Wave generated energy is coming to Maui
In a news release from the Hawaiian Electric Company, Oceanlinx Limited, an Australia-based high-tech company, formally announced plans to provide electric power from Hawaii's first wave based energy project. The proposed project aims to provide up to 2.7 megawatts from 2 or 3 floating platforms located half a mile off Pauwela Point on the north shore of Maui. The platforms measure about 65 by 100 feet and 15-25 feet high and will not likely affect the views from shore. On board the platforms, rising and falling seas push and pull air past turbines, creating electricity which is then brought ashore through an undersea cable to a substation tied to the electrical grid. The $20 million ocean power generator would produce enough to power about 500 homes.
This is a new thing for Maui and still needs to go through the permitting process before construction can begin. Negotiations are still underway with Maui Electric Company, regarding distribution and rates. If all goes well, they anticipate being ready to rock and roll within a couple of years.
Pineapples are still grown in the Pauwela area of Haiku. This largely agricultural area will be the distribution point for the inbound electricity.
Learn more about Oceanlinx on their site.
Find out the story behind Oceanlinx from the Maui News.
Thinking of moving to Haiku? HAIKU HOMES FOR SALE
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