Hawaiian Electric Plans Biodiesel-Burning Turbines for Waiau Plant Repowering

Hawaiian Electric Company is embarking on a transformative initiative to revitalize its Waiau Power Plant in Pearl City, with plans to replace six antiquated oil-fired units with state-of-the-art combustion turbines. This ambitious 253 MW project emerged as a standout selection through a competitive procurement process for "firm renewable" generation on O?ahu, marking a significant stride in Hawaiian Electric's 132-year history.

Each of the six combustion turbines, with an individual capacity of around 42 MW, is set to outperform the oil-fired steam boilers they are replacing in terms of size and efficiency. A noteworthy feature of the initial phase involves the utilization of biodiesel, with future adaptability to renewable gas or hydrogen. These combustion turbines are strategically designed to offer continuous availability, catering to the demands of a grid predominantly powered by solar and wind.

The imminent replacement will commence with the retirement of Waiau Units 3 and 4, aged 76 and 73 years, respectively, and scheduled for decommissioning in 2024. The phased replacement of the remaining four units, commissioned between 1959 and 1968, is expected to culminate in all units being online by 2033.

Before this visionary project proceeds, it necessitates final approval from the state's Public Utilities Commission. The comprehensive details, encompassing the project's cost and its potential impact on consumers, will be disclosed upon the submission of the application for approval. The financial outlook is optimistic, anticipating savings over 30 years due to the elimination of maintenance and repair costs associated with the older units. Moreover, the enhanced efficiency of the new units, coupled with their reduced operational frequency, contributes to the anticipated long-term cost-effectiveness compared to the continued operation and maintenance of the aging units.

The context of this initiative extends back to 2013 when Hawaiian Electric laid out plans to deactivate 226 MW of oil-fired power generation, signaling a commitment to transition towards renewable energy sources. In alignment with this trajectory, the Waiau Power Plant took center stage as a focal point for the integration of renewable energy, with two generators earmarked for replacement. The company continued to bolster its commitment to sustainability in 2019 by expressing the need for approximately 900 MW of new renewable energy resources.

As the wheels of progress turn towards the revitalization of the Waiau Power Plant, Hawaiian Electric is poised to set new benchmarks, not only in terms of capacity and efficiency but also in fostering a cleaner and more sustainable energy landscape for O?ahu. The forthcoming years will witness the gradual retirement of aging infrastructure, making way for advanced technologies that align with the company's vision for a resilient and renewable energy future in Hawaii.