Amendment to Geothermal Resource Permit (GRP 2) applicant : Puna Geothermal Venture TMK: 1-4-1: Por. 2, 3, Por. 19, and 53

Abstract

Pursuant to Rule 12-9(a) of the Planning Commission Rules, Puna Geothermal Venture (PGV) requests the County of Hawaii Planning Commission's approval of certain amendments to the existing Geothermal Resource Permit (GRP) issued October 3, 1989. In light of the increased demand for energy production since the issuance of the GRP, PGV seeks an increase in the maximum level of electricity which may be generated by PGV's geothermal operation. When the GRP was issued in 1989, the Island of Hawaii consumed a peak of 130 MW of electrical energy. Consumption since then has steadily increased to a 170 MW peak in 1999. With the anticipated growth of the Island, it is expected that the peak requirement will increase 3-4 MW each year. PGV proposes to help meet this growing energy need and can do so within the next two to five years with its existing production wells. In addition, the ability to add to the generating capability of the plant could be done in a cost effective manner without increasing any risk to public health or welfare. In the past twelve years, there have been advancements in the technology and methodology of generating electricity from geothermal steam. PGV seeks the ability to use more efficient and effective equipment in its operation and has provided herein certain amendments in the description of the categories of equipment that can be used. Since the GRP was originally issued, much has also transpired in the context of the regulation of geothermal energy production. Permits and regulatory oversight by other agencies with expertise in the area now overlap some of the existing conditions of the GRP. Specific standards relating to matters such as noise and air emissions have since been promulgated by other agencies. Amendments are proposed to GRP conditions to acknowledge the jurisdiction of other agencies and to diminish inconsistency and overlapping with the standards and requirements of other agencies. The passage of time also requires a review of the original structuring and administration of the Geothermal Asset Fund that was established pursuant to the terms of the GRP and to which PGV has made annual contributions of $50,000. The fund is now in excess of $1 Million and continues to earn interest. The total amount of claims against the Geothermal Asset Fund which have been approved since the inception of the Fund do not exceed $1,800.