MEDIA RELEASE

(HILO, HAWAII) The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) yesterday issued a final decision for Hawaii Electric Light Company’s (HELCO) 2010 rate case. The decision may result in a small reduction in electric rates for Hawaii Island electric customers going forward.

HELCO must still perform the detailed calculations to implement the rate adjustment, which must be approved by the PUC. The Hawaii State Office of Consumer Advocacy will also review the calculations. Previously, the PUC had approved a 1.74% interim increase, or $6 million in revenues, which has been reflected on electric bills for more than a year, since January 2011.

The 2010 rate case, filed in 2009, was requested to help pay for more than $200 million in capital improvements that are already serving customers. Some examples include HELCO’s steam generating unit at Keahole, which generates power using waste heat from two existing generators rather than using oil, and two West Hawaii transmission line upgrades. The rate case also covered increasing operations and maintenance costs for the island’s electric system. HELCO’s original request was for a 6% increase, or $20.9 million in revenues.

“We understand high electric bills are creating an even heavier burden on our customers. These investments will enable us to improve service, make better use of clean energy, and reduce our dependence on imported oil. Currently, more than half of a customer’s electric bill goes to pay for oil,” said Jay Ignacio, HELCO president.

In addition, the PUC decision implements a new method for setting future electric rates called “decoupling.” Decoupling is one of many major policy steps intended to reduce Hawaii’s dependence on imported oil.

Decoupling breaks the historic link between electricity usage and utility revenues. This allows utilities to better support increased energy efficiency, conservation and increased use of renewable energy resources. This helps to reduce the amount of fuel oil used to produce electricity. Individual electric bills will still be based on the amount of electricity a customer uses, so customers will still have an incentive to conserve and use electricity efficiently.

Decoupling will have no immediate impact on customer bills. Any annual adjustment, after review by the Consumer Advocate and PUC, is expected to be modest and begin no earlier than this summer.

–

Hawaii 24/7 file video of the PUC in Hilo and Jay Ignacio explaining decoupling

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii, February 6- Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have risen 0.6 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.11/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 3.0 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.43/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com.

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 40.6 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 14.1 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 10.2 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 31.9 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“The national average has continued on its upward trend as we move closer to spring and EPA-mandated cleaner burning gasoline,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “The smaller movements in gasoline prices as of late in areas of the country will certainly not hold much longer. Gasoline prices tend to start moving significantly higher towards the end of February and into mid-March, so motorists should be preparing for higher prices,” DeHaan said.

MEDIA RELEASE

Government officials and private sector leaders on Friday joined Gov. Neil Abercrombie and Choi Kyu-Chong, Director of the Electricity Market and Smart Grid Division at the Republic of Korea Ministry of Knowledge Economy (MKE), at the Hawaii State Capitol as the two leaders signed a letter of intent to pursue mutual interests in smart grid development in the Hawaiian Islands.

“We are delighted that the Republic of Korea has seen the value of partnering with Hawaii on a mutually beneficial smart grid development project,” Abercrombie said. “Partnerships like this show the world just how serious Hawaii is about our commitment to building a leading clean energy economy through clean energy demonstration and implementation. We are building an energy legacy for our state that will benefit the people of Hawaii for generations.”

Korea and the United States, specifically Hawaii, have been conducting a number of relevant smart grid demonstration projects. Korea and State of Hawaii recognize that it would be mutually beneficial to collaborate on smart grid research, development and demonstration projects in conjunction with public/private partners from Korea, Hawaii and elsewhere in the United States.

“The Republic of Korea and the State of Hawaii both share the common goals of clean energy and energy independence,” said Director Choi Kyu-Chong. “The language that we share is that of green growth, independence and prosperity. Through the development of advanced energy technologies, including smart grid, we can sustain and prosper.”

MKE and its Korea Smart Grid Institute (KSGI) have been at the forefront of the Korea Smart Grid Roadmap, South Korea’s plan to develop and implement a nationwide smart grid by 2030.

