Hawaiian Electric Reduces Carbon Emissions Amid Pandemic and Supply Chain Issues

Strategic Insights -

Despite the ongoing challenges of the pandemic and supply chain issues, Hawaiian Electric has made significant progress in addressing climate change, as reported in its 2021-22 Corporate Sustainability Report. The company's efforts are reflected in its ability to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 22% last year compared to 2005 baseline levels. Additionally, Hawaiian Electric has surpassed 1 gigawatt of solar capacity across its five island grids and achieved a consolidated renewable portfolio standard of 38% in 2021. The company has also made strides in installing advanced meters and promoting volunteerism.

Key Takeaways:

  • Hawaiian Electric reduced greenhouse gas emissions by 22% in 2021 compared to 2005 baseline levels, based on preliminary data.
  • The company surpassed 1 gigawatt of solar capacity across its five island grids.
  • Hawaiian Electric achieved a consolidated renewable portfolio standard of 38% in 2021, meaning 38% of the company's electricity sales came from renewable resources.
  • The company installed over 61,500 advanced meters, about 13% of customers, in less than a year.
  • Hawaiian Electric logged over 3,555 volunteer hours among 1,556 volunteers.
  • The company plans to reduce GHG emissions by 70% by 2030 compared to 2005 levels.
  • Hawaiian Electric's 15th annual sustainability report highlights the company's efforts to keep customers connected during the pandemic, initiatives to hasten electrification of transportation, and programs to increase rooftop solar adoption and make renewable energy more equitable and accessible for customers.
  • The report features the company's Climate Change Action Plan, which outlines the steps being taken to reduce GHG emissions across the five islands Hawaiian Electric serves.
  • The company is retiring the AES coal plant and promoting energy efficiency, and has partnered with communities to build a more sustainable Hawaii.
  • Approximately 30 grid-scale renewable energy facilities and nearly 20 renewable projects expected to come online over the next few years are showcased in the report.

Statistics:

  • 22% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by Hawaiian Electric in 2021 compared to 2005 baseline levels (based on preliminary data).
  • 1 gigawatt of solar capacity surpassed by Hawaiian Electric across its five island grids.
  • 38% consolidated renewable portfolio standard achieved by Hawaiian Electric in 2021.
  • 61,500-plus advanced meters installed by Hawaiian Electric in less than a year.
  • 3,555 volunteer hours logged by Hawaiian Electric among 1,556 volunteers.
  • 50,000 rooftop solar systems expected to be added to approximately 93,000 already online.
  • 30 grid-scale renewable energy facilities and nearly 20 renewable projects expected to come online over the next few years.

Sources:

  • Hawaiian Electric [Category: Energy, Power, capital goods, ESG]