Local News
BVIEC Working to Restore Power Generating Capacity in the British Virgin Islands
The Minister for Communication and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, has assured the public that the British Virgin Islands Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) is actively working to restore its power generating capacity to meet the needs of the Territory. The Minister emphasized that the government and the corporation are giving top priority to addressing the technical and operational issues affecting the reliability of the electrical power supply, as well as the water supply.
Minister Rymer acknowledged the inconvenience caused to the public by the current issues, including interruptions in the water supply, and offered his apologies. He stated, “Providing reliable and dependable utilities to the Territory is paramount to everyone. We are working tirelessly to resolve the issues, but we ask the public to bear with us while we implement the necessary solutions.”
Dr. Neil Smith, the General Manager at BVIEC, provided further insight into the challenges being faced. He explained that one of the largest generators at the plant is undergoing overhaul, while another is experiencing governor issues that require specialized attention from the manufacturers. Additionally, a smaller generating set has been awaiting assembly. Compounding the situation is the fact that the power consumption in the Territory is currently at its highest levels ever.
To manage the load on the power system, the corporation, in collaboration with public partners, has taken measures to regulate power consumption. As a result, the Seven Seas desalination plant, which consumes 4 Megawatts of energy at full capacity, has been periodically taken offline. This interruption affects water production and supply to customers.
Dr. Smith acknowledged the frustration experienced by individuals due to the present situation and offered his apologies. He appealed to the public to exercise patience as the necessary work is carried out to restore the power plant to its optimal load carrying capacity. Additionally, he urged the public to conserve electricity by reducing consumption, as this would not only lower electricity bills but also alleviate the strain on the power system, ultimately reducing disruptions to the electricity and water supply.
The BVIEC remains committed to providing the best possible service to its customers and contributing to the development of the Territory’s electrical infrastructure. The corporation aims to ensure that the entire population of the British Virgin Islands has access to reliable and continuous electricity at an affordable cost.
Education
Seven Young Ballers Embark on an Eight-Day Basketball Adventure in Orlando
Seven young boys from the British Virgin Islands are set to experience basketball at its finest as they head to Orlando, Florida From November 23 to 28. The ballerswill participate in the Jr. Orlando Magic Youth Basketball Camp, an opportunity that combines skill development, fun, and a front-row seat to the NBA world.
The trip is organised through Sports Vision Academy, led by Mr. Eustace “Boss” Freeman. The young athletes—Niquan Freeman, Kyle Gumbs Jr., Jahy Smith, Ke’mori Daway, Tiondre Martin, Jaiden Cameron, and Jadey Glasgow—will be accompanied by Freeman himself, alongside Jovaughn Cameron and Roy Garraway.
“It’s the first time attending this camp, and the boys will also get the opportunity to attend an NBA game as well,” Freeman shared enthusiastically. “They will witness the Bulls take on the Magic, which is bound to be an unforgettable experience.”
The camp promises not only to refine their basketball skills but also to expose them to professional-level gameplay and sportsmanship.
Freeman expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the trip possible, including the BVI Olympic Committee, Travel Wize LTD, and HNF. “Today’s youth are tomorrow’s stars,” Freeman said, reflecting on the impact this trip could have on the boys’ futures.
For these young ballers, this is more than a camp—it’s a chance to dream big and see where their talent can take them.
Crime/Police
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force (RVIPF) has made a major breakthrough in addressing a string of burglaries that had left communities across the Territory on edge. A 17-year-old male from Jost Van Dyke has been arrested and charged in connection with multiple burglaries in Butu Mountain, East End, Great Mountain, and Mount Healthy.
The young suspect faces four counts of burglary and one charge of criminal damage, marking a significant development in the RVIPF’s efforts to combat crime in the region.
“This arrest demonstrates our commitment to addressing the concerns of our residents and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” said Acting Commissioner of Police Jacqueline Vanterpool. She also called attention to the broader issue of youth involvement in criminal activities, emphasizing the need for community collaboration to tackle the problem. “It will take an all-hands-on-deck approach to solve this serious problem,” Vanterpool added.
While the arrest represents progress, police officials urge residents to remain vigilant. The RVIPF continues to seek information related to these burglaries and encourages the public to come forward with tips.
Anyone with relevant details can contact the RVIPF Intelligence Unit at 368-9339 or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 800-8477 (TIPS) or 1-284-800-8477.
Local News
Animal Lover Celebrates Birthday by Raising $2,500 for BVI Humane Society
-
Crime/Police7 days ago
Two Charged with Gun Possession Following Vessel Search in Frenchman’s Cay
-
Local News7 days ago
Tola Radio Battles Legal Dispute Over Shutdown, Calls for Public Support
-
Crime/Police2 weeks ago
K’Shawn Martin Wanted for Questioning in Shooting on Sandbox Road
-
Local News2 weeks ago
Virgin Islands Coach Earns Bodybuilding PRO Card in The Bahamas
-
Local News2 days ago
Virgin Islands Doubles Residency Requirement for Belonger Status
-
Entertainment2 weeks ago
Tortola Welcomes Exclusive Japanese Dining at 1748 Sushi Bar
-
Local News1 week ago
BVI Returns to OECS Swimming Championships, Secures Silver Medal
-
Crime/Police2 days ago
Teen Arrested in Connection With Series of Burglaries Across Virgin Islands