U.S. Virgin Islands (April 24, 2026) — The Governing Board of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”) met yesterday to review and approve initiatives focused on strengthening energy reliability and advancing infrastructure projects across the Territory.
The Board approved up to $300,000 in additional funding for West Peak Energy’s project management support, increasing the total contract to $5.49 million for the Wärtsilä Phase 2 Construction Project.
West Peak continues to provide technical support for the LPG Permanent Interconnection, including procurement and installation of two new pumps at the LPG terminal, along with oversight of remaining milestones, system integration, and final closeout.
The Board also approved a $35,251.20 cost increase and 10-day extension for the Hannah’s Rest Phase I Undergrounding Project, bringing the total to $7.37 million and extending completion to April 14, 2026, funded through FEMA. The adjustment reflects public safety-related scheduling delays during the Crucian Christmas Festival. Once completed, the project will enhance grid resilience by converting overhead lines to underground infrastructure, hardening portions of Feeder 8B against weather-related outages.
In financial matters, the Board approved renewal of WAPA’s primary and excess liability insurance at approximately $514,962, a modest increase of under 3% from the prior year, with financing expected to remain below 7%. This ensures continued protection of the Authority’s operations and assets at a stable cost.
Shifting from infrastructure and financial items, WAPA leadership also discussed the future of customer experience, including efforts to improve service delivery through expanded kiosk access, modernized online payment options, and a potential mobile application to provide customers with easier account access and greater convenience.
“Our discussions often focus on operations, but just as important is the customer experience,” said Karl Knight, WAPA CEO and Executive Director. “We recognize the need to continue improving how customers interact with WAPA by making service more accessible, responsive, and modern.”
These efforts reflect WAPA’s continued investment in critical infrastructure, responsible financial management, and a commitment to improving customer-focused service.