U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS – September 7, 2024 – The Virgin Islands Water & Power Authority (“WAPA” or the “Authority”) announces unexpected delays of the diesel delivery initially scheduled for today for the St. Thomas/St. John district.  Securing fuel for the Virgin Islands is a complex and coordinated effort that involves several critical steps to ensure safety, efficiency, and reliability throughout the process.

Fuel delivery was delayed due to high demand at the fuel terminal in Puerto Rico that prevented the fuel barge from loading, causing a later-than-expected shipment. Despite delays, loading of the barge is anticipated later today and expected to unload tomorrow on St. Thomas which typically takes several hours, though this can vary depending on weather and sea conditions.

Every step in our fuel delivery process reflects our dedication to safety and reliability, highlighting the extensive efforts made to ensure a steady supply of fuel for the Virgin Islands. However, due to current challenges, a temporary rotational outage schedule is in effect for the St. Thomas/St. John district and will continue into Sunday, only if necessary.

With additional propane units now in operation and contributions from solar energy sources, WAPA personnel are closely monitoring generation capacity against load demand. As a result of the increased availability of these resources, we have adjusted the previously announced outage schedule. This has allowed us to delay implementing the earlier plan, demonstrating our ongoing focus to minimizing any impact on our customers.

Should load demand exceed the current generation capacity, the following feeders will be affected:

Saturday, 9/7/2024

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

Feeder 7A

Feeder 7E

2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Feeder 7C

Feeder 9E

4:00 PM- 6:00 PM

Feeder 9C

Feeder 7B

6:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Feeder 10B

Feeder 8A

Feeder 6A

Feeder 8B

8:00 PM – 10:00 PM

Feeder 6B

Feeder 7A

Feeder 7E

Feeder 7C