Geothermal Energy in Hawaii: The Current State and Future Prospects

As of March 2019, Hawaii generated no geothermal power. Although there were promising efforts, the Puna Geothermal Venture plant that once supplied approximately 38 megawatts (MW) was shut down due to lava flows in 2018. This article explores the current state of geothermal energy in Hawaii and discusses the future possibilities.

Understanding Hawaii's Energy Landscape

Hawaii is an island state with unique energy challenges. Unlike many continental states, Hawaii is isolated and faces high energy costs due to the need for expensive transportation and importation of fossil fuels. The islands have a variety of energy sources with prevalent use of solar, ocean, wind, and biomass, but geothermal energy plays a minor role in the current power mix.

The Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV)

Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV) was once the largest geothermal power plant in the state of Hawaii, generating around 38 MW, which is only a fraction of Hawaii’s total power needs of 1.7 gigawatts (GW) at the time. The plant was located on the southeastern coast of the Big Island of Hawaii, an area known for its active volcanic activity.

Unfortunately, the plant faced a significant setback in 2018 when lava flows from a nearby active volcano destroyed the facility, leading to its temporary shutdown. Efforts are underway to restart the plant, but these efforts may take up to 18 months to complete, depending on the progress and resources allocated.

Potential for Geothermal Energy in Hawaii

While the Puna site is currently non-operational, the potential for geothermal energy in Hawaii remains significant. According to the Hawaii Electric Company, possible geothermal resources could be present in West Hawaii and on the island of Maui. However, no geothermal resources have been identified on Oahu that could be utilized for electricity generation.

The high concentration of the population (70%) and corresponding electricity usage on Oahu makes it challenging to rely on geothermal power from other islands. Furthermore, the insularity of the Hawaiian islands hampers the feasibility of undersea power cables from more geothermal-rich areas to Oahu.

Alternative Renewable Energy Sources in Hawaii

Despite the limitations of geothermal energy, Hawaii has embraced various alternative renewable energy sources:

Solar Energy

Solar energy is a prominent player in Hawaii's renewable energy mix. Given the unique geography and sunny climate, solar installations have grown significantly. Solar power plants and residential solar panel installations are widespread across the islands.

Ocean Energy

Hawaii has a promising future in ocean energy, which includes various forms like wave power, tidal currents, and ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC). Marine renewable energy is still in the developmental stage, but the state government is keen on exploring and promoting these technologies.

Wind Energy

Given the topography and weather patterns of Hawaii, wind energy is also a viable option. Wind turbines can be installed in appropriate areas, particularly on the windward sides of the islands. Despite its potential, wind energy has not gained the same scale as solar energy due to technical and economic challenges.

Biomass Energy

Biomass energy harnesses organic material like agricultural waste and forestry residue. This energy source has potential in Hawaii but is less common compared to solar and wind. However, it remains a viable option for energy diversification.

The Future of Geothermal Energy in Hawaii

While geothermal energy faces significant challenges in Hawaii, ongoing research and pilot projects continue to explore its potential. Advances in geothermal technology and efficiency may make it more feasible in the future. Additionally, symbiotic relationships between geothermal and other renewable sources could enhance the reliability and sustainability of Hawaii's energy mix.

The future of geothermal energy in Hawaii depends on technological advancements, financial support, and public policy. As renewable energy technology continues to evolve, the potential for geothermal energy expansion and integration into Hawaii's energy sector remains promising.

For more updates on Hawaii's energy landscape and geothermal energy-specific developments, stay tuned to relevant reports and news outlets focused on renewable energy innovations.