TORTOLA, BVI – Premier and Finance Minister Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley unveiled the Solar Technology Energy Programme (S.T.E.P.) as a crucial initiative aimed at promoting sustainable energy in the Virgin Islands during a recent contract signing ceremony. This program signifies a substantial leap towards cleaner energy solutions.
“The S.T.E.P. initiative is set to cut electricity bills by up to 50 percent for participating residents, reflecting our government’s dedication to sustainable energy practices,” stated the Premier.
Developed by the Ministry of Communications and Works, the S.T.E.P. program aims to alleviate consumers’ energy costs by installing high-quality solar panels and inverters at eligible participants’ properties. This grid-tied system enables customers to earn credits for any surplus energy fed back to the electricity grid.
Kye M. Rymer, Minister for Communications and Works, emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming the Territory’s energy sector. “With a $1 million investment in this initiative, we are taking significant steps not only to reduce costs but also to move towards a sustainable future by lessening our dependence on traditional fuel sources,” he remarked.
Rymer also encouraged the Electricity Corporation to broaden the scope of solar technologies included in S.T.E.P.: “I challenge our team to consider innovative solutions, such as solar water heaters, solar-powered air conditioning units, and energy-efficient appliances, as part of future expansions of the program.”
In addition, Dr. Neil Smith, General Manager of the Electricity Corporation, announced that all upfront expenses for equipment and installation will be covered, making the program accessible to homeowners and promoting significant savings on their electricity bills. Energy consumed directly from the solar system will incur a minimal demand charge of $0.10 per kilowatt-hour.
Participant Wade Tobin expressed his commitment to renewable energy, stating, “Joining this program has provided us the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills needed to build a greener future for ourselves and future generations.”
The ceremony also highlighted future plans to incorporate additional solar technologies like solar water heaters and energy-efficient appliances into the S.T.E.P. initiative.
The Ministry of Communications and Works remains dedicated to the continuous enhancement of public infrastructure, ensuring reliability and affordability of utilities, thereby improving the quality of life for residents and visitors in the Virgin Islands. Interested individuals can find more information about the program through available channels.
