The state Public Utilities Commission has taken the first step toward approving a second geothermal plant on the Big Island. The state Public Utilities Commission has taken the first step toward approving a second geothermal plant on the Big Island.
The state Public Utilities Commission has taken the first step toward approving a second geothermal plant on the Big Island.
On Tuesday, it opened a docket for Hawaii Electric Light Co., which wants to expand geothermal operations by up to 50 megawatts.
The move initiates proceedings that will allow HELCO to seek proposals for a new plant.
Next, the commission will consider hiring an independent observer to oversee the proceedings and the content of the private utility’s request for proposals, said PUC Chairwoman Hermina Morita.
Morita said she could not estimate how long that would take.
HELCO has said it would like to see construction begin between 2018 and 2023.
The plant would likely be built on the west side.
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