The MKE and KSGI are currently leading more than 170 South Korean companies in the development and deployment of the Jeju Island Test Bed, a planned 6,000 household smart grid community demonstration project in South Korea, with investments totaling more than $240 million between 2009 and 2013.

KSGI is also currently implementing a joint Korea-State of Illinois project to install energy-saving equipment in at least four Chicago buildings with investments of more than $35 million by companies such as LG Electronics and KT Corporation (formerly known as Korea Telecom).

The goal of the partnership between Korea and Hawaii is to develop a memorandum of understanding for a project in Hawaii similar to those mentioned above. Such a partnership would help both partners achieve the mutual goals of smart grid development and deployment, which ultimately improves energy efficiency and promotes economic growth.

“The state currently has approximately 80 renewable energy projects in various stages of development in the queue,” said state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Director Richard Lim. “Building a smart grid system will help us manage the power that is generated by renewable resources, which means more projects can come to fruition. That translates into more jobs for our local economy.”

The next step outlined in the letter of intent is for both parties to collaborate on a more defined memorandum of understanding by October 31, 2012, which will describe the project partners, scope, location and resource contributions.

This project is in addition to another smart grid demonstration project that is currently taking place on Maui, which was brought forward through an agreement with Japan-based New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) in November of 2011.

— Find out more:
www.energy.hawaii.gov

MEDIA RELEASE

First project in Arizona to use concentrated solar power with dual effect absorption chiller

Tucson, Arizona – February 3, 2012 – Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, Nancy Sutley, will visit Davis-Monthan Air Force Base today to inspect an air conditioning project that will be fueled by the sun. In a collaborative RDT&E effort, ESTCP, the US Navy and NASA have partnered to build the solar air conditioning system on the Air Force Base. They have selected Sopogy, a Hawaii-based clean tech, as technology provider.

Sopogy’s technology is called MicroCSP for micro-concentrated solar power. MicroCSP is a renewable source of energy delivered through modular, parabolic solar collectors. Sopogy’s collectors are twelve feet long, and weigh less than two-hundred pounds.

At Davis-Monthan AFB, the solar air conditioning system will provide sixty-six tons of chilled air to the Youth Center. Seventy-two MicroCSP collectors will concentrate the sun’s heat onto receiver tubes carrying heat transfer fluid to fuel the chiller. The dual-effect absorption chiller generates cold air with heat, not electricity, the hotter the sun, the more effective the chiller. In addition to the solar collectors, Sopogy is providing proprietary thermal storage to back-up the cooling system. MicroCSP thermal storage is low cost relative to batteries. When clouds roll in, hot fluid will flow from storage to the chiller for continuous production.

Department of Defense studies have concluded that air conditioning accounts for 30-60% of its total facility energy expenditures. Switching from fossil fuels to solar heat will help the DOD to meet is aggressive renewable energy targets. The demonstration project at Davis-Monthan AFB is scheduled for completion in March 2012.

MEDIA RELEASE

Walgreen Co. Voluntarily Recalls Certain Lots of 13 Oz. Chocolate-Covered Raisins As Product May Contain Peanuts, Almonds, Soy Due to Packaging Error

Chocolate Covered Raisins packaging

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 28, 2012 – Walgreen Co. is voluntarily recalling certain lots of 13-oz. Walgreens Chocolate-Covered Raisins because the packages may contain Walgreens Bridge Mix with peanut, almond and soy ingredients.

The error occurred when Walgreens Bridge Mix was mistakenly packaged with the Walgreens Chocolate-Covered Raisin labeling. Walgreens discovered the incident after receiving a consumer complaint of an allergic reaction. The product manufacturer, GKI Foods, Inc. of Brighton, Mich., is also cooperating in the voluntary recall.

Walgreen Co. has already instructed stores to stop selling the affected product, which can be identified as a blue and white plastic bag with chocolate-covered raisins pictured on the front and the following identifying information on the back label: best by date of “Oct 42012A1″, UPC number 04902245661, and item number 280217. The affected product was distributed through Walgreen Co. distribution centers in Arizona, Connecticut and California and to Walgreens retail stores in the Northeastern and Western United States. Customers who have purchased the product may return it to Walgreens for a full refund.

