Young BVIslander powers the territory with sunshine
As residents continue to call for more affordable electricity rates and better service from the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC), one young BVIslander is seeking to provide the territory with renewable energy as an additional option.
Twenty-four-year-old William Adamson opened Renewable Power Solutions in 2022. He and his business partner Chris Fletcher are hoping to provide solar panels and batteries to those seeking to reduce their reliance on the national grid and reduce their carbon footprint.
Business has been picking up slowly, with a few installations in Oil Nut Bay and on Mosquito Island.
Recently, the company completed their first-ever commercial scale solar installation on Tortola for Golden Hind Chandlery — a company which specialises in marine supplies.
“We supplied them with 140 solar panels. As far as I’m aware, they are the first large-scale private company on Tortola to invest in solar energy,” Adamson revealed. He also added that the company began looking into alternative energy after seeing that their operations were heavily affected by the frequent power cuts in recent times.
Adamson said his company has been seeing increasing interests from residents who also want a reliable supply of power. But he admitted that it is particularly costly to invest in solar power in the territory because of the threat of hurricanes.
“Because we face unique challenges in the BVI with particular emphasis on hurricanes, we have higher costs of installing solar here. We need to make sure that our equipment is of the required rating to withstand even the strongest hurricanes — like Irma. And we have to ensure that the existing homes are capable of holding the solar equipment. It means it’s more expensive to do it than in other countries and that is the main thing holding back solar in the BVI,” Adamson explained.
To combat the high costs, Adamson urged the government to consider another duty-free policy for renewable energy imports. One was done in 2021 and the young business owner said this helped his business and many others who opted to venture in renewable energy.
“Many businesses took advantage of this and it was a big boom to the industry. However, that duty-free period ended recently and renewing that policy would help continue to grow solar in the BVI,” Adamsom said.
If residents still want to venture into renewable energy, it would be costly at first, but cheaper in the long term.
“A small house with an electricity bill of $100 monthly could go off grid with solar and batteries for about $20,000. While this is expensive, it means they are fully off-grid and in another post-irma situation, they will have backup power without the need for a diesel generator,” Adamson stated.
He added that a company with a monthly electricity bill of $500 could offset that cost with between 25 and 30 solar panels, which would come in at approximately $30,000.
“If they wish to add batteries then the cost would go up accordingly.”
And while admitting that the cost is a major factor to consider when venturing into solar energy, Adamson said such a decision is a very moral one that can preserve the longevity of Nature’s Little Secret.
“The benefits that solar energy provides not only financially but also socially, makes it one of the best decisions you can make. It’s a very safe investment for both you and your family or your business. When you consider the importance of investing in this technology for our future generations and maintaining Nature’s Little Secret, it’s a very moral decision,” Adamson said boldly.
Copyright 2024 BVI News, Media Expressions Limited. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or distributed.
So great to see someone using the BVI’s greatest asset – sunshine! Way to go Mr. Adamson, keep up the great work!
A very bright, pleasant personable young bvislander doing great things in his country. He’ll go far! Hats off to you. Everyone should be reducing our carbon footprint. All commercial buildings should have solar to handle a/c loads during the day and reduce elec bills. The govt always saying they promoting green inititives and want to reduce reliance on national grid power…Premier Wheatley and Deputy Smith, here’s the opportunity to really push your green plans in the bvi so residents can take advantage of the technology..do what the man says and renew the duty exemption.
I think this is a bold and necessary step to take to maintain the beauty and tourism that keeps the BVI going. #solarforthewin
Look white boi
Introducing another duty-free policy for renewable energy imports is surely a no-brainer? We need to cut our reliance on burning imported diesel, we need to add resiliency to our power generation, and we need to cut our carbon footprint. Win-win-win.
BVIslander?
Ph** I seeing with he.
I admire his honesty about cost and what it takes to achieve the goal. I would like to hear his solutions for a grid tied system.
“A small house with an electricity bill of $100 monthly”, 20 years ago maybe.
The whole solar energy thing is a farce. There is nothing clean or renewable about storing energy in a bunch of batteries which need to be replaced from time to time and how do you dispose of them?
Yes, a BVIslander taking initiative. Great, right?
Way to go, big man! Great to see you raising awareness for solar power & always pushing to improve the BVI.
Excited to have you install a solar system at our (future) home one day!
Great article about this tuned in BVI islander.
