Kaua'i Island Utility Cooperative's Path to 100 Percent Renewable Energy

Kaua'i Island Utility Cooperative's path to 100 percent renewable energy is a remarkable story of innovation and determination. The cooperative's goal is to power 100% of its electricity with renewable energy by 2035.

One of the key factors driving this goal is Kaua'i's unique geography, which provides ample opportunities for wind and solar energy generation. The island's rugged terrain and abundant sunshine make it an ideal location for harnessing renewable energy.

In 2013, Kaua'i Island Utility Cooperative began its journey to 100 percent renewable energy by launching a 12-megawatt solar farm at the Kaua'i Community College. This project marked a significant milestone in the cooperative's efforts to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels.

For another approach, see: Phoenix Solar

Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) is leading the way in renewable energy. Their goal is to generate 70 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by 2030.

KIUC serves 33,000 customers, and they're taking a proactive approach to reduce their reliance on imported fossil fuels. This is especially important given the high electricity rates in Hawaii, which are the highest in the U.S.

For another approach, see: Innergex Renewable Energy

The island's energy prices are subject to intense price volatility, making it a challenge for residents and businesses alike. KIUC is working to mitigate this issue by increasing energy generated from Kauaʻi's own resources.

Here are some key facts about KIUC's renewable transition:

KIUC faced significant challenges in meeting their clean energy goals, including the need for a cost-effective solution that outperformed fossil fuels.

To tackle this, KIUC required an energy partner that could pioneer a new solution challenging conventional industry wisdom.

The conventional wisdom at the time held that solar-plus-storage solutions could only perform a simple energy shift utilizing a four-hour battery, at maximum.

KIUC needed a solution that could increase renewables generation and address their dispatchability and intermittent power challenges.

Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) has made a remarkable achievement by operating on 100% renewables throughout the day. This is a testament to their commitment to reducing their reliance on imported fossil fuels and decreasing price volatility.

KIUC serves 33,000 customers, and their efforts have not only reduced their power cost but also increased the amount of energy generated from Kauaʻi’s own resources. This is a significant shift from their previous reliance on imported fossil fuels.

The island's high electricity rates, which are among the highest in the U.S., are now being stabilized thanks to KIUC's efforts. Their models showed that incorporating additional solar without creating grid stability required the addition of energy storage.

Here are some key benefits of KIUC's 100% renewable operation:

KIUC is expected to reach 80% renewables by 2025, and their strategic initiative aims to generate 70 percent of its electricity from renewable sources by 2030. This is a significant milestone in their journey towards a more sustainable future.

We're fortunate to have a cooperative that's leading the way in renewable energy. The Lāwaʻi project is a game-changer, allowing up to 40% of evening peak power to be supplied by stored solar energy.

This achievement is a testament to the cooperative's commitment to reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. Replacing fossil fuels with stable, lower-priced renewables helps keep rates as low as possible for members.

The Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) is a key player in the island's energy landscape. They submitted an application for an Incidental Take Permit to the Service.

The permit was requested to allow for the take of nine endangered or threatened species on Kauaʻi. These species include the Hawaiian petrel, Hawai‘i Distinct Population Segment of the band-rumped storm-petrel, and the Hawaiian duck.

The KIUC plans to modify existing and future powerlines and implement lighting activities on the island. This is part of their larger conservation strategy for Kauaʻi.

The nine species in question are the Hawaiian petrel, Hawai‘i Distinct Population Segment of the band-rumped storm-petrel, koloa maoli, aeʻo, ʻalae keʻokeʻo, ʻalae ʻula, the threatened Newell’s shearwater, nēnē, and the Central North Pacific Distinct Population Segment of honu.

Worth a look: Hawaiian Electric Industries

Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative is deeply committed to engaging with the community it serves. They have a strong focus on education and outreach to help customers understand their energy usage and make informed decisions about their energy consumption.

Their customer education programs are designed to empower customers with the knowledge they need to make the most of their energy usage. By providing workshops, webinars, and other educational resources, they aim to reduce energy waste and promote energy efficiency.

Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative also prioritizes community involvement and outreach through partnerships with local organizations and events. They have partnered with the Kauaʻi County government to promote energy efficiency and sustainability island-wide.

Their customer service team is dedicated to providing personalized support and assistance to customers, helping them navigate any questions or concerns they may have about their energy usage.

Emergency Preparedness is crucial, especially when facing storms and high winds. The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) has activated its emergency preparedness plan due to Hurricane Gilma.

KIUC members are encouraged to review their home and business emergency preparedness plans and act accordingly. This includes protecting appliances and sensitive equipment from power outages and surges with surge protectors.

Turning off and unplugging all unnecessary appliances or equipment during a storm is a good idea. This will help prevent damage and ensure your safety.

If you see any lines from utility poles on the ground, stay at least 30 feet clear and assume they are dangerous. Call 911 immediately.

Here are some essential items to have on hand for emergency preparedness:

You can find more storm preparedness tips on KIUC's website at www.kiuc.coop/storm-sense. For general emergency preparedness information, visit the Kaua‘i Emergency Management Agency’s website: Emergency Preparedness – Kauai County, HI.