HomeMy WebLinkAboutCOM 0133.000 1998-2000 Mfv Os M1
BOBBY JEAN LEITHEAD-TODD i-. big%,<.\ Phone: (808) 961-8261
Councilmembn 1 FAX: (808) 9693291
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COUNTY COUNCIL
County of Hawaii
Hawaii County Building
25 Aupuni Street
Hila, Hawaii 96720 gill Nos . :35/36
Mazch 1Q 1999 ( )
Comm. No(s). :133
Al Lono Lyman, Sr.
Project Manager
CH2M HILL INC.
1585 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
Subject: State Land Use Boundazy Amendment Application (SLU 98-9)
Request: Agricultural to Urban
Change of Zone Application (REZ 98-26)
Request: A-20a to MG-l0a
Applicant: Hawaii Electric Light Co., Inc.
Tax Map Key: 1-6-3:93
This is a follow up to the telephone call from my staff notifying you that the above will
be considered by the Council's Committee on Planning on Mazch 16, 1999, at 2:30 p.m.
in the Councilroom, Room 201, Hawaii County Building, 25 Aupuni Street, in Hilo.
This is in accordance with the Council's Rules of Procedures that matters related to
planning are referred to our committee for review and recommendation to the Council.
Please be advised that this is just the initial consideration by the Council on your
application. After the Planning Committee makes a recommendation for approval or
disapproval of your request, a report will be made to the full Council, where further
deliberation will take place. A total of at least three meetings, including the Committee
and two full Council meetings, must transpire should and approval recommendation be
made.
Your presence at the meetings is requested in order to have any questions on your
application addressed. You will be notified by the Council's staff after the Planning
Comm. Na ~ 3 3
File No. ZN(n /?r~
M.B. No.
rnt„ . IMR ~ 6 _1999
q3~-7 ~ 3S exp. 21 ~ _ _ _
Al Lono Lyman, Sr.
Mazch 10, 1999
Page 2
Committee makes a recommendation to full Council to let you know when your
application will be heazd by the full Council.
Should you have any questions as far as placement of your request on the Planning
Committee agenda, please contact Glynis or Evelyn at 961-8245.
~~~~o~~'~tlG ~ ~I~
Bobby Jean Leithead-Todd, Chair
Committee on Planning
Attachment (PC Agenda)
i~ a
"r'~'!y William G. Davis
Marwging Director
Stephen K. Yamashiro
Mayor - Henry Cho
, ti~~` Deputy Managing Director
A~oi x~
~IIlY2C~~1 l~~ ~2I~1tMit
25 Aupuni Street, Room 215 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4252 • (808) 961-8211 Fax (808) 961-6553
KONA: 75-5706 Kuakini Highway, Suite 103 Kailas-Kona, Hawaii 96740
(808)329-5226 Fax (808)326-5663
January 29, 1999
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni Street -
Hilo, HI 96720
Dear Chairman Arakaki and Members:
State Land Use Boundary Amendment Application (SLU 98-8)
Applicant: Kailash Chopra
Request: Agricultural to Urban
Tax Map Key: 1-7-3:17
State Land Use Boundary Amendment Application (SLU 98-9)
Request: Agricultural to Urban
Change of Zone Application (REZ 98-26)
J Request: A-20a to MG-l0a
Applicant: Hawaii Electric Light Co., Inc.
Tax M~1 i~e~• 1-6-3.93
As required by Chapter 4, Sec. 5-4.3(C), Hawaii County Charter, transmitted herewith for the
County Council's consideration and action aze the Planning Commission's letters and
enclosures regazding the above-referenced applications.
Sincerely,
i
`l~~j~l~~~
ephen K. Yamashiro
Mayor
012299.MAY
Enclosures
cc: Planning Department Comm. No.
$i115 35~~6 Fi]eNo. ~NwG"~P~-
Puf. 10:
FEB 0 3 1999
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Stephen K. Yamashiro
Mayor
l~uuu#~r oaf ~tt£utti~
PLANNING COMMISSION
25 Aopuni Shat, Room I09 • EGb, Hxwxil %720.4252
(808) %1.8288 Fxx (SOS) %1-%I S
~.I_IIN 2 , 9 1999
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, HI 96720
Deaz Chairman Arakaki and Members:
State Land Use Boundary Amendment Application (SLU 98-9)
Request: Agricultural to Urban
Change of Zone Application (REZ 98-26)
Request: A-20a to MG-IOa
Applicant: Hawaii Electric Light Co., Inc.
