The Molokai Community Energy Resilience Action Plan (CERAP) is an independent, community-led initiative to increase renewable energy on the island. Led by experts from the University of Hawaii Natural Energy Institute, Hawaiian Electric, the Public Utilities Commission, and other officials, the plan is designed to be driven and supported by Molokai while working together with energy experts and planners. The goal of CERAP is to develop a portfolio of clean energy projects that will provide 100% renewable energy that is feasible, respects Molokai's culture and environment, and has strong community support. The Sustainable Molokai Clean Energy Hui has facilitated the process by identifying priorities and analyzing implementation and funding options. The plan is expected to strengthen infrastructure, increase renewable energy, and improve emergency preparedness on the island. To ensure that the process goes smoothly, CERAP has established a number of guiding principles.
These include: engaging stakeholders in an open and transparent process; developing a plan that is feasible and respects Molokai's culture and environment; ensuring strong community support for the plan; maximizing the use of existing resources; and developing a plan that is financially viable. The CERAP process has already begun with the formation of a steering committee to oversee the planning process. The committee is composed of representatives from various sectors of the community including government, business, education, and non-profit organizations. The committee will be responsible for developing a comprehensive plan that meets the needs of all stakeholders. In addition to the steering committee, CERAP has also established a number of working groups to focus on specific areas such as energy efficiency, renewable energy sources, financing options, and emergency preparedness. Each working group will be responsible for developing specific recommendations for their area of focus. Once the working groups have completed their work, they will present their recommendations to the steering committee for review and approval.
Once approved, the plan will be presented to the Molokai community for feedback before it is finalized. The Molokai Community Energy Resilience Action Plan is an important step towards increasing renewable energy on Molokai and ensuring that the island is prepared for any potential emergencies. By engaging stakeholders in an open and transparent process, developing a plan that respects Molokai's culture and environment, and ensuring strong community support for the plan, CERAP will help ensure that Molokai is well-prepared for any future challenges.
