CCU optimistic about DoD, EPA talks

by Janjeera Hail

Guam - The Consolidated Commission on Utilities is optimistic about recent talks with representatives from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Defense.  They are on Guam and met with the CCU on Thursday regarding the island's infrastructure and utility needs for the military buildup.

In the Final Environmental Protection Agency, the Government of Japan has agreed to provide $740 million in financing for utility upgrades, including renovations to the Northern and Agana waste water treatment plants.

CCU Vice-Chairperson Eloy Hara says the talks have been positive, saying, "The talks have been very fruitful, very professional, and fruitful in the sense that we actually, we at the CCU and Guam Power and GWA. I think we pretty much got everything we thought that they should provide."

In total, $1.3 billion in upgrades to the island's power and water systems are needed. Meanwhile, talks will continue next week as officials from the Japanese government are expected to arrive to Guam.