The University of the Virgin Islands (UVI) has secured a significant $150,000 investment from the Virgin Islands Energy Office (VIEO) to establish scholarships for its pioneering Associate of Applied Science program in Renewable Energy Technology. The formal funding presentation occurred at the UVI RTPark Solar Farm, where VIEO Deputy Director Michael Jaffurs transferred the commitment to Dr. Gregory Guannel, Director of UVI’s Caribbean Green Technology Center.
Scheduled for launch in Spring 2026, these scholarships will eliminate financial barriers for qualified U.S. citizens and legal residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands pursuing renewable energy studies. The initiative supports both the degree program and an upcoming Certificate in Renewable Energy Technology, creating accessible pathways into the growing green energy sector.
Dr. Guannel characterized the investment as a transformative development for local workforce preparation. “This generous commitment ensures Virgin Islanders can acquire essential training to actively participate in our territory’s clean energy transition,” he stated. “We’re addressing urgent community needs by equipping students with technical expertise while expressing profound gratitude to VIEO for their partnership in nurturing future renewable energy professionals.”
VIEO Director Kyle Fleming emphasized the strategic alignment of federal funding with local workforce development. “We’re leveraging Department of Energy resources to create a synergistic pipeline that prepares residents to build, maintain, and expand the clean energy systems our communities increasingly adopt,” Fleming explained. “This scholarship transforms federal funding into tangible opportunities for Virgin Islanders to lead our territory’s energy transformation.”
The Renewable Energy Technology program, established in 2024 through collaboration between UVI’s College of Science and Mathematics and the Caribbean Green Technology Center, delivers comprehensive two-year training in electrical fundamentals, renewable energy systems, and photovoltaic installation and maintenance. The curriculum combines theoretical coursework with practical internships, preparing graduates for immediate workforce entry while providing a foundation for advanced degrees in physics or applied mathematics.
Program completers will additionally qualify to undertake the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) PV Associate examination—a globally recognized certification in photovoltaic system installation that enhances professional credentials internationally.
Prospective students seeking program details or scholarship eligibility information are directed to visit www.uvi.edu or contact the UVI Office of Public Relations directly.