Hot Topic: The Big Isle's west side is where more power is needed

But the best spots for geothermal production are in the east

By Alan Yonan Jr.

POSTED: 01:30 a.m. HST, Nov 19, 2012

~~<p>Hawaii Electric Light Co.'s recently launched search for developers to expand geothermal energy production on Hawaii island emphasizes the potential benefits of locating new production facilities on the west side of the island where population growth is the fastest.</p>
<p>However, the island's lone geothermal plant is in the isolated Puna District in the southeastern part of the island, and power is lost when electricity is transmitted long distances. Losses associated with sending electricity from the plant more than 100 miles to some areas in West Hawaii ultimately adds to the cost of power for ratepayers.</p>
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Hawaii Electric Light Co.'s recently launched search for developers to expand geothermal energy production on Hawaii island emphasizes the potential benefits of locating new production facilities on the west side of the island where population growth is the fastest.

However, the island's lone geothermal plant is in the isolated Puna District in the southeastern part of the island, and power is lost when electricity is transmitted long distances. Losses associated with sending electricity from the plant more than 100 miles to some areas in West Hawaii ultimately adds to the cost of power for ratepayers. Login for more...