St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) welcomed U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Secretary Adrianna Todman to its St. Croix Business Office today, where she received an in-depth overview of several critical infrastructure projects funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.
During the visit, WAPA provided updates on key initiatives aimed at strengthening the territory’s utility infrastructure, including the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at the Richmond Power Plant, ongoing tank stabilization efforts, and the continued development of renewable energy sources.
Secretary Todman’s visit underscores the importance of federal partnerships in addressing infrastructure challenges and advancing disaster recovery across the Virgin Islands.
WAPA has made substantial progress in enhancing energy reliability and affordability, particularly through the acquisition of the Vitol propane terminal via the CDBG-Mitigation program. This transition provides WAPA with more control over the propane supply, reduces dependence on external operators, and positions the Authority to achieve long-term fuel cost stability and greater reliability by 2025.
In addition, WAPA is advancing multiple grid stabilization projects, such as the BESS at the Richmond Power Plant, which will improve voltage regulation and support faster recovery from outages. The Tank Stabilization Project is also underway, with pending HUD approval for geotechnical studies and design to support future infrastructure improvements.
WAPA CEO and Executive Director Karl Knight emphasized the importance of federal and local collaboration, stating, “Secretary Todman’s visit highlights the critical role that partnerships play in the success of infrastructure projects. We are proud of the progress we’ve made and remain committed to leveraging these collaborations to deliver reliable and sustainable services to the Virgin Islands community.”
Secretary Todman commended WAPA’s leadership, particularly the expertise of the team members who presented during the visit. She acknowledged the vital role that the CDBG program has played in supporting essential projects, such as the upgrades to the Richmond Power Plant and the Phase II Wärtsilä project in St. Thomas. WAPA continues to work closely with HUD, the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority (VIHFA), and other partners to ensure efficient use of disaster recovery funds and the timely completion of these projects.
CEO Knight also reflected on the importance of the federal and local support in making significant strides. “The acquisition of the propane terminals has been a game-changer for the territory, providing us with more efficient, lower-cost fuel. For the first time, we will be sourcing LPG on the open market, giving us greater flexibility and reliability for our customers. We are grateful for the opportunity to achieve this milestone for the Virgin Islands.”
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority remains dedicated to keeping the public informed and engaged through transparent, effective communication, ensuring that the territory’s energy future is brighter and more reliable for all.
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