Preliminary site preparation for the University's new photovoltaic solar panel projects on St. Thomas and St. Croix is expected to begin in the near future, according to UVI Energy Manager Courtney Mayes. "We have started receiving the earth change permits," Mayes wrote in a memo. "This will allow for the clearing of some trees, leveling of land, and installation of fencing. Once that is completed, and the remaining permits are in, the construction firm will commence the installation of support for the solar panels, and then the panels themselves. The final step will be the interconnection to the campuses and WAPA." A power purchase agreement for a three megawatt photovoltaic system was signed in July. The system will use approximately 4.2 acres on the St. Thomas Campus and 3.9 acres of the Albert A. Sheen Campus on St. Croix. A news release about the agreement is available from the Media section of the UVI website – http://www.uvi.edu – and from this direct link.
On the St. Thomas Campus, solar panels are to be located on the hillside north of the Sports and Fitness Center and below the Music Center Building. On the Albert A. Sheen Campus, solar panels are scheduled to be located across from the new soccer fields. "Due to the equipment needs and locations of the sites there may be some delays onto and through our campuses," Mayes wrote. "We will try to limit the disturbance as much as possible during the next few months, as well as keep the community updated on the status of the project. Please contact Mayes at (340) 693-1503 or send e-mail to cmayes@live.uvi.edu with any questions or concerns.