The US Virgin Island Water and Power Authority (WAPA) will buy the electricity generated from the plant under a 25-year power purchase agreement.
The project, which is expected to generate enough electricity for over 1,500 homes, will help decrease St. Croix’s dependence on fossil fuel imports.
As part of its renewable energy goals, the USVI intends to reduce its fossil fuel based energy consumption by 60% in the next decade.
NRG Energy renewable energy business unit president Tom Doyle said: "We are extremely excited to partner with WAPA in paving the road for the development of this and other renewable energy capacity on St. Croix.
"Not only is solar cost-competitive here, but it provides clean, emission-free power, helping to ensure that the pristine beauty of the island is not compromised by the economic costs and detrimental effects of importing and using fossil fuels."
NRG will serve as the sole owner of the project, while Toshiba will continue to take the lead on engineering, procurement and construction.
Toshiba International business unit manager Mark Lonkevych said: "Toshiba looks forward to working with NRG to bring low cost renewable energy to the USVI and other islands in the Caribbean community."
Image: The US Virgin Island Water and Power Authority will buy the electricity generated from Spanish Town Estate solar project. Photo: Courtesy of frankie_8/FreeDigitalPhotos.net.