Walgreen Co. and GKI Foods Inc. take the safety of their customers seriously and are working with the FDA on this recall. For additional information, contact Walgreens Product Quality Department at 847-315-2755, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. central time.

MEDIA RELEASE

State of Hawai’i adds $150,000 to EV Ready Rebate Program, pushes deadline to March

HONOLULU – The State of Hawai’i is re-energizing its successful EV Ready Rebate Program with an additional $150,000 and has extended the deadline for rebates on new electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and chargers from January 31 to March 31, 2012.

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and will run through the deadline or while funds are available, whichever comes first. The State anticipates an increase in consumer demand for new electric vehicles this year.

From early January 2011 to mid-January of this year, 528 rebates have been approved for 318 electric vehicles and 210 chargers, with $153,999 remaining in funding as of January 23. The additional funds increase the available total to $303,999. Rebate forms are available on the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s (DBEDT) State Energy Office website at electricvehicle.hawaii…

The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs will continue administering the EV Ready Rebate Program.

“The State of Hawai’i is definitely becoming a national leader when it comes to the acceptance of vehicles that are 100 percent electric,” said Mark Glick, Energy Program Administrator for the DBEDT’s State Energy Office. “With the cost of gas still on the rise, these vehicles offer consumers a cost-effective, long-term advantage. Expanding the EV Ready Rebate Program not only helps consumers today, but it will help our State in the long run as we work to reach our energy independence goals.”

Hawai’i residents can apply for State rebates of up to $4,500 on purchases of electric vehicles and up to $500 for electric vehicle chargers through the Hawai’i Electric Vehicle (EV) Ready Program. In addition to the State EV rebates, federal tax incentives of up to $7,500 are also available for highway-capable vehicles (the Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle credit, which applies to at least 200,000 units per auto manufacturer before it phases out). This allows for the potential of up to $12,500 in rebates and tax credits for an individual.

Many electric vehicle manufacturers are continuing to choose Hawai’i as an ideal location for many reasons, including:

• Consumers’ high level of enthusiasm to adopt electric transportation. Hawai’i has the largest number of reservations per capita in the country for the Nissan LEAF.
• Favorable electricity time-of-use EV charging rates from electric utility companies.
• Moderate climate, limited driving distances and a strong tourism industry are ideal for EV utilization.

“EV enthusiasts in Hawai’i have rewarded automakers for rolling out their new electric vehicles in the islands,” stated Dave Rolf, Executive Director of the Hawai’i Automobile Dealers Association. “The highest per capita U.S. market embrace of the Nissan LEAF was in Hawai’i this past year. The State’s addition of $150,000 in Hawai’i state tax rebates for consumers purchasing EVs will help keep the momentum on this important transition to renewable fuels.”

The EV Ready Program is funded by Federal stimulus funds administered by DBEDT. By April 2012, approximately 210 charging stations, at roughly 140 sites across all counties, will be installed as part of the EV Ready Grant Program. Some chargers will have the capacity to charge more than one vehicle at a time.

A listing of publically available EV charging stations in Hawai’i can be found on the Hawai’i Charging Station Database. This database is frequently updated as private and public organizations add charging stations across Hawai’i and as requests to post information are received. The database is available on DBEDT’s State Energy Office website at electricvehicle.hawaii….

The EV Ready Grant and Rebate Programs are part of the Transportation Energy Diversification Project, which is supported by funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). These funds are directed for use in the Hawai’i State Energy Program through the U.S. Department of Energy.

DBEDT’s Hawai’i Electric Vehicle EV Ready Program has also provided $2.6 million in grants for the systematic installation of electric vehicle chargers across the State; public education and outreach including an EV Ready Guidebook; introduction of EVs to rental car and county fleets; car-sharing services within the hospitality industry; and an online permitting system for charger installations at single-family residences on O’ahu.

