KIUC Among the Highest in State in Renewable Generation for 2025

Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) achieved a 52.8% Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) for 2025, second highest in the state behind Hawai‘i Island. KIUC continues to be well ahead of the State of Hawaiʻi requirement of 40% renewable by 2030, and on track to meet the mandated 100% renewable by 2045.

2025 Renewable Generation Breakdown

The 52.8% for 2025 was reported to the Hawaiʻi Public Utilities Commission (PUC) in KIUC’s annual RPS filing.  The 2025 performance represents a slight increase over 2024, a growth driven primarily by stronger performance from the Mahipapa biomass facility. Utility-scale solar contributed 24.5% of KIUC’s generation in 2023, with 14.3% generated from members’ rooftop systems. Other renewables contributing in 2025 were hydropower (9%) and biomass (5%). 

Member Savings and Rate Stabilization

KIUC’s high percentage of renewable generation has helped to stabilize rates, with KIUC consistently posting the lowest, or among the lowest, rates in the state since May 2022.  “Our renewable energy is purchased under fixed-price power purchase agreements, which helps buffer our rates from the volatility of global oil pricing,” said KIUC’s President and Chief Executive Officer, David Bissell. 

Five utility-scale solar projects placed into service since 2014 have been the main impetus for Kaua‘i’s RPS progress. KIUC’s Chief of Operations Brad Rockwell points out the value of this renewable transition is most acutely felt when oil prices increase sharply, as has been the case for the past few months. “Without those large solar projects, we estimate the average KIUC residential bill would have been $41 higher this month alone.”

Meeting Strategic Goals

KIUC’s Board of Directors has set a strategic goal of reaching 100% renewable by 2033; a full 12 years ahead of the State of Hawai‘i mandate. If two new renewable projects currently under development are delivered into service as proposed, KIUC could be approaching 90% renewable by 2030.

More information on KIUC’s strategic goals can be found on the cooperative’s website: www.kiuc.coop/strategic-plan.

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