Environment

Solar Micro-Grid Project Aims to Transform Energy Consumption at St. Croix Educational Complex

The V.I. Energy Office on Friday commenced construction of a state-of-the-art 125 kW solar micro-grid with a 300 kWh battery storage system at the St. Croix Educational Complex. The project, set to be completed by August 2023, will ensure the Complex's emergency hurricane shelter remains functional during extended power outages and significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuel generators, the officials said. The micro-grid project, funded by the Department of Interior's Energizing Insular Communities (EIC) grant, will not only enhance the resilience of the school's infrastructure but also offset approximately $6,000 per month in utility costs during normal operation. VIEO said it has previously utilized EIC grants to develop a public charging station network and procure electric vehicles for the territory. Notable attendees at the groundbreaking ceremony included Department of Education Commissioner Dionne Wells-Hedrington, Superintendent Ericilda Ottley-Herman, Governor Albert Br...