Image: Elvis Pemberton, Seven Seas Plant Manager, shows students a filter cartridge used to transform seawater into safe drinking water during their tour of the Seven Seas Group reverse osmosis facility.
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands (March 27, 2026) – The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (“WAPA” or “the Authority”), in recognition of World Water Day observed on March 22, welcomed 11 science fair-winning students from John H. Woodson Junior High School for an educational tour as part of its “Splash into Science” initiative. The experience allowed students not only to explore how safe water is produced and delivered, but also to learn about power generation and how the two systems are closely connected on St. Croix.
As part of the tour, students visited the Seven Seas Water Group reverse osmosis facility, where they saw how seawater is transformed into about 3.5 million gallons of safe drinking water daily. They also learned that water and power systems are interconnected, with the Seven Seas facility relying on continuous electricity to operate and WAPA’s power plant using distilled water from Seven Seas to run its turbines.
“The connection between water and power is something many people don’t often think about, yet it drives the daily services our communities depend on,” said Don Gregoire, interim Chief Operating Officer of Water Systems. “By giving students a firsthand look at how we produce safe drinking water and generate electricity, we’re helping them understand the critical infrastructure that keeps homes, schools, and businesses running — and hopefully inspiring the next generation of engineers, operators, and innovators.”
The tour also included a visit to the Richmond Power Plant, where students received a first-hand look at how electricity is generated and managed. They explored the control room, where plant operators monitor generator operations and track real-time data on solar usage, weather conditions, and emissions.
The tour is part of WAPA’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and STEM education, providing students with a practical, real-world understanding of the essential systems that power daily life in the Virgin Islands.
The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority Communication’s department is committed to reaching, informing, and connecting with the youngest members of the community to the eldest, through meaningful, transparent and effective communication.