It makes all the sense of the world: use solar power to generate electricity for three sun-drenched Virgin Islands in the middle of the ocean. It makes so much more sense than relying on imported oil that has to barged in from thousands of miles away.
A $65 million deal for three solar companies to provide 15% of the Territory’s electricity was signed by the Governor.
John de Jongh Jr. said they agreed to pay for and construct six solar power installations on St. Croix and St. Thomas. The facilities will produce 18 megawatts of power for the Islands’ power grid. The cost will be an average of 16 to 17 cents a kilowatt hour, about a third of the current cost.
The agreements with the companies extend 20 to 25 years. Construction of the solar collector sites will take most of next year and begin after the Public Service Commission approves the rates.
“While no solar arrays will be placed on St. John or Water Island at this time,” the Governor said, “All customers throughout the territory will equally benefit from the lower energy costs to be realized from these installations.”
On St. John, “Solar Jeff” Smith has been installing systems for hot water, pool heaters and pumps, and other smaller applications.
Yeah, finally, a forward thinking decision for the islands that will benefit for the ages. Can this be the start of actually governing for the future instead of the special deals of the moment?
The world should use this kind of energy rather than those with companies monopolizing the market and having a bad reputation to the environment. People should realize this.
With the addition of solar energy, the Authority will be less dependent on more expensive fossil fuel. The 18 MW of solar power represents approximately 15% of the territory’s peak load demand and will help to reduce customer rates once fully installed. The deal will not only help St.John rather it will be helpful for entire environment.