliability, sustainability, and emergency preparedness across the Virgin Islands. WAPA demonstrated how it uses battery storage systems to store energy for later use at the Randolph Harley Power Plant on St. Thomas and store solar energy at the Petronella Solar Farm on St. Croix. This ensures a steady supply of energy even when the sun isn’t shining or there is reduced generation capacity at the power plant.

The event also featured an interactive solar oven challenge, where students were invited to build their own simple solar ovens to make s’mores, providing a fun, hands-on way to learn how solar energy can be harnessed for everyday use.

WAPA remains dedicated to advancing clean energy initiatives and fostering a culture of energy awareness and sustainability within the community.

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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