The Hawaiian island of Molokai is determined to make the switch to clean energy sources and reduce its reliance on imported oil. To this end, the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI) was established as a framework of statutes and regulations backed by a diverse group of stakeholders. This includes government representatives, energy companies, non-profit organizations, and special interest groups. An event held at Washington Place brought these stakeholders together to discuss strategies for increasing the use of renewable energy sources in Molokai. The Department of Energy's Partnership Project for the Energy Transitions Initiative (ETIPP) is providing support for Kauai and the Honolulu-based utility company Hawaiian Electric in identifying and implementing strategies to boost resilience and sustainability.
The Natural Energy Institute of Hawaii, under the University of Hawaii, is also working with these entities to help Molokai transition away from fossil fuels. The HCEI has set ambitious goals for Molokai, including increasing the use of renewable energy sources to 100% by 2045. To reach this goal, the state has implemented several policies that support the use of renewable energy sources. These include tax credits for businesses that install solar panels or other renewable energy systems, grants for research and development of renewable energy technologies, and incentives for businesses that invest in renewable energy projects. The state also provides incentives for individuals who install solar panels or other renewable energy systems on their homes. These incentives include tax credits, grants, and loan programs. Additionally, the state has established a Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) that requires utilities to generate a certain percentage of their electricity from renewable sources. The Hawaiian Electric Company has also implemented several programs to support the use of renewable energy sources in Molokai.
These include net metering programs that allow customers to sell excess electricity generated from their solar panels back to the utility company. The company also offers rebates for customers who install solar panels or other renewable energy systems. The state of Hawaii is committed to transitioning to clean energy sources and reducing its dependence on imported oil. The HCEI and its associated policies are helping Molokai make this transition by providing incentives and support for businesses and individuals who invest in renewable energy projects.