Nevertheless a small gas/diesel generator to provide power during cloudy/rainy storm periods is also a necessity when the sun doesn’t shine AND it can also charge the storage batteries at night.
Can someone clear up if there is currently legislation in the bvi about using an entity other than BVIEC as your main source of power?
They both end in pool
I thought solar energy was a pre workout?
It’s so refreshing to see the youth taking pride in their country and wanting to help build a more sustainable future. This young man is paving the way.
Met William a few times, great guy, hard working and knows what he’s talking about. Highly recommend!
My business needs to invest over $100,000 for panels and then again about $40,000 in batteries now in about 7yrs i need to replace rather batteries and panels so about $20,000 a year , but that’s without installation and that’s from a Chinese company not here in the BVI.
Solar power is still too expensive till the panels can produce more wattage per square ft.
Well written and informative article with the cost pros and cons of solar. I agree it’s expensive and batteries are a burden but we have to look ahead – we have plenty of sun ( and wind and waves) we rely on imported fossil fuel.
So what harkened to the other alternative energy companies that been here in existence for years? This is nothing new. He is not a pioneer in this field. Did I miss something as to why this is news?
Congratulations Will
So none of the students who went through the solar traing course can get permission from the premier’s office to start their solar businesses but this young man can? Make it make sense! I hold no issue with the young man and his business endeavor, and wish him all the best but this is simply mind boggling when put into perspective.
Yes , he is actually third generation. His father was born here and his grandparents still live here.
BVIEC always drive around in their cars that have renewable energy on the side but what do they actually do? NOTHING! The BVIEC needs to put they money where they mouth is and actually do something to promote solar
If you live in a small house with a monthly electricity bill of $100 it is highly unlikely you can afford $20k on a solar setup. The point about having power after an event like Irma is moot when you no longer have a roof and the panels to catch the light. Be honest, this is nice for those who have the wealth but for those who are generally most in need this is a pipe dream. Oil is and will still be for the foreseeable future the cheapest source of energy and fuel.
One question I have for Mr. Adamson: will you also start a battery recycling business or will the expired batteries end up in Pockwood Pond?
Hypothetically speaking, it’s important to consider the potential drawbacks and challenges associated with solar energy, especially in the context of the British Virgin Islands (BVI). While the idea of renewable energy and reducing carbon footprints is admirable, there are several cons and considerations that need to be addressed in response to this article:
1. High Initial Costs: As mentioned in the article, the upfront cost of installing solar panels and batteries in the BVI is substantial. For many residents and businesses, the initial investment of thousands of dollars can be a significant barrier to entry. This financial burden may deter individuals with limited resources from adopting solar energy.
2. Hurricane Vulnerability: The BVI’s susceptibility to hurricanes is a genuine concern. Ensuring that solar equipment can withstand the strongest hurricanes, such as Hurricane Irma, adds additional costs to installations. Moreover, the risk of damage or destruction during hurricanes means that solar users may need to invest in expensive insurance policies to protect their investments.
3. Dependence on Weather: Solar power generation is heavily dependent on weather conditions, particularly sunlight. Cloudy days, rainy seasons, or extended periods of inclement weather can reduce energy production, potentially leaving users without sufficient power. This dependence on weather patterns can be a significant drawback in regions like the BVI.
4. Maintenance and Repairs: Solar panels and batteries require regular maintenance and occasional repairs. Residents must be prepared for ongoing costs associated with keeping their solar systems in optimal condition. Additionally, finding qualified technicians to perform these tasks may be challenging in remote areas.
5. Limited Energy Storage: While batteries can provide backup power during outages, they have limited storage capacity. If a solar system is not designed with sufficient battery capacity, it may not provide continuous power during extended outages or at night when the sun isn’t shining.
6. Government Policies and Incentives: The article mentions the importance of government policies and incentives to promote renewable energy adoption. However, these policies can change, and there may be uncertainty regarding the long-term availability of incentives. Residents and businesses need to consider the potential impact of policy changes on their investments.
7. Scalability: While the article discusses solar adoption for individual homes and businesses, scalability for larger industries or the entire territory may pose challenges. Meeting the energy needs of the entire BVI with solar power could be a complex undertaking.
8. Continuing the discussion of the potential drawbacks and considerations of widespread solar adoption in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), it’s essential to address how this transition might impact the BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC), job prospects, and issues related to affordability and incentives:
9. Impact on BVI Electricity Corporation (BVIEC):
10. A high percentage of residents and businesses transitioning to solar power could significantly reduce the revenue generated by BVIEC. With fewer customers relying on the national grid, the BVIEC may face financial challenges, which could potentially affect its ability to maintain and upgrade the existing grid infrastructure.
