Do We Want More Local Food Or Cheaper Power? Two Hawaii Priorities Conflict … Renewable energy companies say Honolulu’s plan to designate 12% of Oahu as “Important Agricultural Lands” could hinder the state’s ability to meet its clean energy goals.
Honolulu’s effort to implement a landmark state agricultural lands policy faces opposition from major players in the state’s renewable energy industry, highlighting a major challenge Hawaii faces as it tries to produce more of its own food and electricity in an island chain with limited available land.
Gov. David Ige had set a goal of doubling Hawaii’s food production. Meanwhile the Legislature put in place a mandate of producing 100% of the state’s electricity from renewable sources by 2045.
But energy companies and farmers need the same thing — lots of flat land.
