The BioReal solar power plant will generate about 1.2 million kilowatts per year, the equivalent energy to power 200 households, a news release said. Through a public-private partnership, Maui Electric Co., Flyers Energy, Solaria Corp. and Pacific Power Renewables teamed to leverage Hawaii's feed-in tariff program to build and develop the project. Flyers Energy contracted with MECO for a 20-year power purchase agreement for the BioReal power plant. The project is located in the area of Piilani Highway and Kulanihakoi Street. Arakawa said his goal is to see Maui powered 100 percent by alternative energy sources, including solar, wind, geothermal and ocean thermal.
He said the industry should be deregulated and called on Maui and Hawaiian Electric and state legislators to work together to make that happen. The blessing was conducted by Kahu Alalani Hill.
Article Photos
Dignitaries including (from left) Pacific Power Renewables Chief Executive Officer David Dwelle and Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa, toss handfuls of Hawaiian sea salt during a blessing for the 568-kilowatt BioReal solar power plant in Kihei on Thursday morning.
The Maui News / MATTHEW THAYER photo
