Customer-distributed energy resources, or DER, refer to smaller generators located throughout the energy grid, such as private solar or rooftop battery storage systems mounted in customers' homes and businesses. These systems and tools contribute to creating a clean and resilient energy network, which is based on diverse renewable energy sources and at different power generation scales. Hawaii is a leader in terms of customer-focused emission reductions and has several programs available for customers who want to offset their energy bill by investing in clean energy generation.
Hawaiian Electric
is exploring wind energy options both on the island and offshore, as well as strategies to plan for natural wind fluctuations, ensuring a more stable and predictable energy flow.The Hawaiian Electric team is providing technical support to the Molokai Clean Energy Center in its planning process to develop a portfolio of clean energy projects in order to make 100% renewable energy on the island feasible, respectful of Molokai's culture and environment, and with strong community support. Hawaiian Electric recently released a draft Request for Proposals (RFP) to identify new opportunities for renewable energy projects in Maui. An interactive map of proposed renewable energy zones for potential future energy projects is available for exploration. Like many utility companies around the world, Hawaiian Electric is addressing the changing supply chain disruptions affecting some renewable energy projects.
Hawaiian Electric is looking for a developer to build and maintain the largest renewable energy project and the first to offer the island's shared solar program. The more renewable energy that comes into operation, the less we will depend on imported oil and we will be tied to the price fluctuations associated with fossil fuels. These self-construction projects will help the power grid incorporate more renewable sources and ensure grid stability, while reducing emissions from thermal power plants. In order to successfully integrate renewable energy sources into existing systems and processes, Hawaiian Electric needs to take immediate action.
This requires improved energy policies, coordination of regulatory processes, and strong community participation. Planning for a clean energy future isn't as simple as disconnecting from fossil fuels and connecting to renewable energy like solar and wind. Read about Molokai residents who purchased energy saving kits from Hawaii Energy, the Maui County Water Supply Department, and Hawaiian Electric. Hawaiian Electric is committed to providing reliable service while transitioning to a clean energy future.
To achieve this goal, they are working with customers, communities, government agencies, environmental organizations, and other stakeholders to develop innovative solutions that will help integrate renewable sources into existing systems and processes. Integrating renewable sources into existing systems requires an understanding of how these sources interact with traditional power grids. Renewable sources such as solar or wind can be unpredictable due to weather conditions or other factors. This means that Hawaiian Electric must be prepared for sudden changes in power output from these sources. To do this, they must have an efficient system in place that can quickly adjust power output from traditional sources when needed. Hawaiian Electric must also consider how their customers can benefit from integrating renewable sources into their systems.
For example, customers may be able to save money by investing in rooftop solar panels or battery storage systems that can provide them with clean electricity during peak hours when traditional sources are more expensive. Additionally, customers may be able to take advantage of net metering programs that allow them to sell excess electricity back to Hawaiian Electric at a profit. Finally, Hawaiian Electric must ensure that their systems are able to handle the increased demand for electricity that comes with integrating renewable sources. This means that they must invest in infrastructure upgrades such as transmission lines or substations that can handle the increased load. Additionally, they must ensure that their systems are able to handle any fluctuations in power output from renewable sources. Integrating renewable sources into existing systems is an important step towards creating a cleaner and more resilient energy network.
By taking immediate action and working with customers, communities, government agencies, environmental organizations, and other stakeholders, Hawaiian Electric can ensure that their systems are able to handle the increased demand for electricity while providing reliable service.
