HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0354.024 2024-2026P / CRC C,
W414.55q
From:
Faith Ramos
Sent:
Sunday, July 6, 2025 10:05 PM
To:
Council Testimony
_o
e7
Subject:
Waiohinu Geothermal Plant
Why I oppose,
ram--'
High Upfront Costs:
Building geothermal power plants requires significant upfront investment, potentially making it
expensive to consumers. Who is the power plant for is a great question as well, not a lot of Ka'u residents
are monetarily able to convert their way of living to accommodate geothermal energy.
Potential Environmental Impacts:
While low, geothermal plants can release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide,
and may also affect groundwater and surface stability. Blockage and depletion of natural resources
could become critical as most land is agricultural in Ka'u. With very little modern convenience such as
grocery stores impeding on the land is highly detrimental to everyone's way of life. Not to mention the
risk of destroying protected species habitats both flora and fauna.
Risk of Earthquakes:
Geothermal energy extraction can potentially trigger minor earthquak6s, particularly in regions with
existing seismic activity. Lots of building in the area already experience high levels of earthquakes and
have sustained damage in the past. It's unwise to increase the risk.
Resource Depletion:
In some cases, geothermal reservoirs can be depleted if not properly managed, requiring re -injection of
fluids
Limited Scalability:
Geothermal energy is not as easily scalable as some other energy sources. Land is vast, however its use
in the region is for agriculture! Developing a large power plant would restrict land and natural resources.
Water Usage:
Some geothermal power plants require significant amounts of water for cooling or other processes.
Waiohinu and residents of all of Ka'u depend on water for their daily life. Redirecting or massive use of
water in the area could impact farmers and citizens
Comm.
Ref. To:
Ref. Date i ' uL - 2025
Noise and Visual Impact:
While minimal, geothermal plants can have some noise and visual impact on the surrounding
environment. Ka'u is know for rolling hills and unimpeded landscape. Country as some say, let's keep it
that way not just for us humans but for the betterment of the natural ecosystem there.
Ka'u and Waiohinu do not need nor want a geothermal power plant. The risk versus reward is very
unbalanced. It doesn't serve the people and it definitely doesn't serve the land. Let the people of Ka'u
steward their land and lives.
Thankyou,
Faith Ramos
P.O. Box 678, Naalehu, HI
96772
(808)494-7873
Faith ramos0908Ca)gmail.com