The State of Hawai’i's economic enterprise is to pursue energy independence by building a clean energy economy and reaching 70 percent clean energy by 2030. The DBEDT State Energy Office’s mission is to act as a catalyst for efficiency measures, renewable energy resources, transportation initiatives, green jobs, and investments in Hawai’i's economy. For more information, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii, January 30- Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have risen 1.8 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.07/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 4.5 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.39/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 33.4 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 9.4 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 13.5 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 30.4 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Late last week we saw wholesale gasoline prices rise dramatically on some refinery issues, which leads me to believe that retail gasoline prices will rise in response,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “We continue to also watch how Iran responds to EU sanctions- there are some concerns that they may cut oil to the European region before the sanctions are to take effect to cause these countries hardship when they can’t find new sources of oil quickly enough. That in itself could draw crude oil prices higher quickly at a moments notice,” DeHaan said.

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

Dear Matson Customer:

As a result of rising bunker fuel prices and other energy related costs, Matson announced today that it is raising its fuel surcharge by five percentage points, from 40.5% to 45.5%, for its Hawaii service, effective February 26, 2012. The adjustment follows three consecutive decreases in August through October 2011, which totaled seven percentage points in a six week period.

“While we were encouraged by the moderation of bunker fuel prices in the second half of 2011, that trend has been reversed in recent months,” said Dave Hoppes, senior vice president, ocean services. “Since announcing our last fuel surcharge reduction, bunker fuel prices have risen over 16 percent. Matson recognizes that energy costs are a major concern for all businesses, as well as consumers. Unfortunately, transportation companies are especially hard hit, with fuel consumption an unavoidable and significant component of operating costs. As with all increases, Matson gives our customers 30 days advance notice prior to implementation. We will continue to monitor fuel prices and adjust the surcharge accordingly.”

If you have any questions, please contact your local account executive or our Customer Support Center. Thank you for shipping with Matson.

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii Energy, the energy efficiency and conservation program, announces it has begun mailing Home Energy Reports to approximately 62,000 residential electric utility customers on Hawaii Island, Lanai, Maui and Molokai.

The reports are a new, innovative tool that will provide randomly selected households with information designed to help them improve the energy efficiency of their homes and save on monthly electricity bills.

The selected households will receive four reports through June 2012.

“This initiative is part of our ongoing effort to encourage energy conservation and efficiency,” said Ray Starling, Hawaii Energy Program Manager. “Customers that receive Home Energy Reports will be empowered to take actions that help them save energy and money.”

In addition to presenting household energy use and trends, each Home Energy Report will rank a household’s energy use with 99 anonymous nearby homes of a similar size and construction type. Households will be ranked from “1” to “100” with “1” using the least amount of energy and “100” using the most amount of energy.

A ranking of “100” will mean that they have a large potential to save money, whereas a ranking of “1” will mean they can help others by sharing what they do to save electricity.

The reports will suggest tips to help households save energy and money. For those who want to save even more money, Hawaii Energy offers an online feature where households can refine their home profiles, explore other energy-saving tips and develop energy savings plans.

This upcoming initiative is an expansion of a pilot that began in the Ewa Plain area on Oahu in May 2011, which will run through April 2012. The nearly 15,000 households participating in the pilot have already saved over 750,000 kWh through October 2011.

This is equal to a savings of $245,625 in their electricity bills (based on the effective residential electricity rate of 32.75 cents per kWh on Oahu for October 2011).

“Evidence shows that one of the key ways to reduce energy use is to provide homes with information about their usage and offer suggestions on what they can do to save,” said Larry Newman with Hawaii Energy. “Based on the success of the Ewa Plain Home Energy Reports pilot and similar projects across the country, we expect the expanded initiative to generate significant savings for those on Hawaii Island, Lanai, Maui and Molokai.”

During the next 12 months, it is estimated the approximately 62,000 households in the expanded initiative could save more than 3.3 million kWh or the equivalent of more than $1.3 million in electricity costs (based on an assumed average of 40 cents per kWh for residents of Hawaii Island, Lanai, Maui and Molokai).

