Maui Electric to Build Storm Water Retention Basin in Mā‘alaea

Maui Electric’s Māʻalaea Generating Plant. PC: file by Kevin J Olson.

Maui Electric Company will begin construction of an earthen berm, or storm water retention basin, fronting its Mā‘alaea Generating Station along North Kīhei Road this month.

The basin is planned to further protect surrounding areas from excess storm water overflow that could occur at the facility during heavy rains.

The work is not expected to impact traffic or electrical service in the area. Construction of the basin is slated to be completed by early 2019.

Built on a parcel of land between the Mā‘alaea facility and N. Kīhei Road, the basin will stand 3-feet-tall and will span approximately 5 acres.  Company representatives say it will not be visible from the road.

“We take our responsibility for the environment very seriously and this new retention basin will provide further protection of the ocean and nearby wetlands by capturing excess storm water runoff at our facility that could occur during heavy rains,” said Mat McNeff, director of power supply at Maui Electric. “With our islands experiencing more severe and frequent storms that result in major flooding, the basin will provide additional protection to our environment by reducing the potential for direct storm water overflow.”

The company currently manages excess storm water runoff, based on industry best management practices that include frequent ground sweeping and equipment cleaning.

The basin will be made primarily of soil, which allows the basin to empty as the storm water percolates into the ground. Once built, the basin would be cleaned as needed.