During the global energy crisis, Hawaii was forced to find new sources of oil. It was the main fuel source of the islands and was often imported in large quantities. Hawaii imported 29,000,000 barrels of crude oil from abroad in 2016. While it may be a distant possibility that Hawaii will ever have its own nuclear power plant, the state has made efforts to increase the production of wind and solar energy.
In 2008, Hawaiian Clean Energy Initiative launched with the mission to provide clean energy for 70% of Hawaii's electricity requirements by 2030. In order to make the transition to renewable energies more feasible, the initiative brings together policymakers, business leaders, and members of the community. It was also established in partnership the U.S. Department of Energy. The Initiative does not just focus on wind and sunshine. It also covers solar thermal energy and biofuel from algae.
Hawaiian Electric Companies, the largest electric utility in Hawaii, has set a goal of becoming 100% renewable within 2045. Hawaiian Electric plans to also close the last remaining coal plant in Hawaii by 2022. Hawaiian Electric will continue to use oil to recharge its battery until the construction of renewable energy is possible. The utility expressed concern to Hawaii Public Utilities Commission recently about the potential dangers of charging its battery with power from oil-fired power plant.
Hawaiian Electric has also made a commitment to close Barbers Point Coal Plant, which is situated on West Oahu. This will result in 40 job losses for the community. The company does hope to reassign the employees to other jobs in Hawaii. The utility recently announced plans for a revamp of the state grid.
Hawaiian Electric Companies has been more involved in planning as part its grid modernization strategy. The company recently submitted a plan for the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission. This plan outlined the company's priorities and highlighted the importance of a comprehensive grid modernization strategy. It also outlined how the company would integrate customer input into its planning process.
The company is planning to install large energy storage systems on its system. The system is essentially a giant battery. The system is designed to provide Hawaii with a reliable source of electricity after the AES coal plant closes. It will have more than 3 megawatts in PV generation and 4.5 megawatts for energy storage. There will also be over 3000 megawatt-hours worth of energy storage.
The PUC recently ordered Hawaiian Electric to report on its progress towards its renewable energy goals. It also said that the company could not require community-based programs for renewable energy to have battery storage.
Hawaiian Electric Companies initially planned for the state having a one direction flow of electricity. The plan has been revised to address concerns over a two-way flow. In order to increase the flow of electricity, the company plans to collaborate with other Hawaiian Electric Companies. It also proposes an innovative systems approach to energy planning.