— Find out more:
www.HawaiiEnergy.com

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii, January 23- Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have risen 0.9 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.05/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 0.6 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.34/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 38.8 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 4.4 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 11.8 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 25.3 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“We saw oil prices fall gently late last week as tensions with Iran seemingly have cooled somewhat,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “I’m certainly hopeful that the recent easing in tensions between Iran and the West continues in coming months, but there are certainly no guarantees and few expectations of such. Having said that, I expect gasoline prices to move very little in the next week, and in some areas of the U.S. gasoline prices may fall this week,” DeHaan said.

About HawaiiGasPrices.com

GasBuddy operates HawaiiGasPrices.com and over 250 similar websites that track gasoline prices at over 140,000 gasoline stations in the United States and Canada. In addition, GasBuddy offers a free smartphone app which has been downloaded over 20 million times to help motorists find gasoline prices in their area.

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii, January 16- Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have risen 5.9 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.04/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 1.1 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.34/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 37.2 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 4.2 cents per gallon higher than a month ago. The national average has increased 10.3 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 27.2 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Gasoline prices have slowed their rise in the last week as oil prices have temporarily stabilized,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “I’m sure this leveling off in retail price won’t last terribly long as tension mounts with Iran. I still expect 2012 to be a nasty year for the typical motorist, which is what our recently released 2012 gasoline price outlook also states,” DeHaan said.

GasBuddy’s 2012 gasoline price outlook may be accessed by visiting the following URL:

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

SAN ANTONIO, TX – January 10, 2012 – Tesoro Corporation (NYSE: TSO) today announced its plan to sell its Hawaii operations, including the 94 thousand barrel per day (mbpd) Kapolei refinery, operations at 32 retail stations and all associated logistical assets.

“Following a comprehensive analysis, we’ve determined that our business in Hawaii does not align with our strategic focus on the Mid-Continent and West Coast, and can provide greater value for a company that will invest in the business and employees,” said Greg Goff, president and CEO of Tesoro. “While the Hawaii business is no longer in line with our vision for Tesoro’s future, there is no question that it offers value for the right investor.”

The Kapolei refinery enjoys a favorable geographic position, excellent logistical infrastructure and an advantaged configuration that make it an attractive business for interested buyers. The refinery yield is distillate-focused and is complementary to the on-island demand for utility, jet and military fuels. The facility has the necessary logistics to support product movements to and from the U.S. West Coast or Pacific Rim markets, and is well positioned for participation in existing State of Hawaii and U.S. Department of Defense renewable fuels projects.

This is a fully integrated business which includes:

• Advantaged hydrocracking refinery
• Network of retail stations
• Deep draft single point mooring facility for crude and product movements
• Proprietary pipelines with connections to crucial business hubs such as Honolulu International Airport, the military fuel depot and Barbers Point inter island barge harbor
• Terminal access and barge operations to supply the major outlying islands

Tesoro Hawaii indicated its operations are focused on continuing to meet all its business commitments during the marketing and sales process.

Tesoro Hawaii anticipates completing the sale no sooner than the second half of 2012, subject to regulatory and other approvals.

Governor Neil Abercrombie’s statement on the Tesoro announcement

Honolulu – Tesoro Corporation today announced its plan to sell its Hawai’i operations no sooner than the second half of 2012. Governor Neil Abercrombie released the following statement regarding the announcement:

“In recent years, I have indicated that refineries in Hawai’i would likely experience changes given the circumstances in the global market. Today I spoke with Tesoro President and CEO Gregory Goff who informed me that the company will sell its Hawai’i refinery in the upcoming months.”

“We will work with Tesoro and all key players, including the Pacific Command and the Congressional Delegation, in power and fuel production and distribution to ensure continuity of resources is provided during and after this sale.”

“Mr. Goff has assured me that the company is willing to consider use of its facilities for production of alternative energies and I am committed to working towards this goal.

“In the meantime, we must remind ourselves that the move towards alternative or renewable energies is essential to Hawai’i’s survival. Although my administration is committed to taking action in this direction, there must be an equal commitment by everyone – government, business, community, family, and individuals – to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.”

