The Hawaiian island of Molokai is a prime example of how businesses can benefit from the implementation of renewable energy sources. With pressure from the state government, Hawaiian Electric began tackling Moloka'i's technical challenges and restarting its growth in renewable energy. In partnership with the Hawaii National Marine Renewable Energy Center, connected to the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute and the University of Hawaii, wave buoy manufacturers can test the performance of their wave buoy designs. The concept of transforming the island into a renewable energy source has deep roots that date back before Hawaiian Electric's involvement.
Hydrogen production can be programmed to take advantage of surplus renewable energy that would otherwise be wasted (reduced); likewise, the use of hydrogen to generate electricity can be programmed to meet peak electricity demands. In addition to incorporating new resources into renewable energy generation, Maui Electric would implement a variety of factors to improve grid stability, which currently poses difficulties when it comes to adding additional photovoltaic energy to the system. According to Gregg Kresge, Maui Electric's renewable energy manager, efforts to achieve sustainable energy efficiency have also contributed to the problem. The founders of Pacific Biodiesel, Bob and Kelly King, grow sunflowers and other crops on their Maui farm, demonstrating a community model of sustainable agriculture, renewable fuels, and food that is helping Hawaii achieve a future with clean energy. Honolulu-based Hawaiian Electric, the investor-owned utility that controls the Moloka'i grid, must comply with the state legislature's mandate to convert the five island grids it operates to 100% renewable energy by 2045. Batteries that store excess renewable energy and are discharged when that energy is unavailable extend utility and improve the predictable availability of renewable sources.
Renewable natural gas (RNG), also known as biogas, is a form of gaseous energy created from the decay of organic matter, such as biosolids from wastewater, food waste, or animal manure under anaerobic conditions or without oxygen. A subscriber organization can be any organization, such as a neighborhood, a club, a homeowners' association, a church, a union, a charitable organization, an environmental organization, or a company that develops renewable energy facilities. The lessons of Moloka'i could have a global application, as continental grids face similar challenges in terms of renewable energy. It's important to note that subscribers buy renewable energy credits from a subscribing organization and that the power company applies them to the subscriber's electric bill. Thanks to pressure from the state government and initiatives from local businesses and organizations, Molokai is now well on its way towards becoming an example for other communities looking to benefit from renewable energy sources. Businesses looking to take advantage of renewable energy sources in Molokai should consider all available options.
From hydrogen production and batteries for storage to RNG and subscribing organizations for credits - there are many ways for businesses to benefit from this clean source of energy. With careful planning and implementation, businesses can make use of these resources in order to reduce their carbon footprint and become more sustainable. Molokai is an excellent example of how businesses can benefit from renewable energy sources. With pressure from the state government and initiatives from local businesses and organizations, Molokai is now well on its way towards becoming an example for other communities looking to benefit from renewable energy sources. By taking advantage of all available options - such as hydrogen production and batteries for storage - businesses can reduce their carbon footprint and become more sustainable.
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