As the home to the U.S. military’s headquarters for Indo-Pacific operations, Hawai’i’s pivotal role as the United States’ fulcrum in the Pacific is unquestionable. However, Hawai’i’s local energy infrastructure issues have major implications for the security of U.S. forces in the Pacific and may pose a gaping vulnerability to trans-Pacific military logistics.
Furthermore, the effort to stabilize Hawai’i’s electricity grid and production, and ensure adequate power for the islands’ military bases, directly intersects with the development of renewable energy solutions.
Underscoring the salience of this issue, on January 30, a powerful storm bore down on the islands. High winds and heavy rains pose numerous risks, including the downing of power lines. Across the islands, including O’ahu, Hawai’i and Maui, significant power outages affecting thousands were reported though January 31.
Hawai’ian Electric Company
Hawai’i’s power infrastructure and situation is unique compared to most other U.S. states: each of Hawai’i’s islands have independent, insular power networks, though are all primarily operated by one company, Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO). Providing approximately 95 percent of the state’s electricity, HECO is not only a regional monopoly, but a utility company that maintains an import
Continue Reading on The Diplomat
This preview shows approximately 15% of the article. Read the full story on the publisher's website to support quality journalism.