Public Power

At the Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA), we’re proud to be a public utility, locally owned, operated, and committed to serving the people of our islands. As a provider of public power and water, we’re accountable to the residents, businesses, and communities we serve. Explore this page to learn about the benefits of public power, how we are investing in our communities, and to meet the dedicated staff who keep WAPA running.

The Heart of a Public Utility

As a public utility, WAPA is owned and operated by the communities it serves. This structure brings several key advantages:

Local Ownership

Not-for-Profit

Accountability

What are the Benefits of Public Water and Power?

Locally-focused Decisions: Decisions are made by community members located in the Virgin Islands. This allows for informed responses to our communities’ unique needs by people who know our islands and can act quickly when problems arise.

Affordable Service: WAPA is committed to keeping rates affordable for our residents. While utility rates across the Caribbean Basin increased 50% since 2021, WAPA has held rates flat, shielding residents from this cost.

Economic Benefits: WAPA supports local jobs in the Virgin Islands and keeps dollars in our communities. Any revenue generated by WAPA is reinvested into local infrastructure and improving services.

Reinvesting in Our Community

WAPA is committed to using its resources to support infrastructure upgrades, create community programs, and enhance the quality of life across the Virgin Islands.

Here are some of the key ways we are reinvesting in our islands:

Infrastructure Improvements
Upgrading water and power systems to ensure reliable, resilient service across the USVI through Prudent Replacement Programs through FEMA funding.
Energy Efficiency Initiatives
Implementing campaigns to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainable practices in the territory.
Community Projects
Engaging residents through educational outreach, volunteer events, and storytelling and interactive presentations with our youth.

Leading by Example

At WAPA, our employees don’t just work for the utility—they are active members of the community. Every day, they work hard to ensure their neighbors, friends, and family have reliable power and water.

Meet some of the dedicated community members who make up the WAPA Family:

Sabrina King-Leonce
Human Resources Director

“I enjoy being part of a company that’s dedicated to our community. Providing power and water isn’t just a service; it’s a way to support my friends, family, and neighbors. Together, we’re working towards a brighter future for the Virgin Islands."

Marlene Francis
Customer Service Manager

“[Public Power] is a call to action. Together, we can elevate the customer experience to new heights."

Learn More About Public Power

We are proud to serve the Virgin Islands and are committed to building a future that prioritizes the well-being of our communities. Explore our current projects, learn how we’re improving energy reliability, and discover what we’re doing to make the Virgin Islands a leader in public power.