MEDIA RELEASE

Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have risen 2.5 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.04/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 7.9 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.34/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 35.0 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 1.6 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has increased 4.7 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 27.0 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Gas prices are rising across much of the nation as Iran has continued to threaten closing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway for global oil shipments,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “Think back to the days following the start of the crisis in Libya- an event that also rattled energy markets- we’re seeing similar emotions play out even though there hasn’t yet been a disruption to supply. I would blame emotion for the recent uptick in gasoline prices, nothing else,” DeHaan said.

About HawaiiGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 250 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including HawaiiGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine’s 50 best websites and to PC World’s 100 most useful websites of 2008.

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

(Hilo, Hawaii) Hawaii Electric Light Company (HELCO) will soon take steps to expand geothermal energy on Hawaii Island with a request to the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to open a docket for a Geothermal Request for Proposals (RFP) in 2012.

At the same time, HELCO will undertake technical studies on the integration of additional geothermal resources on the Big Island grid. These include the need for more transmission lines if the geothermal power is all from the east side of the island and the potential for placing into standby one or more fossil fuel units when the geothermal power is operational.

HELCO will seek geothermal technologies that provide firm, fully dispatchable capability, that is, the ability for the utility to schedule and control the output power from the geothermal plant. This will help maintain reliability and at the same time help to manage intermittent resources such as wind and solar photovoltaic power. HELCO hopes to add up to 50 megawatts (MW) more of geothermal power if the cost is lower for customers. The amount added must also operationally blend with other power resources, including renewable energy from other sources such as wind, solar, biomass and hydro.

In June 2011, HELCO issued a Request for Information (RFI) to determine the best way to pursue geothermal development on Hawaii Island. HELCO sought input from stakeholders including potential geothermal developers, interested landowners and others on next steps that take into account Hawaii’s renewable energy goals and clean energy policy in keeping with the state’s unique community, cultural, historical, and environmental context. The company received 20 responses to the request for information.

“This response was a welcome showing of serious interest as we work toward adding more geothermal energy on Hawaii Island,” said Jay Ignacio, HELCO president. “After reviewing the responses and discussions with respondents, we now plan to move forward to add more geothermal energy to our already considerable portfolio of renewable energy resources.”

More than 30 percent of electricity on Hawaii Island is already generated from renewable resources, including hydro, wind, distributed solar photovoltaic, concentrating solar and geothermal. Puna Geothermal Venture, a subsidiary of Ormat Technologies, operates a 38 megawatt (MW) capacity geothermal plant in East Hawaii, including the addition of 8 MW recently approved by the Public Utilities Commission.

Photography by Baron Sekiya | Hawaii 24/7

The separation system, where steam and geothermal fluids are separated before being sent to the turbines to create electricity at Puna Geothermal Venture.

The Geothermal Working Group presented their final draft of the Geothermal Working Group Report Wednesday (Jan 4) at Hawaii County Mayor Billy Kenoi’s office.

The report, sponsored by the County of Hawaii, evaluated the use of geothermal energy as a primary source of electricity for the Big Island. The report includes an analysis of technical data and expert testimony providing convincing rationale to develop local renewable energy plants and transition away from the county’s dependence on petroleum-fueled generators for baseload electricity. The report, which is currently being circulated within Hawaii’s State Legislation and was developed as research to help support Hawaii’s Clean Energy Initiative goals.

Geothermal Working Group Co-Chairs Wally Ishibashi and Richard Ha discussed the groups findings.

The Geothermal Working Group’s principal findings:

• Geothermal is a renewable resource indigenous to the island of Hawaii that is dissociated from the price volatility of petroleum fuels.
• Geothermal can be a key component in a diversified energy portfolio for Hawaii County, both for the electrical grid and for transportation.
• In Hawaii, geothermal is a firm-energy resource at lower cost than fossil fuel.
• Developing multiple geothermal plants is the most prudent approach.
• Geothermal has the potential to supply baseload electricity; long term reliability and the ability to supply grid management services (currently supplied by conventional fossil-fueled power plants) must be demonstrated in order to consider geothermal as the primary energy resource.
• With geothermal power plants, agricultural fertilizers, hydrogen, oxygen, and business-enterprise power can be produced for off-peak rates during the hours of curtailed electrical demand.

