COM 0492.006 1996-1998 - Laserfiche WebLink

Home

The Honorable James Arakaki December 1, 1997 Page: 2 The G12P, in condition 24, established noise guidelines for PGV's operations "[u]ntil such time as noise regulations are adopted by the State or County." In general, condition 24 had permitted noise levels of 55 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. These guidelines were superseded in 1996 when the State Department of Health promulgated statewide Community Noise Control ("CNC") standazds. The CNC set 70 dBA as the maximum permissible noise level, both daytime and nighttime, for the zoning district (Agricultural district) in which PGV's operations are located. Although the CNC allows noise levels of 70 dBA, PGV has generally maintained average noise emissions at or below 55 dBA during the day and 45 dBA at night. We have utilized sound experts to recommend noise mitigation measures in an effort to reduce noise to our neighbors. Mitigation measures include the use of sound suppression blankets, increased landscaping and implementation of a minimum nighttime work schedule to reduce noise emissions after sunset. PGV has been in operation for more than four and a half years. During this period, PGV has continually complied with County and State noise regulations. PGV's operations currently supply almost a quarter of the electricity needs of the Big Island. In doing so, we have displaced about 1.9 million barrels of oil from being burned to produce electricity, avoided 19 shiploads of oil from entering Hilo hazbor, and contributed to reducing global warming. We look forward to continuing to operate in a responsible manner, in the best interest of all the people on the Big Island. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to respond to the issues raised concerning noise. Please call if you would like to visit PGV's power plant. Very truly yours, G(l. ~ A"t- J ck A. Dean Vice President and General Manager t:\jad\corres.out\county\971201.wpd