Residents of Virgin Gorda are to be provided with 480,000 imperial gallons of water daily following the signing of a Water Solution Agreement between The Government of the Virgin Islands and Aqua Design (BVI) Ltd.

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Mark Vanterpool signed on behalf of Government while Global Business Leader for GE, Mr. Robert Gorgol signed on behalf of Aqua Design (BVI) Ltd.

Honourable Mark Vanterpool said that Aqua Design (BVI) Ltd.’s contract is to build, own and operate a new water plant on Virgin Gorda, and to replace the existing plant, which is old and has come to the end of its useful life.

Work is expected to be executed over the next four to six months and will raise the current production level of 320,000 imperial gallons to 480,000 imperial gallons of potable water to residents on the sister island.

The contract is for a period of seven years with the option of renewal for another seven years.

In addition to realising an increase in volume of water that will be produced, the Government will now pay Aqua Design $12.46 for each 1,000 gallon produced.

Minister Vantertpool said, “With a production of 480,000 imperial gallons per day, the total savings that we expect for the Territory will be approximately $1.3 million per annum, at a cost of $12.46 versus $20.00.”

Mr. Gorgol thanked the Government for renewing its contract with the company and added that Aqua Design (BVI) Ltd. will be investing $2 million in upgrading its facilities at Handsome Bay and North Sound.

Aqua Design (BVI) Ltd. has been doing business with the Virgin Islands since 1988. The Company owns four plants in the Territory, with two other plants in Sea Cows Bay and Capoon’s Bay.