For a copy of the Geothermal Energy Working Group – Final Report go to www.hawaiicounty.gov/r…

MEDIA RELEASE

The U.S. average price of gasoline today, $3.26/g, has declined significantly in recent months but still remains 21.3 cents per gallon higher than the U.S. average price recorded last year at this time.

“As 2011 has come to a close, that’s cause for concern,” says Gregg Laskoski, Senior Petroleum Analyst for GasBuddy.com. “Why? For the past seven years, the average price movement from the beginning of the year to the peak price posted during the year has been $0.93 cents per gallon, and as high as $1.31/gallon.”

“Last year was actually a good snapshot of what we’ve seen for the past seven years. 2010 ended with the national average at $3.05 and we saw the annual spring 2011 climb push the national average 91 cents higher to its peak level as early as May 11 when it reached $3.96 per gallon,” Laskoski said.

Hawaii average “start price” to peak retail gasoline prices:

2007:
Start Price: $2.83/g on 1/1/2007
Peak Price: $3.45/g on 12/18/2007
Difference: 62.2 cents per gallon

2008:
Start Price: $3.36/g on 1/1/2008
Peak Price: $4.46/g on 7/23/2008
Difference: 110.4 cents per gallon

2009:
Start Price: $2.30/g on 1/1/2009
Peak Price: $3.43/g on 12/26/2009
Difference: 112.8 cents per gallon

2010:
Start Price: $3.30/g on 1/1/2010
Peak Price: $3.67/g on 12/29/2010
Difference: 37.5 cents per gallon

2011:
Start Price: $3.65/g on 1/1/2011
Peak Price: $4.57/g on 5/4/2011
Difference: 91.4 cents per gallon

“In three of the last seven years, the spread between the yearly starting price and the peak exceeded $1 per gallon and only once in the past seven years was the spread below .82 cents per gallon. And, while we typically anticipate “peak” prices to occur in the midst of the summer driving season, sometimes the peak can even come after summer has concluded, as was the case nationally during 2006 and 2009. While past performance is no indication of future prices, if the national average doesn’t move closer toward or under $3 per gallon by the year’s end, we could be paying over $4/gal next spring,” said Patrick DeHaan, another Petroleum Analyst with GasBuddy.

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii, January 2- Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have fallen 6.3 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $3.98/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 2.4 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.25/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 29.7 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 11.7 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 4.1 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 20.9 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Average gasoline prices are moving up as we enter the New Year, a trend that has held since 2008,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “The biggest problem with that trend holding true this year is that we’re starting 2012 about 20-cents per gallon higher than 2011, breaking yet another high price record and setting up an ugly year for motorists,” DeHaan said.

GasBuddy analysts will also be releasing their 2012 projections in the next two weeks to the media and various organizations, and early indications show this year may see the highest ever recorded prices at the pump, with real potentials for some areas to see close to $5/gal gasoline if conflict arises in Iran over several key issues.

About HawaiiGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 250 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including HawaiiGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine’s 50 best websites and to PC World’s 100 most useful websites of 2008.

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii, December 26- Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have fallen 0.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.02/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has increased 0.8 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.23/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 38.2 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 11.3 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 8.9 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 21.3 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

About HawaiiGasPrices.com

GasBuddy.com operates over 250 live gasoline price-tracking websites, including HawaiiGasPrices.com. GasBuddy.com was named one of Time magazine’s 50 best websites and to PC World’s 100 most useful websites of 2008.

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

Hawaii, December 19- Average retail gasoline prices in Hawaii have fallen 3.4 cents per gallon in the past week, averaging $4.03/g yesterday. This compares with the national average that has fallen 4.3 cents per gallon in the last week to $3.23/g, according to gasoline price website HawaiiGasPrices.com

Including the change in gas prices in Hawaii during the past week, prices yesterday were 39.6 cents per gallon higher than the same day one year ago and are 8.8 cents per gallon lower than a month ago. The national average has decreased 13.4 cents per gallon during the last month and stands 26.4 cents per gallon higher than this day one year ago.

