HECO plan calls for more wind power

Hawaiian Electric’s latest energy plan calls for an additional 20 megawatts of wind power on Hawaii Island in just a few years as it shifts away from fossil fuels.

The power supply improvement plan seeks to reach 100 percent renewable power by 2040 — five years before the state’s 2045 deadline. The plan requires the state Public Utility Commission’s approval.

Jay Ignacio, Hawaii Electric Light Co. president, said that means more focus on wind power, at least in the near term. A utility-scale solar project also could be pursued.

The proposed plan calls for the additional 20 megawatts of wind power by 2020. Ignacio said that’s meant to take advantage of tax credits before they expire.

“It’s very aggressive,” he said, of the plan. “We’re trying to get to as much renewables as soon as possible.”

The island currently produces up to 30 megawatts of wind power from turbines at South Point and North Kohala.

Ignacio said HELCO’s grid would need upgrades in those areas to handle the additional energy, so other locations could be sought.

“We may not get the full 20 megawatts at the north or south end,” he said. “We may be able to do smaller expansions.”

HECO recently issued a request for information from landowners regarding their capacity for renewable energy production, which could identify other locations.

Ignacio said the Lalamilo area of South Kohala is a possible location for another wind farm. Earlier this year, the county Department of Water Supply installed several turbines to power its water well in the area.

Additional geothermal power projects also could be pursued, though he said that might require more research.

Ignacio said additional investment in renewable energy could increase rates in the short term, but he added the switch to renewables is expected to save ratepayers in the long run.

Currently, the island gets about half of its power from renewable sources, the most in the state.

Email Tom Callis at tcallis@hawaiitribune-herald.com.