Central inverters: a future-proof skid for large photovoltaic power plants. Photo Credit: SIEMENS ENERGY.
In a recent development that underscores Governor Albert Bryan Jr.'s vision for a sustainable energy future, the Water and Power Authority has engaged engineering firm Black & Veatech to undertake pivotal interconnection studies. This study, centered around a solar array project in St. Croix, is on track to be concluded within the next ninety days, setting the stage for a power purchase agreement with VI Electron.
This news surfaced during a Monday meeting convened to brief Governor Bryan on the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development's (HUD) application pertaining to the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) spending plan. The assembly, which witnessed participation from the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority and the WAPA task force, also offered insights into the broader trajectory of solar development in the territory.
Originally slated for a decision on Oct. 14, HUD's determination on the amendment of the CDBG spending plan—specifically to authorize WAPA to leverage CDBG funds for the acquisition of the Vitol propane terminal facility—has now been postponed to Dec. 12. If this amendment garners approval, the subsequent financial flow from HUD's CDBG would not only offset the preliminary $45 million disbursement of WAPA’s negotiated settlement with Vitol, but would also contribute an additional $100 million to complete the deal. During a recent interview with the Consortium, Governor Bryan radiated confidence regarding the prospective nod from HUD, projecting that “it’s gonna happen”.
Diving deeper into the territory's energy blueprint, Government House Communications Director Richard Motta Jr. spotlighted the forthcoming activation of four Wartsila engines on St. Thomas, optimized for propane utilization. Motta forecasts the engines' full operational status by mid-December. This expansion will fortify WAPA's arsenal with a total of seven fuel-efficient generators stationed at the Randolph Hartley power plant. Once installed, the new generators are expected to bolster the reliability of the power grid and simultaneously curtail operational expenditures—a transformation Motta envisions will resonate positively with residents.
The final update referenced a recently published request for proposals by the V.I. Public Finance Authority seeking turnaround management consulting services for WAPA. According to Motta, reporting on the Governor’s task force meeting, this presents “a significant opportunity for qualified consulting companies to support the revitalization of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority.” The stipulation that WAPA engage such a firm was attached to Bill 35-0070, which established the $100 million line of credit that Governor Bryan had initially wanted to use to facilitate the completion of the settlement agreement between the utility and Vitol. The measure, according to Motta, provides for “the engagement of a turnaround management consulting company to oversee WAPA’s operations and financial structuring.”
Advertisements
