Portable Battery Backup Systems Being Distributed to Medically Vulnerable Virgin Islands Residents
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ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands — Acting Governor Tregenza A. Roach, Esq. announced that the Virgin Islands Energy Office has begun distributing portable battery backup systems to medically vulnerable residents through the Virgin Islands Resiliency Gateway Program, also known as VIRG.
The program is designed to support residents who depend on electricity for critical medical and health-related needs, especially as the Territory continues through hurricane season.
Through the initiative, qualifying residents will receive an EcoFlow or Anker portable backup battery system paired with a 400-watt foldable solar panel. The systems are plug-and-play, require no installation, produce no fumes, and can be recharged either through a standard electrical outlet or by using the included solar panel during daylight hours.
The Virgin Islands Energy Office is working with the Department of Human Services and community organizations to identify residents who may qualify. Eligibility is based on Virgin Islands residency, medical vulnerability, and a documented need for electricity to support critical medical equipment or medication.
Residents identified for the program may include those who rely on chronic oxygen therapy, Bi-PAP or CPAP devices, home ventilation, tracheostomy support, feeding G-tubes, LVAD heart machines, refrigerated medications, 24-hour wound vac systems, or those who are bed bound.
VIEO staff members have begun contacting identified residents to confirm contact information, medical device needs, and physical addresses to coordinate delivery.
“This program is about making sure some of our most vulnerable residents have a safer and more reliable option when the power goes out,” Acting Governor Roach said. “As we move through hurricane season, resiliency cannot be an abstract idea. It has to reach people in their homes, especially those whose health depends on access to electricity.”
The announcement was made during the weekly Government House briefing on St. Thomas, where officials also provided updates on hurricane preparedness, emergency response, public safety, and community improvements.
VITEMA Director Daryl Jaschen encouraged residents to prepare early for hurricane season by reviewing household emergency plans, checking supplies, inspecting roofs, securing shutters, and clearing yards. He also reminded the public that a Territorial Burn Ban remains in effect until further notice, including a permanent burn ban on Water Island.
Acting Governor Roach also addressed the tragic death of 15-year-old Tre’Vante Etienne, extending condolences to his family, friends, classmates, and the wider community. He called for a collective effort among parents, relatives, teachers, coaches, faith leaders, and neighbors to help protect and guide young people.
The briefing also included an update on the Emancipation Gardens Improvement Project in downtown St. Thomas. Work is underway at Post Office Square, Fort Christian Park, Emancipation Garden, and Educators Park. The $700,000 project will bring improvements to historic public spaces for residents and visitors.
The Bryan-Roach Administration encouraged residents to remain informed, prepared, and engaged as the Territory continues efforts to strengthen resiliency, support vulnerable residents, and improve quality of life across the Virgin Islands.