The Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Communications and Works, is preparing to integrate renewable energy sources as part of the electricity infrastructure in the Territory.

The Ministry of Communications and Works is anticipating that by 2023, thirty percent of the Territory’s power will be generated by renewable energy sources through the use of wind, solar, waste and waste heat.

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool says that it is imperative to get this initiative implemented quickly.

Additionally, as part of the move to incorporate greater use of renewable energy,   the Government of the Virgin Islands will also be replacing the old street light system with a modern LED (Light Emitting Diode) system that uses solar power for the street lights throughout the Territory.

These combined efforts are designed to reduce the Territory’s dependency on imported fossil fuels, reflecting the Government’s global responsibility to reduce the Territory’s carbon footprint. Currently the British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation Phase V Development Programme is underway and will have two 8.1 MW Wartsilla Engines installed in order to satisfy the demand in the Territory.                    

In collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour and the Ministry of Health and Social Development, the Ministry of Communications and Works continues to develop strategies to allow the Government to ultimately improve the quality of life for residents through a cleaner environment for the wider community.

The Ministry of Communications and Works stands ready in ensuring that the Territory achieves its stated objectives of reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels, and providing  a sustainable energy supply for the population, while maintaining a clean environment.