Tax Map Key• 1-6-3.93
The Planning Commission, after a duly held public hearing on January 22, 1999, voted to
recommend for your approval the proposed legislative bills to change the State Land Use
district from an Agricultural to Urban District and the district classification from Agricultural
(A-20a) to General Industrial (MG-l0a) for approximately 10.5 t acres of land. The property
is located approximately one mile east of the Keaau Town Center at the end of Milo Street, at
the vicinity of the former Puna Sugar Company Mill site at Keaau, Puna, Hawaii.
The Commission concurs with the following findings as recommended by the Planning
Director:
State Land Use Boundary Amendment
The approval of the reclassification from the State Land Use Agricultural to the
Urban District will not be violative of Section 205-2, Chapter ZOS, Hawaii Revised
Statutes, nor will the reclassification actions be inconsistent with the Hawaii Land Use
Commission Rules, the Hawaii State Plan and the County Generai Plan.
The Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc. (HELCO) is requesting to redesignate
the subject property from Agricultural to Urban, to legitimize the existing Puna
Generating Station. This power plant was originally approved through a Special Permit
in 1988 and existed as an accessory use to Puna Sugar Mill operations prior to their
closing. According to the Hawaii Land Use Commission Rules, one of the standards
for considering an azea for urban reclassification is that "In determining urban growth
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 2
for the next ten yeazs, or in amending the boundary, land contiguous with existing
urban azeas shall be given more consideration than non-contiguous land, and
pazticularly when indicated for future urban use on state or county general plans." The
project site conforms to this standard as it is designated Industrial on the County
General Plan and has been in industrial-related uses for the past 20 yeazs, The
property is also situated within the vicinity of existing urban designated lands
surrounding Keaau Town. These urban lands include the existing residential
neighborhood along and to the south of Milo Street and along the Old Volcano Road
(west of the subject property), which are primarily in residential uses. In addition, a
section of the adjacent pazcel to the southwest, TMK: 1-6-03:portion of 5 (James
McCully} recently secured a State Land Use Boundary Amendment from Agricultural
to Urban and a Change of Zone from ML-20a to MCX-20a. Furthermore, back in July
1994, the State Land Use Commission approved a petition filed by the Office of State
Planning for boundazy amendment from Agricultural to Urban District for
approximately 660 acres of lands surrounding Keaau Village, which are owned by
W. H. Shipman, Ltd. The objective of the redesignation was to establish an urban core
in the Puna District to service the growing population. One of the urban subareas is
located immediately southwest of the subject property.
The reclassification action would also achieve the following goals, objectives
and/or policies articulated in the Hawaii State Plan:
* A strong, viable economy, characterized by stability, diversity and
growth that enables the fulfillment of the needs and expectations of
Hawaii's present and future generations.
* Increased and diversified employment opportunities to achieve full
employment, increased income and job choice, and improved living
standards for Hawaii's people.
* Expand existing markets and penetrate new markets for Hawaii's
products and services.
* Stimulate the development and expansion of economic activities which
will benefit areas with substantial or expected employment problems.
The Urban classification would be consistent with the Economic, Land Use and
Industrial goals and policies of the Hawaii County General Plan by creating industrial
uses. The goals, policies, standards and courses of action state the following:
Economic Element
* Provide residents with opportunities to improve their quality of life.
* Economic development and improvement shall be in balance with the physical
and social environments of the island of Hawaii.
* The County of Hawaii shall strive for diversity and stability in its economic
system.
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 3
* The County shall provide an economic environment which allows new,
expanded, or improved economic opportunities that aze compatible with the
County's natural and social environment.
* The County of Hawaii shall strive for an economic climate which provides its
residents an opportunity for choice of occupation.
Land Use Element
* Designate and allocate land uses in appropriate proportions and mix and in
keeping with the social, cultural and physical environments of the County.
* Zone urban- and rural-types of uses in azeas with ease of access to community
services and employment centers and with adequate public utilities and
facilities.
* Allocate appropriate requested zoning in accordance with the existing or
projected needs of neighborhood, community, region and County.
* The County shall encourage the development and maintenance of communities
meeting the needs of its residents in balance with the physical and social
environment.
* Zoning request shall be reviewed with respect to General Plan designation,
district goals, regional plans, State Land Use District, compatibility with
adjacent zoned uses, availability of public services and utilities, access and
public need.
Industrial Element
* Designate and allocate industrial areas in appropriate proportions and in keeping
with the social, cultural and physical environments of the County.
