New Photovoltaic Power Systems To Save Taxpayers Thousands In Energy Costs
4/30: The DOT joined Hoku Solar, a subsidiary of Hoku Scientific, in dedicating a solar, photovoltaic power system at Lihu‘e Airport today. This PV system is one of seven DOT facilities across the state that comprise the DOT’s Photovoltaic Energy Systems Project. The project exemplifies the state’s commitment to lead by example in developing renewable energy strategies that also focus on energy savings.
LIHUE — The state Department of Transportation (DOT) joined Hoku Solar, a subsidiary of Hoku Scientific (NASDAQ: HOKU) in dedicating a solar power system, or photovoltaic (PV) system, at Lihu‘e Airport today. This PV system is one of seven DOT facilities across the state of Hawai‘i that comprise the DOT’s Photovoltaic Energy Systems Project. The project exemplifies the state’s commitment to lead by example in developing renewable energy strategies that also focus on energy savings.
“This initiative advances the state’s continued leadership in reducing our dependency on imported fossil fuels and moves us toward the Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative goal of having 70 percent of Hawa‘ii’s energy come from clean sources by the year 2030,“ said DOT Director Brennon Morioka. “This public-private partnership will bring clean, solar power and provide thousands of dollars in long-term savings, with no up-front cost to our taxpayers,” he added.
The other sites where PV systems were installed include: Kona International Airport at Keahole, Hilo International Airport, Kahului Airport hangar and cargo building, the DOT Highways Division Baseyard in Lihu‘e, and the Nawailwili Harbor DOT Administration building.
Together, these projects are expected to produce 1.2 million kilowatt-hours of clean, solar energy each year, enough to power up to 150 homes. Over the 20 year system lifetime, the arrays will offset up to 12,000 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, the equivalent of removing more than 1,400 cars from the road.
"Hoku is proud to have been selected to partner with the Hawai‘i State Department of Transportation on this effort," said Dustin Shindo, chairman and chief executive officer of Hoku Scientific. "In addition to providing clean, low-cost electricity, these airport solar power systems will remind visitors and kama’aina alike of our state’s deep commitment to implementing renewable energy."
Funding for the project was provided by Hoku Solar and United Fund Advisors through its renewable energy fund with U.S. Bancorp Community Development Corporation.
Sennet Capital of Honolulu arranged and structured the financing for the project.
Work on the Photovoltaic Energy Systems Project began in December, 2008 and was completed at Lihue Airport in mid-April.
(###)
