Virgin Islands university focusing on solar energy
University of Virgin Islands signs agreement to create solar energy systems on its 2 campuses
CHARLOTTE AMALIE, U.S. Virgin Islands (AP) -- The University of the Virgin Islands has signed a power-purchasing agreement with an Illinois-based energy company to create solar energy systems on the school's two campuses.
At a Tuesday signing ceremony, university President David Hall said the school's goal is to become completely energy independent in the coming years.
New Generation Power's Veriown Energy Inc. will build and maintain photovoltaic installations on the school's campuses on the islands of St. Thomas and St. Croix. The systems are expected to generate 4.5 million kilowatts of electricity a year and could be operational by the end of the year.
University officials estimate the school could save as much as $1 million annually by lessening its reliance on the local power authority, which uses fossil fuels to generate electricity.
