Blue Planet Summit Focuses on Renewables in Hawaii
by Kenny Luna, North Babylon, NY on 04.10.08
Noting Hawaii’s vulnerability to interruptions in their supply chain as the world’s most remote island chain, the first annual Blue Planet Summit took place last weekend in an effort to focus the energy of Hawaii, both natural and social, on the urgency of ending our dependence on oil and a push towards clean renewable energy.
Of course, what some may view as vulnerability may actually turn out to be its greatest strength. With the very isolation of the Hawaiian Islands making them an ideal laboratory for developing and evaluating the success of various renewable energy technologies like wave, wind, solar and geothermal power.
Let’s face it; with tourism accounting for the lions’ share of their economy, the truth is that they simply can’t afford not to try everything imaginable to cut energy costs in the face of increasing fuel prices. For while Hawaii is among the most beautiful places on Earth, the truth is that rising energy prices could well mean that most vital of Hawaiian industries goes the way of the ground-nesting bird.
via:: Blue Planet Foundation
What do the locals think about those big blades? Kind of changes the natural landscape, dontcha think? On the other hand, a coal plant would, too. And you don't need to bring in wind on train cars. Just wondering. Solar?
Jeff.
I wonder if they will now be willing to pay for upkeep of the wind turbines that they already have on the Big Island. When I was there 3 1/2 years ago half of them either had no spires, were in poor condition, or just weren't running at all. On our tour the guide mentioned that the reason that they were the way they were was because they couldn't afford the upkeep. Somehow I doubt that will change anytime soon.
Renewable energy is the only thing that makes sense on the Islands!
Certainly wind power is part of the solution. They should be clever enough to capture some of the tremendous energy of the seas that surround them. All of the Islands were formed volcanically. Surely the vast stores of geothermal heat can also be utilized.
It would be an ideal place for plug-in hybrid automobiles and trucks using fuel cells to supplement battery storage when needed. So, all homes, business activities, and transportation could run on renewable energy.
Silicon Valley became a major producer of software. Green Islands have the opportunity to become a major exporter of green technology expertise.