"As we strive to 'Go Green' and foster sustainable development, more efficient use of brown spaces must be made to reduce the impact on our natural environment and precious natural resources such as our immaculate beaches and stunning views," Premier Fahie said as part of remarks on the initiative on December 12, 2019.

Committed to Green Economy

Hon Fahie continued, "I am happy to learn from the team at BVIEC that it issued a Request For Proposals (RFP) for the installation of a combined solar PV and Battery Energy Storage System on the island of Anegada," which he said will result in empowerment for the people.

According to the Premier, some 135 companies requested BVIEC’s RFP and of those, 29 companies have chosen to advance in the bidding process by being present at the mandatory site visit.

"To some, this may be a small project but for the BVI this is a great success, as it confirms and signals my Government’s commitment to the establishment of a “Green Economy”.

He said the government’s goal is to have 60% renewable by 2030 and the single Hybrid Renewable Energy system project will ensure Anegada is 80% renewable by 2021.

Anegada Electricity Costly

The Premier also revealed that due to Anegada not being connected to the main electricity grid which supplies the remainder of the VI, the cost to produce energy on the island is significantly greater.

He said, however, that residents of Anegada still have to pay the same rates as everyone else in the Territory.

"BVIEC has been subsidising this difference from the inception of providing service on that Sister Island. And this project will assist in reducing significantly the quantum of that subsidy," Hon Fahie said.