ST. JOHN, U.S. Virgin Islands (July 11, 2025) — The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) brought energy, education, and excitement to St. John youth on Friday, July 11, 2025, during an outreach
visit to campers from the Dr. Carla Sewer’s Art & Literacy Workshop, held in partnership with the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park at Cinnamon Bay.
Roy Freeland, WAPA Certified Lineman 1st Class (top) shows curious campers the safety tools used to keep electricity flowing across the island. Joseph Wrensford, WAPA Water Plant Operations Supervisor (bottom) speaks with kids about how clean water reaches their homes.
WAPA’s Communications team, Water Distribution members, and linecrews visited the summer camp and connected with 15 curious and energetic campers, ranging in age from 4 to 13. The interactive visit focused on the journey of safe drinking water from
the ocean to homes on the island, and the critical role of solar energy in creating a more sustainable Virgin Islands.
The children learned how WAPA supports the community through solar power and safe water, including how its partner, Seven Seas Group, uses reverse osmosis to turn seawater into safe drinking water. They also explored why saving energy matters and how
solar power, in partnership with VIElectron and VIRAPC, is helping to create a cleaner, brighter future for all Virgin Islanders.
One of the highlights of the visit was the hands-on demonstration by WAPA’s linecrew, who shared stories about their daily work and showed campers the tools they use every day, including the grant-funded hybrid bucket truck. The children were thrilled
to see the equipment up close, sparking curiosity about how electricity is delivered and maintained across the island by members of their community.
“We’re always proud to educate our young residents and help them understand their power and water sources and the people behind our essential services” said WAPA Communications Director, Shanell Petersen. “Engagement on St. John
plants seeds of curiosity and sustainability in the next generation.”
By connecting with the campers, WAPA reinforced its dedication to educating and inspiring the territory’s youth—encouraging them to take an interest in clean energy and conservation.
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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