The government of the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) is taking steps to reduce the cost of energy in the territory by installing solar panels on schools. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced last week that the USVI Department of Education and the V.I. Energy Office have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on the project, which aims to install solar panels on at least 10 public schools in the territory.

The initiative is part of the government’s larger goal of achieving a 60% reduction in fossil fuel consumption by 2025. The installation of solar panels on schools is expected to save the territory millions of dollars in energy costs each year.

The MOU establishes a framework for the two agencies to work together to design, install, and maintain solar energy systems on public school buildings. The project will also include training for students and staff on the use and benefits of solar energy.

According to the V.I. Energy Office, the project will be funded by a combination of federal grants and private investments, and the solar panels are expected to have a lifespan of over 20 years.

Governor Bryan stated that the project is a step towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for the USVI. He emphasized the importance of renewable energy in reducing the territory’s dependence on fossil fuels and building a more resilient energy infrastructure.

The installation of solar panels on public schools is just one of several initiatives being undertaken by the USVI government to promote renewable energy and reduce energy costs in the territory. Other efforts include the installation of solar panels on government buildings and the transition to electric vehicles in the government fleet.