Hilo, Hawai’i – The Hawaiian Homes Commission is set to hold two public hearings regarding a proposed community-based renewable energy project at Panaewa on the Island of Hawai’i. The hearings aim to inform Hawaiian Home Land beneficiaries and the broader public about the project, as well as to gather feedback from interested parties.

The public hearings will take place on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 6:00 P.M. and Wednesday, February 26, 2025, at 8:30 A.M.

Participants may attend in person or join virtually via Zoom. The in-person locations include the Keaukaha Elementary School Cafeteria on Desha Avenue in Hilo and the Sandalwood Room at the Hilton Grand Naniloa Hotel on Banyan Drive.

The proposed initiative involves a request from Hawaii Land & Power, LLC, for a Right-of-Entry Permit for a duration of up to three years for due diligence activities, alongside a conditional long-term General Lease lasting 25 years with an option to extend, covering 12.75 acres.

The goal is to develop a renewable energy project capable of generating up to 60 megawatts (MW) of firm capacity energy through generation and energy storage solutions.

Community members are encouraged to participate in either session to learn more about the project and to provide oral or written comments. The Hawaiian Homes Commission invites all Hawaiian Home Land beneficiaries and interested parties to engage in this important discussion.

For those requiring accommodations due to disabilities, Michael Lowe can be contacted at 730-0298 or via email at michael.l.lowe@hawaii.gov, preferably by February 18, 2025. The notice is also available in alternate formats upon request.

For further information, please visit the Hilo Renewable Energy Land Use Request link. Join the conversation and contribute to the future of renewable energy in our community!