Molokai, Hawaii is a prime example of a community that can reap the rewards of renewable energy sources. The two community-based renewable energy projects, Pālā'au Solar and Kualapu'u Solar, could help reduce the electricity bills of Molokai customers who cannot install solar energy on rooftops, such as tenants. Local governments can significantly reduce their carbon footprint by buying or directly generating electricity from clean, renewable sources. The Hawaiian Natural Energy Institute (HNEI) has conducted technical analyses to explore the social, economic and technological advantages and disadvantages of different modes of transport to achieve 100% renewable energy for electricity generation in Molokai.
The potential for locally produced renewable energy to reduce the cost of electricity in Molokai and create a cleaner environment for future generations is an exciting prospect. Batteries that store excess renewable energy and are discharged when that energy is unavailable extend utility and improve the predictable availability of renewable sources. A combination of renewable energy options can help meet local government objectives, especially in some regions where the availability and quality of renewable resources vary. Renewable natural gas (RNG), also known as biogas, is a form of gaseous energy that is created from the decay of organic matter, such as biosolids from wastewater, food waste, or animal manure under anaerobic conditions or under conditions without oxygen. Smaller-scale wind turbines can be considered as an option to increase the flow of reliable renewable energy and take advantage of Molokai's natural resources if the community so wishes.
The state of Hawaii has set a goal of using 100% renewable energy by 2045 throughout the state and, if all goes well, Molokai could be on track to achieve that goal. The Molokai Clean Energy Resilience Action Plan not only focuses on renewable energy, but also on emergency planning. Hawaiian Electric has submitted the second phase of the draft Community Renewable Energy Program (CBRE) rates and appendices, as well as requests for proposals and model contracts for low and moderate income (LMI) customers, to Molokai and Lanai for review by the Commission. 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. Hawaiian Electric is now making available to developers (subscribed organizations) the results of the Land Information Request (RFI) who are interested in participating in phase 2 of the next phase of community-based renewable energy (CBRE).The implementation of renewable energy sources in Molokai could bring numerous benefits to local communities.
Switching to another electricity provider and finding ways to get the cheapest electricity deal can help reduce electric bills. Renewable energy projects can create jobs that residents are already training for. Additionally, it could reduce carbon emissions and create a cleaner environment for future generations. Finally, it could help Molokai reach its goal of using 100% renewable energy by 2045. The advantages that come with harnessing renewable energy sources in Molokai are numerous.
Not only would it reduce electricity bills for tenants who cannot install solar panels on their rooftops, but it would also create jobs for locals who are already trained in this field. Furthermore, it would reduce carbon emissions and create a cleaner environment for future generations. Finally, it could help Molokai reach its goal of using 100% renewable energy by 2045. In order to make this dream a reality, Hawaiian Electric has submitted various documents such as requests for proposals and model contracts for low and moderate income customers to Molokai and Lanai for review by the Commission. Additionally, wave buoy manufacturers have been given access to test their designs with the help of the Hawaii National Marine Renewable Energy Center.
The implementation of renewable energy sources in Molokai could bring numerous benefits to local communities. It is up to local governments to take advantage of these opportunities in order to reduce electricity bills, create jobs, reduce carbon emissions and create a cleaner environment for future generations.
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