The Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye Rymer, has identified the expansion of renewable energy and improvements to water infrastructure as key priorities for progress in 2025, which highlights the Government's commitment to sustainability, resilience, and reliable public utilities. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Chief of Infrastructure Mr. Duane. A. Fraites addressing the the Government of the Virgin Islands’ Mid-Year Retreat on September 10, 2025. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Assistant Secretary Ms. Sharleen E Smith addressing the the Government of the Virgin Islands’ Mid-Year Retreat on September 10, 2025. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands.

Deputy Secretary Ms. Haley Trott addressing the Government of the Virgin Islands’ Mid-Year Retreat on September 10, 2025. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Speaking at the Government of the Virgin Islands’ Mid-Year Retreat on September 10, 2025, Honourable Rymer emphasised that advancements in both sectors are working in tandem to deliver long-term benefits for residents across the Territory.

The retreat brought together ministers and permanent secretaries to review accomplishments so far, outline priorities for the remainder of the 2025 budget year, and develop strategic priorities for 2026.

Renewable energy accomplishments

According to a press release issued by the Government of the Virgin Islands on September 12, 2025, a significant milestone has been reached on Anegada, where the power grid is now operating entirely on renewable energy, even as it undergoes final testing. This achievement marks a new era of energy independence and resilience, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and positioning Anegada as a model for the rest of the Virgin Islands.

Meanwhile, the Solar Technology Energy Programme (STEP) continues to expand, with contracts signed, solar panels installed on homes, and systems connected to the national grid to recycle excess power. So far, 170 applicants have registered for this program. Complementing this initiative, the Government has introduced a zero per cent customs duty on renewable energy products for the next five years, making solar and renewable technologies more affordable and accessible for households and businesses.

Plans for the water system

The press release further stated that running parallel to the renewable energy transition is a comprehensive overhaul of the water and wastewater network. A partnership with Operators Without Borders (OWB) is helping to reduce non-revenue water through training, technical expertise, and operational support.

Key initiatives underway include ongoing repairs to reservoirs, the installation of security fencing and lighting to safeguard reservoir sites, the replacement of aged distribution pipes to improve water reliability, the development of Standard Operating Procedures for efficiency and accountability, and a hydrology study paired with leak detection and targeted repairs.

The release continued, together, these efforts are aimed at securing the Territory’s water supply, modernising wastewater systems, and ensuring sustainable resource management.

Communications & Works impacts everyone

Minister Rymer emphasised the importance of these initiatives, stating, “Our Ministry’s work matters to everyone. It touches lives daily through water, electricity, transport, roads, ports and communication. When our budget was passed on December 19th, 2024, we were given a clear task. Our 2025 mandate was not a list of vague aspirations, but a concrete, funded plan to deliver to the people.” 

He noted that while challenges such as project delays, high costs, and tendering difficulties have arisen, the Ministry is exploring solutions such as stronger procurement oversight, stakeholder engagement, and public-private partnerships.

Honourable Rymer was joined at the Retreat by Permanent Secretary Mrs. Elvia Smith-Maduro, Deputy Secretary Ms. Haley Trott, Assistant Secretary Ms. Sharleen E. Smith, and Chief of Infrastructure Mr. Duane A. Fraites.