This year the utility Hawaiian Electric unveiled its “Integrated Grid Plan: A pathway to a clean energy future” to the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), detailing the steps the company will take to achieve net zero carbon emissions and 100% renewable energy integration by 2045.
After receiving over 300 submissions from power users and other stakeholders, the plan is currently seeking regulatory approval. It prioritizes the use of local resources and aims to create resilient, decarbonized island grids that will serve Hawaii's user base reliably and with lower emissions in the future. The plan includes between 16% and 22.8% customer DER by the target date of 2045.
Part of this plan is to create numerous renewable grids across the islands by dividing resource-rich areas into various renewable zones. Hawaii is blessed with many renewable resources: plenty of sun and wind, with the possibility in future of marine “Blue” energy from wave turbines or tidal lagoons as well.
The National Renewable Energy Laboratory assisted Hawaiian Electric to conduct a data-driven preliminary study to identify potential areas on Oahu, Hawaii Island and Maui that may be suitable for future renewable energy projects.
Each renewable energy project requires different technical conditions. For example, grid-scale solar facilities generally require a flat, open landscape that receives consistent sunshine. Wind energy requires a reliable wind resource. Land space on the islands is limited, and must be balanced between generating power, environmental considerations, and preserving local communities and agriculture.
The objective would be to generate a great deal of local power, to benefit communities while reducing emissions and avoiding transmission losses. This draft plan is being expanded to include more input from local communities and other stakeholders to ensure that the proper infrastructure to support more renewables is created appropriately.