HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – Developers are seeking feedback on a proposed solar farm on the Big Island that would power more than 35,000 homes.
AES Hawaii answered questions about the proposed Keʻāmuku solar and storage project in a virtual public hearing Tuesday evening.
The 86 MW plant would be located on a 525-acre site on Waikoloa Road and Māmalahoa Highway.
The developers say Keamuku would create over 1,900 jobs and provide an economic boost of about $353 million.
According to AES, a preliminary environmental impact assessment has shown that no important habitat for wildlife species has been identified in the project area.
“When people email in proposals for the community fund, who ultimately decides where the money goes? Our hope is that we’ll be able to support as many beneficiaries as you can suggest,” said Shane Peters, spokesperson for Keamuku Solar + Storage.
“When you think about it, $258,000 a year over a 25-year lifespan is quite a lot of resources. And that’s our hope. There will be enough left for the community and enough to distribute to everyone.”
If the project passes all environmental and regulatory procedures, developers plan to begin construction by 2027 and begin operations by 2030.
The developers plan to decommission the plant by 2056 and return the site to its original condition.
A 30-day public comment period runs until September 12.
Give your input to the project here.
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