Newsletter: The Benefits of Biomass-Generated Energy for Hawaii

To understand the benefits of biomass, we first need to understand what biomass is. Recognized by both the federal and state governments as a renewable energy source, biomass combusts plant-based materials to generate electricity.

Trees grown as a crop are the primary source for biomass, although invasive tree species and other wood byproducts can also be used. The Green Team biomass facility on Kauai, for example, uses albiza and other invasive species to provide always-on (firm) power.

Because biomass provides firm power, it can replace coal and petroleum-based fossil fuels that have traditionally been relied on to support the grid.

With the help of a firm renewable energy source, which Honua Ola will provide, biomass can support intermittent renewable energy sources, like solar and wind, while allowing Hawaiian Electric to retire its old fossil fuel plants that emit tons of greenhouse gases.

With all renewables working together, including biomass, we can advance Hawaii towards its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045.

Community Benefits of Honua Ola

In the case of Honua Ola, biomass can contribute to the community in a number of ways:

• 14,000 homes and businesses can be powered by Honua Ola alone, delivering 14% of Hawaii Island’s power needs.
• 250,000 fewer barrels of fossil fuel will be burned annually.
  $56 million* will remain in our local economy each year, instead of leaving the islands to buy and import foreign oil.
• 20,000 acres of replacement tree crops will provide timber, enabling sustainable carbon-negative energy.
• 3.1 million trees are committed to being planted when the power purchase agreement becomes effective.

*Using current U.S. Energy Information Administration spot market prices.