Video by David Corrigan
A planned biomass facility in Pepeekeo will have to face off with concerned residents in a contested case hearing before their project can meet with county approval.
The Windward Planning Commission postponed their vote on an application to amend the use permit allowing Hu Honua BioEnergy LLC to convert the defunct Pepeekeo Power Plant into a working alternative energy facility, after it voted to grant standing to all 21 groups and individuals opposing the project.
On Friday, the Aupuni Center conference room in Hilo was packed with people both for and against the power plant. Before the hearing, several supporters of the project waved signs outside along Kilauea Avenue, wearing bright green Hu Honua T-shirts.
In this video, Hu Honua president Rick McQuain explains the goals of the project, while footage from the hearing shows the mixed opinion surrounding the project.
Big Island Video News will be presenting a series of point/counterpoint videos on some of the specific issues brought up during the hearing, like the impacts the new power plant may have on air quality, area water use, and Sugar Mill Road.
by Big Island Video News
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STORY SUMMARY
The Windward Planning Commission postponed their vote on amending the use permit for Hu Honua BioEnergy LLC, after it voted to grant standing to all 21 groups and individuals opposing the project.