U S Virgin Islands flat solar collectors

Why is solar power important in the USVI?

The USVI's abundant solar resource, with a global horizontal irradiation of nearly 6 kWh/square meter-day, makes solar power economically attractive in the USVI.

What is the cost of electricity in the USVI?

The electricity rates in the USVI are $0.47 per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This is higher than the Caribbean regional average of $0.33/kWh.

What does USVI Act 7075 entail?

In 2009, the USVI passed Act 7075—an energy policy that focuses on reducing fuel imports, expanding fuel diversity, and increasing energy self-sufficiency. The Act specified several provisions, including: Mandatory installation of energy-efficient solar water heating systems on all new construction and government buildings by 2020.

Do St Thomas and St Croix have electricity?

As of late 2014, both St. Thomas and St. John were served by one electrical grid run by the Virgin Island Water and Power Authority (WAPA). St. Croix, however, has a separate electrical grid in the WAPA service area. More than 1,000 distributed renewable energy systems were connected to the WAPA grid.

How does oil affect the cost of electricity in the USVI?

The USVI, like many island nations, is heavily reliant on fossil fuels for electricity generation. This reliance leaves the USVI vulnerable to global oil price fluctuations, which directly impact the cost of electricity. Assumes an average electricity price of $0.50/kWh and consumption of 767.4 gigawatt-hours (GWh).

How many solar water heating and PV systems are there?

Approximately 1,500 solar water heating and PV systems have been installed throughout the territory since February 2010. Currently, 15 MW of distributed solar PV are either in place or under construction.