The U.S. Department of Energy's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) has signed a memorandum of understanding with UPC Wind to establish a remote research affiliate partner site at UPC Wind's Kaheawa Wind Farm in Maui, Hawaii.
The Maui partner site will conduct research and development on advanced wind energy technologies, including operational and control studies, energy storage options and integration of renewable electricity into existing grids. The research goal is to help maximize the integration of wind into Hawaii's utility system so that this renewable resource can compete with traditional energy sources.
‘The establishment of a partner site of the National Renewable Energy Laboratory on Maui recognizes our islands' abundant renewable resources and the advancements we are making to transform Hawaii into one of the world's first economies based primarily on clean energy resources,’ says Gov. Linda Lingle, R-Hawaii. ‘This partnership will provide Hawaii with invaluable technical assistance, access to leading-edge research and relationships with additional national partners as we seek to develop innovative approaches to increase our energy independence and reduce our reliance on imported fossil fuels.’
