Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7) has said the Virgin Islands (VI) is committed to the transformation of its electric power infrastructure. Photo: Government of the Virgin Islands

Over 100 lineworkers representing utility companies from the region and the international community are in the Virgin Islands for the three day event. Photo: CARILEC

Premier Wheatley was giving remarks on Friday, April 25, 2025, during the opening ceremony of the 2025 CARLEC Lineworkers Rodeo, Symposium and Field Safety Training at the Eileene L. Parsons Auditorium, H. Lavity Stoutt Community College (HLSCC) campus in Paraquita Bay.

This is the first time the annual CARILEC event is being held in the VI, and this year’s theme is ‘Informed. Empowered. Safe’. 

He said this commitment to transforming the territory’s electricity infrastructure includes transitioning to sustainable resources. 

Electricity transformation already began

“On Anegada, one of our main islands, we are on the verge of transitioning the island's power to 90 percent solar-generated, with a solar farm project nearing completion,” the Premier stated. 

He also said his government has implemented incentives aimed at encouraging residents and businesses to transition to solar energy. 

The transition to solar energy, Dr Wheatley said, comes with “the option of selling excess power back to the grid to recoup the set-up cost and eventually provide participating customers with some income”. 

Growing demand for skilled workers

The Premier added that through the HLSCC, several persons have been trained in solar installation, repair, and maintenance.

“As these initiatives gain momentum, the Virgin Islands will experience a growing demand for skilled professionals, private entrepreneurs, and the BVI Electricity Corporation to deliver the necessary services,” he said. 

Dr Wheatley continued that he anticipates similar trends emerging in other countries. 

“This underscores the critical importance of the work being done by CARILEC and its members. We must continue cultivating top-tier talent—individuals who are well-informed, empowered, and committed to prioritizing safety above all else.”