Island Watch
NBC Permit to Film at Mahai`ula Allows Use of Site 20 Days Per Month The state Film Office has issued a permit to NBC to use Kekaha Kai State Park as a site for filming a new series, to be … Continued
Maui Electric Faces Challenge In Plans for New Power Plant
After spending several years searching for a site, Maui Electric Company is proposing to build a new power generation plant on 66 acres at Waena, near Pu`unene. The state Land Use Commission is now considering MECO’s application to place the … Continued
The MECO Challenge: Can Maui Meet It?
Does Maui need a new power plant? The answer depends on Mauians. Yes, absolutely, if the island’s residents do nothing to bring about a radical change in their electricity consumption. Maybe. Even if residents and businesses effect dramatic changes in … Continued
Demand-Side Management Program Falls Short of MECO Projections
In the environmental impact statement for the proposed Waena power plant, Maui Electric Company refers to its energy-conservation program as “one of the most aggressive and dynamic in the United States.” If this “aggressive” program meets its goals, Maui’s demand … Continued
Some Facts and Figures About Energy Use in Hawai'i
Hawai’i is blessed with abundant sunshine and a temperate climate. In contrast to many parts of the mainland United States, no significant energy is spent in Hawai’i on heating costs (other than hot-water heating). In addition, buildings can be designed … Continued
Developer Breaks Faith with DLNR Over Use of Kona's Judd Trail
A century and a half ago, the kingdom of Hawai’i undertook a road-building project that, in its time, was probably no less ambi–tious than that of today’s H-3 freeway. The idea was to connect Kona with Hilo by the most … Continued
Water Commission Extends Deadline For Restoration of Waipi`o Valley Falls
It will be at least another six months, and probably much longer than that, before the twin falls at the back of Waipi`o Valley are both running. The state Commission on Water Resource Management has voted to give Bishop Estate … Continued
Two Terms as Maui Mayor Show Lingle's Stand Toward Environment
Republican Maui Mayor Linda Lingle has made no secret of her intention to run for governor. However, to most Hawai`i residents outside Maui County, Lingle’s record on many issues remains a mystery. Environment Hawai`i in this issue reviews Lingle’s record … Continued
Questions over Environmental Assessment, Sublease of State Land Hound Unisyn
For several years now, many residents of Waimanalo have been protesting what they say are noxious odors emanating from a waste processing facility called Unisyn. The smells are far worse than the usual odors associated with dairies and piggeries, residents … Continued