U.S. Virgin Islands Receives $500,000 Boost from EPA for Climate Action Planning

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has announced a significant stride in support of the U.S. Virgin Islands’ (USVI) climate change mitigation efforts through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA). EPA Regional Administrator Lisa F. Garcia, in concert with V.I. Energy Office Director Kyle Fleming and notable officials, unveiled a $500,000 grant awarded to the VIEO. This grant, funded under the EPA’s Climate Pollution Reduction Grant Program, is dedicated to crafting a thorough climate action plan for the USVI.

The allocated funds are designed to spearhead the development of strategies to lower greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in key sectors such as electricity, industry, transportation, buildings, agriculture, and waste management. The initiative is geared towards identifying GHG reduction opportunities and evaluating the impact of energy efficiency measures.

Lisa F. Garcia shared her excitement about the project, underscoring the critical role the Caribbean islands play in the fight against climate change. “Residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands are acutely aware of the pressing need to curtail sources of greenhouse gas emissions. This grant represents a significant advance in our collective efforts to mitigate climate change effects,” she remarked.

Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett echoed Garcia’s enthusiasm, commending the grant as a pivotal development in the territory’s battle against climate change. She highlighted the dedication of the VIEO and Kyle Fleming in securing this crucial support.

Kyle Fleming addressed the immediate and profound impact of climate change on the USVI, stressing the importance of strategic action and pollution reduction for the territory’s sustainable future. He regards the CPRG planning funds as essential in safeguarding the environment while promoting economic resilience and cultural preservation for generations to come.

The announcement also shone a light on future funding opportunities through the Climate Pollution Reduction Implementation Grants. This upcoming phase of the CPRG program, which commenced in September 2023 with a $4.6 billion fund, focuses on executing projects outlined in Priority Climate Action Plans by planning grant recipients. The Virgin Islands, having chosen the planning grant path, stand to benefit from an allocation of approximately $300 million earmarked for territories and Indian Nations under this scheme.

For additional details on the CPRG Program, including resources for training, tools, and technical assistance, interested individuals are encouraged to visit the EPA’s dedicated webpages.