VI Battery Energy Storage Program

The Virgin Islands Energy Office (VIEO) introduces the VI Battery Energy Storage (VIBES) Rebate Program. This program is made available through the State Energy Program Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (SEPBIL) SE0010105.  The VIBES program is launching Friday May 24, 2024.

The VIBES program aims to increase Energy Resiliency in the territory by lowering the cost barrier to adoption of battery energy storage options. 

The program will afford residents the opportunity to increase their energy resiliency and bridge gaps in utility services in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The program benefits will contribute both financially and environmentally to meet established goals:  

  • Increase coverage during service interruptions. 
  • Allow homeowners increased access to energy resiliency and energy independence. 
  • Low maintenance to owners- these battery systems require little to no maintenance, unlike fuel generators. 
  • Owners who have solar installed along with the battery systems may be eligible for a federal tax credit. Please visit the following site for more information: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/residential-clean-energy-credit  

 

Example of an eligible Battery Storage Setup

 

Rebate Overview

Rebate amount of $300/kWh of installed storage capacity, up to $4,000.00 for approved battery purchase.

Rebate Limitations:

VIEO VIBES Rebates are limited to one (1) application per homeowner (i.e., individuals) or small business / non-profit.  Applicants may not apply multiple times for additional homes or business.

Rebates will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis and issued to qualifying recipients. Rebates are subject to availability of funds through the SEPBIL Grant EE0010105, VIEO VIBES Program Rebate.

Program Requirements:

  • The applicant must be a full-time resident of the US Virgin Islands.
  • Applicant must be:
    • An owner of a single-family home, multi-family home, or condominium.
    • OR An owner of a small business or non-profit.
  • The applicant must have an Active WAPA electrical account registered in the name of the applicant.
  • Be a purchaser of a new and approved grid interactive battery energy storage system that provides automatic whole or partial home battery back up by means of either an automatic transfer switch or smart critical load panel from a local USVI Company. VIBES program is for new installations of integrated battery energy storage solutions and is not intended as an addition for pre-existing battery systems.
  • Battery storage systems must be certified to UL 9540.
  • Battery storage installation must consist of new equipment.
  • Battery capacity must be minimum of 3 kWh and up to 14 kWh.
  • Electrical Permit from DPNR must be completed and submitted with complete VIBES Rebate Program Application.
  • Permits must be submitted by a licensed electrician.

VIBES Required Supporting Documentation:

  • Completed W-9 form
  • USVI Government issued ID:
  • A copy of the applicant’s Valid US Virgin Islands driver’s license or Valid Driver’s License and copy of stamped USVI Tax Return.
  • A copy of your most recent WAPA bill.
  • A copy of the itemized receipt from approved local vendor showing paid in full.
  • Signed VIEO VIBES Rebate Program Terms and Conditions.
  • Copy of the approved DPNR Electrical Permit.
  • Battery and Automatic Transfer Switch Specification Sheets.
  • Proof of Installation Photos to be included in submission:
    • Battery Module
    • Automatic transfer switch or Smart critical load panel or Gateway

*IMPORTANT:* how to apply for a rebate

  • Compile all of the required documentation before applying.
  • All documentation listed above must have matching applicant name.
  • complete online application or download pdf application for completion.

Supporting Documents and Links:

Full Terms/Conditions and Application Document

Current Installer Vendor List

if you wish to become a vendor please reach out to michael.jaffurs@eo.vi.gov