“Gas prices across much of the nation continue their downward move, bringing the national average for a gallon down to its lowest level since late February,” said GasBuddy.com Senior Petroleum Analyst Patrick DeHaan. “While some motorists are thinking these falling gasoline prices are nice, I’ll unpleasantly remind them that gasoline prices will still set record highs this Christmas across much of America- motorists have never seen average prices this high on Christmas. As prices typically reach a low point during early winter, this sets up a troubling start to 2012 in terms of gasoline prices. Summer gasoline prices typically are 80-120 cents per gallon higher than where prices stand around Christmas,” DeHaan said.

For Big Island gas prices and trends visit — www.hawaii247.com/gas

MEDIA RELEASE

The Gas Company is now producing renewable natural gas for Hawaii. The Gas Company is transforming non-food-grade oils and fats into clean, reliable gas and biofuels at its renewable natural gas pilot plant in West Oahu.

The renewable natural gas plant is capable of processing up to 1 million gallons of feedstock per year, and it is designed to allow for expansion to accommodate increasing demand and feedstock supply availability.

The facility was designed in association with Primoris Renewables, a leading innovator in renewable energy technology, and is located on the premises of TGC’s synthetic natural gas (SNG) manufacturing plant in Oahu’s Campbell Industrial Park.

The Hawaii Renewable Energy Development Venture, which is funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, awarded a $1 million grant to The Gas Company to support the RNG plant demonstration. No tax credit or further taxpayer support is required for the project.

”The production of renewable natural gas is a major milestone that will allow us to provide sustainable energy from local agricultural products that were previously discarded or shipped out of state,” said TGC’s president and CEO, Jeffrey Kissel.

The Gas Company is working with companies in Hawaii to purchase locally produced, sustainable non-food-grade oils and fats for the production of renewable natural gas.

Gov. Neil Abercrombie participated in Thursday’s dedication of the RNG plant.

“Hawaii’s clean energy industry is becoming a test bed for clean technologies because of our rich portfolio of renewable energy sources and strong partnerships,” he said. “Our state government has put in place the most aggressive clean energy policy in the nation, and The Gas Company’s renewable natural gas pilot plant is a prime example of how Hawaii is investing in itself rather than exporting its dollars elsewhere.”

Because Hawaii relies on imported petroleum for approximately 90 percent of its energy – more than twice as much as any other state – Hawaii’s state government launched the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative in 2008, calling for 70 percent clean energy by 2030. The Gas Company is working toward producing half of its gas from renewable and sustainable sources.

The new facility transforms fats and oils in a process that uses the heat from its existing gas production facilities, surplus hydrogen and steam to produce renewable natural gas and biofuels.

The renewable natural gas and biofuels that the RNG pilot plant produces will be incorporated into The Gas Company’s existing manufacturing and distribution operations. Renewable natural gas will displace gas produced from petroleum and will be distributed through The Gas Company’s 1,100-mile Oahu pipeline network.

The cost for renewable natural gas should be the same as or less than gas produced from current sources, without relying on taxpayer subsidy.

The Gas Company, LLC, (TGC) provides clean, reliable and efficient gas energy to residential, business and government customers in every community across Hawaii’s six major islands — Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Kauai, Molokai and Lanai. Next to the sun itself, gas is the most efficient way to heat water, cook food and dry clothes.

TGC makes synthetic natural gas (SNG) at the only facility of its kind in the United States and supplies it through a 1,100-mile pipeline network to nearly 30,000 commercial and residential utility customers on Oahu. TGC also supplies tank and bottled propane gas to more than 40,000 customers statewide.

The Gas Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of Macquarie Infrastructure Company. MIC owns, operates and invests in a diversified group of infrastructure businesses that provide basic services to customers across the United States.

— Find out more:
www.hawaiigas.com
www.macquarie.com/mic