ST. THOMAS, VIRGIN ISLAND — As the Virgin Islands continues to grapple with a decades-old energy crisis, the Virgin Islands Housing Finance Authority (VIHFA) and Teri Helenese, Director, State-Federal Relations and Washington Representative have stepped forward with an interim, and practical solution to address the challenges faced by customers of the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA). Acknowledging the commendable progress made by Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Tregenza Roach’s administration toward a cleaner, more sustainable energy future, VIHFA and Helenese agree that the people of the Virgin Islands cannot wait any longer for relief from skyrocketing utility bills, frequent outages, appliance-damaging power surges, and disrupted lives.
“I have been tirelessly researching energy relief opportunities for the Virgin Islands, speaking with every relevant department, and narrowing the scope to find the most effective solution,” said Helenese. “The energy relief funding from the Departments of Energy and Human Services has been depleted, but I refused to let that stop me from advocating for our residents.”
In a crucial step, Helenese partnered with VIHFA Director Eugene Jones and his team to develop a bold Energy State of Emergency business case. Her plea for action is rooted in the values of compassion and service resonated with Jones and his team. Together, they crafted a plan to provide advanced energy stabilization systems to households across the Virgin Islands, helping families safeguard their appliances from power surges caused by WAPA’s inconsistent power supply.
“These energy stabilizers may seem like a small measure, but for families struggling to make ends meet, they can make a world of difference,” Helenese explained. “They are designed to prevent costly repairs or replacements, and they offer peace of mind to those who simply cannot afford more financial strain.”
VIHFA anticipates the project to begin in the first quarter of 2025, marking another significant step towards energy relief efforts.
VIHFA and Helenese are exploring Phase II, which focuses on vegetation pruning to reduce the frequency of outages caused by branches falling on power lines—another measure aimed at stabilizing power for the residents in the USVI.
“Achieving sustainable progress towards providing effective energy solutions for Virgin Islanders is a multi-faceted, multi-phased undertaking that requires the vision, leadership and goodwill of many stakeholders,” stated Director Jones. “Working together with Teri Helenese and other public servants, we are committed to putting in the hard work to find solutions that will meet our needs and make sense for our communities. As we envision the next phase of our work, we will continue to insist on collaboration, transparency, and proper governance from all parties.”
With inflation, the rising cost of living, and the continued stress of recovering from Hurricanes Irma and Maria, many residents—particularly those living at or near the poverty level—desperately need energy relief. “Our people cannot afford to keep replacing appliances damaged by inconsistent power,” said Helenese. “They need solutions both large and small, and I am committed to working with VIHFA and other partners to deliver immediate, meaningful relief.”
While these efforts are not a cure-all for the Territory’s broader energy challenges and issues related to WAPA operations, they represent a critical, immediate response to the day-to-day struggles Virgin Islanders face. “The larger goals of energy independence and renewable energy must continue, but we must also act on behalf of the people now,” said Helenese. “Our residents deserve solutions today.”
VIHFA and Helenese’s plan offers a clear, compassionate, and interim response to the Virgin Islands’ energy challenges—with a focus on both short-term relief and long-term sustainability to promote energy resilience, increase energy efficiency, and enhance home safety.
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