Local News
BVIEC’s STEP Initiative Set to Slash Electricity Bills by 50%
Minister of Communication & Works, Kye Rymer, announced the launch of the Solar Technology Energy Program (STEP) at a press conference today, April 18, highlighting its potential to slash electricity costs for residential customers by up to 50%.
The STEP initiative, spearheaded by the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC), aims to alleviate the burden of high electricity bills while advancing the transition to cleaner energy sources.
“Under the STEP initiative, BVIEC will cover the upfront costs of equipment and installation, marking a significant departure from traditional models,” Minister Rymer explained. “Participants will benefit from grid tie systems, harnessing solar energy to offset reliance on imported fuel and reduce overall electricity expenses.”
Minister Rymer emphasised the critical importance of sustainable energy adoption, particularly in the face of global challenges and the imperative to combat climate change.
“National outcome number nine of the National Sustainable Development Plan speaks to the adoption of sustainable energy, which would lower our reliance on imported fuel and introduce more renewable types of energy,” stated Minister Rymer, underlining the government’s commitment to fostering cleaner and more affordable energy solutions for the territory.
The initiative, Minister Rymer emphasized, is designed to empower residents and enhance the territory’s resilience against external economic shocks. By leveraging duty-free import status and strategic procurement practices, BVIEC aims to procure components at the lowest possible cost, ensuring maximum savings for participants.
“To facilitate widespread adoption, BVIEC will engage certified installers, providing them with invaluable experience in solar technology installation,” Minister Rymer noted. “This not only supports the STEP program but also fosters new business ventures aligned with the territory’s climate change agenda.”
Minister Rymer urged residents to register their interest in the STEP program, emphasising its role in driving economic growth and improving quality of life in the Virgin Islands. With projected payback periods as short as under two years, the initiative promises tangible benefits for both participants and the broader community.
In a tangible example provided by Minister Rymer, a customer with an annual usage of 15,624 kilowatts could expect savings of over $2,700 per year with the implementation of a grid tie system, demonstrating the transformative potential of solar technology in reducing electricity costs.
Local News
Virgin Islands Set for Crown Land Management Overhaul with New Legislation
Crime/Police
Stabbing Incident Leaves Inmate Injured at His Majesty’s Prison
A stabbing incident that occurred on May 12 at His Majesty’s Prison, resulted in inmate Shakeel Ryan being transported to Dr. Orlando Smith Hospital for medical treatment.
Meanwhile, another individual has been apprehended and is currently being questioned at the Road Town Police Station.
Ryan, who is incarcerated for conspiracy to murder, remained hospitalised at the time of publication.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are still unclear, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
Local News
Heavy Rains Damage Retaining Wall at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate
The retaining wall at the Social Security-funded homes in Joe’s Hill Manor Estate sustained substantial damage after heavy rains inundated the territory on May 7 and 8, leaving significant damage at multiple sites across the area.
Fortunately, no injuries have been reported thus far, but efforts are underway to assess the full extent of the damage and ensure the safety of all affected areas.
In addition to the damage at Joe’s Hill Manor Estate, the torrential rains caused widespread flooding on the streets, with businesses on Flemming Street bearing the brunt of the floodwaters. The situation was compounded by erosion, landslides, and flash flooding on Virgin Gorda, rendering access to North Sound via Valley impassable and posing hazardous conditions for residents.
As a result of the adverse weather conditions, several banks across the region, including Bank of Asia (BVI), CIBC Caribbean, First Bank Virgin Islands, National Bank of the Virgin Islands, Popular, Republic Bank (BVI) and VP Bank (BVI), were forced to close their doors.
In a precautionary move to prioritise public safety, all public schools across the territory were closed. However, as of today, May 9, they have reopened, except for Elmore Stoutt High School, which will resume face-to-face sessions on Friday, May 10th, 2024.
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