Photo: Sempra U.S. Gas & Power
Situated along the slopes of the Haleakala volcano in Maui, Hawaii, a wind farm with eight Siemens turbines will generate enough electricity to power thousands of homes.
More than 200 guests attended the Feb. 22 dedication ceremony, which included traditional Hawaiian chants and prayers. “Auwahi Wind Farm is critically important,” U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz said. “This is about keeping Maui Maui and setting an example not just for the state, but the rest of the nation.”
Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui, who was born on Maui, said the state welcomed the wind farm as it brought more than 180 much-needed jobs. Four full-time employees will now operate the installation.
The project will help Hawaii reach its goal of securing 40% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030.
Installation Notes
Funding: The Auwahi Wind Farm is 50:50 owned by BP Wind Energy and Sempra U.S. Gas & Power.
Location: The 5,400-acre site is located on the southeastern island of Maui, Hawaii.
Turbines: Eight Siemens wind turbines will generate 21 MW of power. The turbines have a hub height of 262 ft. and a rotor diameter of 331ft.
Battery: An 11-MW grid battery system will help regulate and sustain power to Maui Electric Co.’s grid during light wind conditions.
Filed Under: Community wind
