Kihei Building First Renewable Generation Facility in State

By Wendy Osher

DKK Properties in Kihei is the state’s first renewable generation facility under the new Feed-in Tariff program. Partnering to bring this project to fruition were: (L to R) Walter Enomoto (ProVision Solar, Inc.), Ray Phillips (DKK Properties), Ed Reinhardt (President, Maui Electric Company), Doug McLeod (DKK Properties), Dmitri Jarocki (Renewable Energy Services Project Engineer, Maui Electric Company).

DKK Properties in South Maui became Hawaii’s first renewable energy generation facility under the state’s new Feed-in Tariff (FIT) program.

Recently approved by the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, the FIT program establishes energy payment rates based on the type of renewable energy technology used, and the size of the energy generation project.

“It was our intent to streamline the process for renewable energy developers and encourage more renewable energy on our grid,” said Maui Electric Company President Ed Reinhardt. “This interconnection for DKK Properties takes us one step closer to achieving our renewable energy goals.”

DKK Properties is owned in part by the newly Appointed Maui County Energy Commissioner, Doug McLeod.  “Around the world, FIT programs have led to rapid increases in renewable energy use,” said McLeod. “I hope others take advantage of the tax incentives available for projects started in 2011.”

Installed by Pro-Vision Solar, the 8 kilowatt solar photovoltaic (PV) system consists of 28 PV modules that provide clean, renewable energy to the two story building in Kihei.

In its ruling, the PUC approved the purchase by the utilities of up to 60 megawatts (MW) on Oahu, 10 MW on Hawaii Island, and 10 MW in Maui County of renewable energy produced by photovoltaics, concentrated solar power, on-shore wind, or in-line hydropower technologies.

Interested parties can register and apply to participate in the FIT program on the Web, on a first-come, first-served basis.