MECO Helps Parent Company Hit New Renewable Record

Kaheawa Wind Farm, aerial file photo by Wendy Osher.

By Maui Now Staff

Hawaiian Electric Companies reached a record 13.9% of energy needs from renewable generation in 2012, claim company officials.

The accomplishment reportedly puts the company closer to a clean energy goal of 15% renewable generation by 2015.

In a company press release announcing the accomplishment, HECO officials attributed the progress to added rooftop and utility-scale solar photovoltaic facilities on all islands; more wind energy on Oahu and Maui; and increased geothermal energy production on Hawaii Island.

The information was compiled as part of the company’s renewable portfolio standard report, filed annually with the PUC.