Alternative Energy a Carnival Hit
May 8, 2009 – The V. I. Energy Office, in partnership with the University of Virgin Islands, took part in the St. Thomas Carnival Adult Parade on May 2. The Energy Office's Honda Civic hybrid, which has been a successful part of the Virgin Islands government fleet for over five years, led.
Following the hybrid automobile was a float containing a miniature solar house, presided over by a Sunlady. About 35 UVI students followed in costumes representing the potential for ocean generated power. Of course, it was followed by a truck of musicians. When the entourage passed in front of the reviewing stand, it generated much discussion on TV and radio as well as in the crowd about what the Virgin Islands should be doing concerning alternative energy.
Energy Schedules Hearings on Funding
The V. I. Energy Office will hold three public hearings this week focusing on the Weatherization Assistance Program. For the first time the U.S. Department of Energy has made available $1.4 million for the Virgin Islands in the program.
The hearings will be held on each of the main islands in their respective senate buildings from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. St. Croix hearing is May 5. St. Thomas is May 6 and St. John is May 7.
The funds have certain federal restrictions. The purpose of the Weatherization Assistance Program is to increase the energy efficiency of dwellings owned or occupied by low-income persons, reduce their total residential expenditures, and improve their health and safety. The priority population for the Weatherization Assistance Program is persons who are particularly vulnerable such as the elderly, persons with disabilities, families with children, high residential energy users, and households with low incomes. Anyone seeking additional information is encouraged to contact the Virgin Islands Energy Office at 773-1082, extension 2239.
Reef Jam Calls Attention to Reefs
The 2nd annual Reef Jam festival will be held from 1-10 p.m., May 24, at Rainbow Beach. The event is part of the effort to raise awareness of coral reef values and promote coral reef stewardship and conservation. With over 1,000 attendees crowding Rainbow Beach last year, more than $7,000 was raised for local coral reef education and conservation efforts.
This event will include the music of three bands Siete Son, Kurt Schindler and a local reggae artist. Marine education, good food, and limin at the beach are agenda items. Funds generated from the event will go toward marine conservation and education in the form of a mini-grant program. As was the case last year, the $5 entry will be for the entire day.