The Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission has greenlit Puna Geothermal Venture's Repower Project, a significant upgrade aimed at modernizing the geothermal plant's infrastructure while cutting energy costs for consumers. The project will replace 12 aging generating units, operational since the early 1990s, with three state-of-the-art units. These new units will boost output from 38 megawatts to 46 megawatts, further solidifying Hawaiʻi Island's renewable energy leadership, with renewables projected to account for 68% of its electricity generation.

Michael Kaleikini, Senior Director at Puna Geothermal Venture, emphasized the project's dual benefits during a community update meeting. "The modern units are not only more efficient but also reduce our environmental footprint," he said. The upgrade will lower operational costs, translating to an estimated $23.62 monthly savings for residential customers using 500 kilowatt-hours. Hawaiian Electric Co., the utility purchasing the plant's output, confirmed the cost reductions.

The Repower Project also addresses environmental concerns. The streamlined design reduces rotating equipment and piping, minimizing noise and potential geothermal emissions. A lifecycle assessment by the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission highlighted the project's low greenhouse gas intensity, ranking it among the cleanest renewable energy initiatives in the state.

Construction is underway, with land grading and environmental assessments in progress. The new units are expected to be operational by late 2026. Puna Geothermal Venture will continue to provide updates through quarterly community meetings, ensuring transparency as the project advances.