Auiki Substation

On August 2, 2018, we filed an application in Docket No. 2018-0185 requesting that the Public Utilities Commission: (1) approve the commitment of approximately $15.2 million in funds for the construction and installation of project Item Y00291, the Auiki Substation, line extensions and related equipment; (2) determine that the Project’s 46 kilovolt (“kV”) transmission line extensions be constructed as proposed above and below the surface of the ground; and (3) determine that a public hearing is not required under Section 269-27.5 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes.

The Auiki Substation Project is needed to address reliability and safety risks associated with forecasted overload conditions on Hawaiian Electric’s distribution system in the Kalihi Kai/Palama area of Oahu. The Company’s existing Kalihi Kai/Palama area distribution system contains insufficient capacity to serve near-term electrical loads, which are expected to increase significantly over the next three years. Current estimates indicate that by 2021, these loads will have increased by over 12 megavolt-amperes (“MVA”), resulting in both emergency and normal circuit overload conditions.

These overload conditions are projected to occur as a result of new loads arising in connection with the State of Hawaii's Honolulu Harbor Kapalama Container Terminal Development project requiring 9.3 MVA of firm additional load in the 2021 timeframe, and 3.1 MVA of demand associated with Honolulu Authority for Rapid Transit project traction power systems and associated infrastructure in 2020. An additional 5.0 MVA of load is also anticipated in the 2026 timeframe.

The proposed Auiki Substation Project consists of the Auiki Substation and associated transformers, transmission and distribution 46 kV and 11.5 kV circuits, SCADA and telecommunications facilities, and related land rights required for the Project. Upon its planned January 2021 in-service date, the Project will alleviate normal overload conditions, provide backup reliability and minimize distribution circuit installation costs, while providing added capacity to serve forecasted near-term projected loads.

A copy of Hawaiian Electric's application is available here in PDF format. It is also available for review through the Commission's electronic Document Management System, accessible on-line at the following web address: https://hpuc.my.site.com/cdms/s/search Docket Quick Link: 2018-0185. In addition, a copy of the application is available for review at Hawaiian Electric's Regulatory Affairs Office 220 South King Street, Suite 1301.

Public comments may be sent by email to public.comment@hawaiianelectric.com. Please include "Auiki Substation" in the subject of your email.