WAPA, Vitol receive first shipment of LP gas for power project testing

The Virgin Islands Water and Power Authority (WAPA) and Vitol, the territory’s propane conversion contractor, received the first inventory shipment of LP gas at the Estate Richmond terminal Oct. 21.

Hugo V. Hodge Jr., WAPA executive director and CEO, says this first batch of LP gas will be used for commissioning and testing the storage and delivery systems ahead of WAPA’s generating units burning propane to generate electricity for customers on St. Croix. He adds Vitol plans to test various components of the storage and propane delivery systems before introducing LP gas to the generators for power production.

While the St. Croix terminal project is nearing completion, WAPA is continuing to work with the governor’s office and the delegate to Congress’ office to ensure the pending permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is finalized so the remaining marine work, including a permanent mooring for the very large gas carrier, can be completed and the St. Thomas terminal can be brought online. According to a press release, all indications are that the permit may be issued in the next 30 days.