In addition to environmental, land and building permits, Hamakua Energy also looked at any potential impact on our island’s cultural resources. As a precaution, we are commissioning independent, third-party evaluators to conduct an archeological study to identify any potential cultural impacts on property so that we can develop appropriate mitigation plans.
A number of site investigations and archeological assessments have been conducted in the past and no cultural impacts were identified. An updated assessment will ensure there have been no changes. When completed, the results of this new study will be available for the public to maintain our commitment to transparency.
Permits and Past Studies
1996
A special permit granted to the original Hamakua Energy plant in 1996 (SPP 96-12), which affirmed that the power plant is “consistent with the goals, policies and standards of the General Plan.”
2008:
In 2008, comprehensive archaeological investigations of our property were conducted in the ahupuaa of Nienie and Papuaa in the Hamakua District to determine if significant historic properties exist within the perimeter of our property. These archaeological investigations also met the requirements of the State Historic Preservation Division of the Hawaii Department of Land and Natural Resources. The purpose of these investigations was to make recommendations to mitigate the impact of future construction activities upon potentially significant historic resources. A site surface survey showed there was only modem debris less than 50 years of age and the consultants determined that no properties of significance to the interests of historic preservation were present.
2017
Since the land was previously the site of Hamakua Sugar Company Haina Mill, which was previously used to process sugarcane into raw sugar before closing in 1994, another archeological study, conducted in 2017, showed there are no archaeological resources in this area.
Click the links below to view assessment study:
We invite you to join us as we shape Hawaii Island’s energy future together.
