St. John’s Path to Becoming a Solar-Powered Leader: Insights from VIElectron at WAPA Meeting

During the recent meeting of the Water and Power Authority (WAPA) governing board, the conversation illuminated the progressive strides of VIElectron, a local solar development firm, in their journey to transform the USVI’s energy landscape. VIElectron’s representatives detailed their ongoing efforts in adherence to the power purchase agreements established with WAPA.

The dialogue, initially met with reluctance from WAPA board counsel to delve into certain aspects of the agreements with VIElectron, shifted focus when board member Cheryl Boynes-Jackson inquired about the specific plans for St. John.

VIElectron’s founder, Christian Loranger, shared the company’s strategic approach, highlighting the completion of their St. Croix projects within the current year as a primary objective, followed by initiatives on St. Thomas. He emphasized the project timelines hinged on the permitting process’s swiftness, expressing optimism about the absence of anticipated hurdles and the progress made thus far.

Regarding St. John, Loranger noted the delay due to an ongoing legal matter over the property, yet remained positive about reaching a timely resolution and advancing the project.

The vision for St. John is ambitious – to become the largest USVI community entirely powered by solar energy. Loranger conveyed this goal, stating their intent to operate St. John on a seamless solar and battery system, with a standby connection to St. Thomas for emergency scenarios.

To achieve this, Loranger announced plans to propose modifications to the power purchase agreement for St. John. This would encompass an expansion in solar power generation and enhanced battery storage capacity. The goal is to not only meet peak demand reliably but also to channel surplus energy back to St. Thomas, marking a significant milestone in sustainable energy efforts in the region.