11. This shift could also impact the BVIEC’s workforce. With reduced demand for traditional electricity services, the corporation may need to downsize its staff, potentially leading to job losses.
12. Impact on Jobs:
13. While the growth of the solar industry can create job opportunities in the installation, maintenance, and servicing of solar panels and related equipment, the potential downsizing of the BVIEC may offset these gains.
14. It’s essential for the government and businesses to plan for potential job transitions, retraining, and skills development programs to mitigate the impact of job losses in the traditional energy sector.
15. Affordability and Accessibility:
16. The article mentions the high initial costs of solar installations. It’s important to recognize that not everyone in the BVI can afford to make such a significant investment. This could result in an economic disparity where those with financial means can access clean energy while others cannot.
17. Lack of affordability may also disproportionately affect lower-income households, potentially exacerbating energy poverty and inequality.
18. Lack of Proper Incentives for Feeding Back to the Grid:
19. Another challenge in the BVI may be the absence of proper incentives for residents or businesses to feed excess solar-generated electricity back into the grid. Without adequate compensation or net metering policies, there is limited motivation for users to invest in excess capacity and contribute to the overall grid stability and sustainability.
20. Effective policies that encourage grid integration and incentivize users to sell excess energy back to the BVIEC could help address this issue.
21.
In conclusion, while renewable energy, particularly solar power, offers numerous benefits, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential cons and challenges specific to the BVI. High upfront costs, hurricane vulnerabilities, weather-dependent energy generation, maintenance requirements, and policy uncertainties are factors that individuals and the government must carefully consider when pursuing solar energy solutions. Balancing the desire for clean energy with these practical considerations is essential for the sustainable development of renewable energy in the BVI. while the transition to solar energy in the BVI offers environmental benefits and potential long-term savings, there are significant economic, employment, and accessibility considerations that must be addressed. Striking a balance between promoting renewable energy adoption, protecting existing jobs, ensuring affordability, and incentivizing grid contributions is essential for a successful and equitable transition to solar power in the British Virgin Islands. Policymakers, businesses, and community stakeholders must collaborate to navigate these challenges and ensure a sustainable and inclusive energy future for all residents.
It’s great to see these renewable energy efforts being made on Tortola and more attention being brought to the topic. Hats off to Golden Hind Chandlery for making a bold and rewarding decision. They’re heading down a road with Renewable Power Solutions that other businesses are sure to follow.
HAHAHAHA…. an unregulated, 6 month, BVI government training course vs 4 OR 5 years at a top university focused on engineering and renewable energy….there is NO COMPARISON there.
I posted earlier that this solar power is a farce and most disliked my comment because I guess they drank the koolaid. I would love to see someone answer your questions or challenge anything that you’ve said.
There are at least 3 solar graduates with trade licenses…
Well done young man. You went to University you worked hard and you came home with a vision . Many people know that Solar is the future the way to go. And here in our beautiful Virgin Islands with sun 365 days a year but with constant power outages and constant increase in electricity prices we have to start thinking of an alternative. I have read these comments and realised that many people do not understand how solar energy works! Many are predicting issues with solar or batteries without the full understanding. Keep an opened mind ( car batteries phone batteries don’t last long but we All use abuse and toss away without a thought ).. rather than making assumptions get the facts first .. from the person that know about how solar works!! William a wonderful genuine intelligent young BVIslander. #solarforthefuture
@ JOKEY
This whole green deal is a damn scam.
co2 is not a pollutant. that’s why they change it to carbon foot print.
I know many people who have electricity bills under $80.00. Is either the heat gonna kill us or the light bill from the AC.
What’s happening with the project on Anegada?
Yes bvislander born and raised…stop hating and try doing something to benefit the island instead of looking at people’s status.. great job young man!
Great job so far Will! Keep working hard and pushing solar in the BVI. Can’t wait for you to install solar for us one day. After losing electricity twice in the past 24hrs solar is the best solution for BVI life!!
Batteries can be recycled in the US.
it is a bit expensive,but the biggest cost is in shipping.
also now batteries last longer than 7 yrs.
I call and whatsapp this gentleman several times over the last few months for a quote. Even got a number from his dad and still no call back. Customer service is a thumbs down for me!