Frequently asked questions
The Public Utilities Commission has directed Hawaiian Electric to identify at least two REZ on O‘ahu by the second quarter of 2026. This is a key step in helping Hawai‘i reach its clean energy goals and create a more sustainable, reliable and resilient energy system.
Identifying and developing renewable energy zones typically involves:
- Data analysis to identify optimal zones for clean energy
- Community engagement to ensure alignment with local values and priorities
- Environmental review and development of scoring criteria to rank zones
- Phased implementation including planning, permitting and construction of transmission and generation infrastructure
Safety is a core part of renewable energy zones planning. As we evaluate potential zones and transmission corridors, we incorporate wildfire risk maps, vegetation patterns, terrain, weather trends and emergency response access. Hawaiian Electric is also integrating renewable energy zone planning with its established wildfire mitigation programs, which include system hardening, vegetation management and operational protocols. Our goal is to identify locations that reduce risk, improve system resilience, and support statewide emergency preparedness.
Renewable energy zones are focused on grid-scale renewable resources, including large generation facilities and transmission infrastructure to connect generation to the grid. The analysis is investigating renewable technologies, including wind turbines, solar facilities and clean synchronous generation, as well as battery storage and electric substations, poles and wires.
Yes. Renewable energy zone planning includes grid-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) as part of the broader mix of technologies needed to support a reliable, clean energy grid. Storage helps smooth variable resources like wind and solar, improves system stability, and supports resilience during outages or extreme weather. When evaluating potential renewable energy zones, Hawaiian Electric considers the location, sizing and infrastructure needs for both renewable generation and the storage required to make those resources dependable.
Hawaiian Electric will follow the law and the Governor’s executive order to determine a cost-effective path to transition our fleet to 100% renewable energy by 2045. It has not been determined what role LNG may serve, if any, as a “bridge fuel” to replace all oil for electricity generation.
We have reviewed the Hawaii State Energy Office's study finding LNG to be the most cost-effective transitional fuel for this purpose until renewables are fully integrated, and we are also aware the governor recently signed a strategic partnership agreement to move forward with this plan.
We also are keeping tabs on the significant opposition and potential obstacles to using LNG including environmental concerns and the need for federal and local regulatory approvals.
You’ll see invitations to share your thoughts online and in person about:
- Locations for future energy projects
- How best to involve your community in new project identification and development
We will use input from community members and technical experts to inform our recommendations to the Public Utilities Commission about these two topics.
