Other Projects

EPRI offshore wave energy project

HECO participated in a multi-phase, multi-state collaboration with the Electric Power Research Institute and the Electricity Innovation Institute (E2I) to investigate the feasibility of off-shore wave power. The project provided a conceptual design, including performance and cost estimates, for target locations in six states (Hawaii, Maine, Massachusetts, California, Oregon, and Washington). Environmental and permitting issues also were assessed. You can read the final report. Status:

Biofuels assessment

Before biofuels (e.g., biodiesel, ethanol, etc.) can be used in electric power generating units on a commercial basis, technical feasibility needs to be evaluated and demonstrated. Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light companies continue to assess the use of biofuels in existing and planned generating units. In 2009, testing is planned to begin with blends of low- and medium-sulfur fuel oils and biofuels in steam generation units. Status: Ongoing.

Electrical System Analyses

HECO, HELCO, and MECO are working with research organizations to model the electric infrastructure and potential additions of intermittent renewable resources to characterizs the system operation challenges being faced today and in the future.  Assessing the impacts of intermittent renewable energy resources, such as wind, on utility operations is an important step in trying to increase the state's renewable energy portfolio. Status: Ongoing.

Wind farm electronic shock absorber

Fluctuations in system voltage and frequency caused by the rapidly changing energy output of a wind farm may require disconnection of the wind farm from the transmission system or back up by combustion generation units. To address this issue, an Electronic Shock Absorber was invented and patented by Hawaiian Electric engineers. After initial testing at the Lalamilo Wind Farm on Hawaii Island, the Hawaiian Electric companies are working with a private company to further test a demonstration electronic shock absorber facility that effectively isolates the electric utility transmission system from wind farm energy fluctuations. Status: Ongoing.

Ocean wave energy demonstration

Under a U.S. Department of Defense Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant, the U.S. Navy is partnering with Ocean Power Technologies to assess the technical and economic feasibility of ocean wave energy. An at-sea demonstration of a buoy wave energy system is being conducted at Kaneohe Marine Base, Oahu. Status: Ongoing.

Maui building-integrated PV

Maui Electric Company has provided a solar roof to the County of Maui’s Lahaina Civic Center. The roof forms an extension to a covered walkway to power an electronic sign and parking lot lighting. The solar modules allow light to outline each cell, creating an attractive roofing material that also produces electricity. Status: Operational.

More Sun Power for Schools

Hawaiian Electric, Maui Electric and Hawaii Electric Light companies continue the Sun Power for Schools program with the State of Hawaii Department of Education. The utilities install photovoltaic systems at Hawaii public schools using voluntary customer contributions. To date, 27 public schools have received photovoltaic systems and benefited from the educational material developed as part of the program. Status: Ongoing.

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