Minister for Communications and Works, Hon Kye M. Ryner (R5) has said the continuous subsidising of fuel by the government is not a sustainable solution when it comes to electricity costs. Photo: YouTube

Virgin Islanders are urged to sign up for the Solar Technology Energy Program. Photo: Internet Source

Hon Rymer said this during a press conference on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, which was called to provide details on the high electricity bills received by BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC) customers in August. A credit to September 2026 bills has been promised by BVIEC. 

Hon Rymer told BVIEC customers, “We will help you through this process as best as possible. We live today without security for tomorrow.”

He added that while the immediate crisis must be addressed, the bigger picture must also be recognised. 

“We said from the beginning that we would review the subsidy after the three month period ended because we anticipated that the conflict in the region would have subsided by now. Unfortunately, that has not happened and we have to adapt. However, repeatedly subsidising imported diesel is not a sustainable solution.”

On Thursday, April 16, 2026, the Premier of the Virgin Islands, Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), announced that the Government would subsidise electricity for customers by one million dollars per month for three months, effective immediately. That has since ended. 

Renewable energy is the answer

Hon Rymer said the long-term answer is to reduce the Virgin Islands’ dependence on imported fuel. “That is why our renewable energy transition is critical.”

He added that the demand for solar systems under the Solar Technology Energy Programme (STEP) has increased dramatically, however that pace of installation has not kept pace. 

“We focused on building local talent first which was the right thing to do but the need is immediate and urgent,” Hon Rymer explained. 

He said since then the BVIEC have been asked to enhance its effort to engage installers for STEP from within and beyond the VI, as well as to train local businesses that are interested in this field. 

“Our local businesses must be active participants in the growth of this new industry. It is aimed at making our energy costs more affordable.”

BVIEC, he added, has begun progressing with an aggressive and structured programme to install systems more quickly and facilitate longer term capacity building for local businesses, tradesmen and tradeswoman. 

“If you want to participate, we want to hear from you,” Hon Rymer urged.