Overview
Kaheawa Wind Power II Substation in Hawaii, United States, is an operational 69 kV substation owned by Maui Electric Company, supporting wind power integration into the local grid.
Kaheawa Wind Power II Substation is a key electrical infrastructure asset located in Hawaii, United States, owned and operated by Maui Electric Company. The substation operates at 69 kV, a standard voltage level for distribution and sub-transmission, and is designed to integrate power from the Kaheawa Wind Power II project into Maui's electric grid. As part of the U.S. electrical infrastructure, this substation operates under the regulatory framework of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and adheres to North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC) reliability standards. The 69 kV voltage level places it in the medium-voltage category, typical for wind farm interconnection substations that step up power from turbine voltage to transmission levels. The substation plays a critical role in delivering renewable energy from the Kaheawa wind facility to consumers on Maui, supporting the state's clean energy goals. Its location in a remote island grid underscores its importance for grid stability and energy resilience, as Hawaii transitions toward higher renewable energy penetration.
Environmental context
Located on the island of Maui, Hawaii, the substation is situated in a tropical climate with consistent trade winds that support wind energy generation. The surrounding area includes coastal and upland ecosystems, and the substation's operation is part of a broader effort to reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels. The 69 kV infrastructure is designed to withstand island-specific environmental factors such as high humidity and seismic activity, ensuring reliable power delivery.
Frequently asked questions
Kaheawa Wind Power II Substation is located on the island of Maui, Hawaii, United States, at coordinates 20.812087, -156.547871.
The substation operates at 69 kV, which is a medium-voltage level commonly used for wind farm interconnection and sub-transmission in the United States.
The substation is owned and operated by Maui Electric Company, a utility serving the island of Maui.
As part of the U.S. electrical grid, the substation must comply with NERC reliability standards and FERC regulations for transmission-level assets, ensuring grid stability and security.
The substation interconnects the Kaheawa Wind Power II project to the Maui grid, enabling the delivery of wind-generated electricity to consumers and supporting Hawaii's renewable energy goals.