frequently asked questions

The project combines 20 MW of solar photovoltaic electric capacity with 20 MW, 4-hour (80 MWh) of battery energy storage on land owned by Maui Land and Pineapple Company, Inc. (MLP) in Napili-Honokowai on the island of Maui. 

The Kahana site is located 1.4 miles mauka from the Kapalua Airport and the nearest residential community. The site is adjacent to existing transmission infrastructure and in an area with an excellent solar resource. The Project would utilize agricultural land, which has not sustained active activities since 2009; therefore, the installation of a solar project would not displace existing agricultural production.

For 30 years, Innergex has believed in a world where abundant renewable energy promotes healthier communities and creates shared prosperity. As an independent renewable power producer which develops, acquires, owns and operates hydroelectric facilities, wind farms, solar farms and energy storage facilities, Innergex is convinced that generating power from renewable sources will lead the way to a better world. Innergex conducts operations in Canada, the United States, France and Chile.

Innergex will be responsible for 100% of the development, construction, and start-up costs. After completion, Innergex will also be responsible for all operational and maintenance costs.

Kahana will power approximately 11,600 homes with renewable energy. This will contribute to the State of Hawai’i’s goal to be 100% renewable by 2045 and reduce the state’s dependency on imported fossil fuels. The project capitalizes on an abundant solar resource which is the least expensive form of renewable energy available in Hawai’i today.

In keeping with Innergex’s core values, preference will be given to local suppliers and contractors throughout the development of the project. During operations, the project’s community benefits package will be dedicated to funding the Pu’u Kukui Watershed Preserve to support its impressive conservation initiatives. Innergex will also provide an annual grant to non-profits to support energy efficiency measures and will support the cultural resource activities of the Aha Moku O Ka’anapali. Our community contributions will also include memberships and sponsorships of various organizations and events.

Respecting the archaeological, cultural, and environmental features of any site that Innergex develops is a priority. These studies and analyses will be conducted to gain a thorough understanding of the site and any findings. The intent is to arrive at the best possible final layout that balances archaeological, cultural, environmental, technical, economic, and community considerations.

As part of the decommissioning of a typical solar project after its useful lifecycle (between 25-35 years), any and all components associated with the project would be removed and the area returned to substantially the same condition as existed prior to project development. Decommissioning criteria include consideration of local environmental factors to minimize effects such as erosion during the removal process, and the recycling of all possible materials demolished or removed from the site.

Reuse or recycling of materials would be prioritized over disposal. Recycling is an area of great focus in the solar industry, and programs for both batteries and solar panels are advancing every year. Panels and batteries would most likely be shipped to recycling facilities on the mainland.

If any materials need replacing before the facility end-of-life, Innergex would seek the most environmentally-responsible route for reuse, recycling or disposal.