Concerns Expressed About Auwahi Wind Farm
Sempra Generation and Ulupalakua Ranch reps held a public meeting on the proposed Auwahi Wind Farm and transmission line slated for the area above La Perouse.
The project will use 15 430 feet high turbines are intended to generate 22MW daily which is expected to supply from 6-10% of Maui’s energy.
Makena Resident Judith Michaels expressed concern about the plan to truck these 165 foot long blades through Wailea, necessitating removing the stop lights, trees and medians on the road past Shops at Wailea to accommodate the huge turning radius these would require. She expressed concern that any accident during these many trips, could block egress from Makena completely.
As a resident at Makena Surf since the late 1980s, this wind project is a huge win win for Maui. In the State of Washington where I am from, we have worked long and hard to achieve these types of project. Let’s work together to make it happen.
I don’t think anyone disagrees that wind is a great way to bring down energy prices on Maui…I think the concern is the location and refining the plan so that potential pitfalls can be avoided.