REC Solar has commenced construction on a 12 MW AC (14.53 MW DC) solar array for Hawaiian utility Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC). With 57,624 panels, the utility solar project will be one of Hawaii’s largest systems upon completion and REC Solar’s largest project to date.

The 60-acre solar PV system will be located in Anahola on the northeast side of the island of Kaua‘i. Upon completion in 2015, it will generate 5% of Kaua‘i’s annual energy needs. A 6 MW lithium-ion battery system will be installed alongside the array to store energy when the sun is shining and distribute it when clouds reduce the system’s output.

By constructing almost 20MW of utility and commercial-scale solar projects, REC Solar has established its position in Hawaii. The Anahola system is the second project that REC Solar has developed with KIUC, following a 1.2 MW array in Kapa‘a. Other commercial systems include wastewater treatment centers, schools and major retailers on the Hawaiian Islands.

“Over many years of experience developing and installing commercial projects in Hawaii, we’ve gained expertise managing approval and development cycles with Hawaiian partners and organizations,” said Drew Bradley, Hawaii Regional Manager at REC Solar. “Our customers count on us through every step of the installation process, from efficiently navigating state regulations to working with the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands. Delays can be costly, so our collaborative process is designed to help customers like KIUC cut through the red tape and expedite construction.”  

A groundbreaking event on June 26, 2014 marked the beginning of construction. Hawaii Lt. Gov. Shan Tsutsui, KIUC president and CEO David Bissell and REC Solar’s Drew Bradley participated in the ceremony, which included a traditional Hawaiian blessing.