Wind Companies Consider Molokai Ranch Land (Hawaii)

[jpak]

http://www.themolokaidispatch.com/node/855

Soaring fuel prices and steady tradewinds are making wind the new oil in Hawaii. As wind companies scramble to gain a foothold across the state, Molokai Ranch land is emerging as a sought after resource.

During a Hawaii State Office of Planning meeting on Molokai in late May, it was revealed that there are two wind companies competing for the build-out of wind farms on Molokai Ranch land.

One of the companies, UPC Wind, is an industry leader in alternative clean energy, and currently operates the largest wind farm in Hawaii located in Kaheawa, Maui.

UPC spokesperson, Noe Kalipi, says the company’s Molokai plan includes the complete buyout of Molokai Ranch properties and would include a transfer of those lands to the community. In return, UPC would lease back acreage from the community for their wind farm.

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