* Promote and encourage the rehabilitation of industrial areas which are serviced
by basic community facilities and utilities.
* It shall be the policy of the County to achieve a broader diversification of local
industries by providing opportunities for new industries and strengthening
existing industries.
* Through its zoning powers, the County shall locate industrial azeas convenient
to transportation facilities, and provide a vaziety of industrial zoned districts and
lot sizes, depending on the needs of the industries and the communities.
* Industrial development shall be located in azeas adequately served by
transportation, utilities and other amenities. Redeveloping or newly developing
areas shall be developed in concert with programmed public and privately
funded infrastructure to meet the expected needs.
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 4
* Topography of industrial land shall be reasonably level.
* Industrial development shall be conveniently located to its labor resource.
* Buffer zones shall be established between industrial and adjacent noncompatible
uses of land.
* The County shalt identify sites suitable for future industrial activities
In addition, the Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG) Map component
of the General Plan represents the document's goals, policies, standards and courses of
action to guide the coordinated growth and development of the County. This map
reflects a graphic depiction of the spatial relationships among various land uses and the
expressed policy statements of the document itself. It also establishes the basic land
use pattern for azeas within the County and is therefore an important consideration.
This reclassification action also conforms to the LUPAG Map which designates the
azea for Industrial. The Industrial designation was originally imposed for the Puna
Sugar Mill operation. This designation allows for uses such as manufacturing and
processing, wholesaling, large storage and transportation facilities and light industrial
uses. The Puna Generating Plant, a power plant, would be included in these uses.
The Urban reclassification of the subject property would serve to justify the existing
industrial activities associated with the Puna Generating Station. The subject property
is a portion of the old Puna Sugar Mill site which was designated Industrial since 1971.
During the 1989 General Plan Comprehensive Review, this Industrial designation was
expanded by redesignating lands in the vicinity from Intensive Agricultural and
Orchards to Industrial. This area was considered for industrial expansion as a variety
of Industrial/Agricultural uses were established in the vicinity through the Special
Permit process. The County had determined that the industrial designation would
promote and encourage additional utilization of the area. Also in 1989, it was
observed that traffic patterns already indicated tremendous movement across the
Puna-South Hilo District boundary. Keaau is in close proximity to the City of Hilo and
has an excellent transportation link via the Volcano Highway-Kanoelehua Avenue. In
addition, Keaau provides a natural focal point provided by the highway system that
could result in the concentration of additional goods and services at Keaau. To
facilitate this growth, during the 1989 review, the lands on the eastern side of the
existing Keaau urban area were redesignated from Orchazds and Urban Expansion to
Low Density Urban. Likewise, the lands to the west and southwest side of Keaau
Town were redesignated from Orchards to Urban Expansion. As evident by the
County's action during the 1989 General Plan Comprehensive Review, there definitely
is a need for additional lands to accotnmodate present and future industrial activities for
the Puna District. The azea under consideration is consistent with the urban form of
Industrial as established for this section of the Puna District and as depicted on the
LUPAG Map.
The project site is concurrently being reclassified from an Agricultural (A-20a)
to General Industrial (MG-10) zoned district in order to conform and recognize the
Urban nature of the use. As such, the boundary amendment would allow for rezoning
of the property to allow for the industrial activities and uses that aze already existing
and permitted within an Urban district.
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 5
The subject property is located one mile from Keaau Town Center and in close
proximity to the residential neighborhoods. Therefore, the lands could be
chazacterized by "city-like" concentrations of people, structures, streets, urban level of
services and other related land uses. Surrounding properties consist of formerly
cultivated sugaz cane lands, small agricultural operations, vacant lands and residences.
New uses as approved through special permits and rezonings will include fazm
dwellings, mixed commercial-industrial uses, aschool/church and a greenhouse
business. To the northeast of the subject property is the existing AMFAC Tropical
Products tropical fruits packing facility and papaya puree processing facility. To the
east of the subject property is the existing AMFAC Tropical Products tropical fruit
packing and papaya puree processing facilities. Adjacent and southwest of the property
is the McCully property, TMK: 1-6-03:5, which recently secured a State Land Use
Boundazy Amendment from Agricultural to Urban and a Change of Zone from A-20a
to FA-3a (Ordinance No. 97-67) and MCX-20 (Ordinance 98-61). The FA-3a zoned
portion of TMK: 1-6-03:5 abuts the Puna Generating Station. Also, to the south along
Milo Street is the site of Greenhouse Specialists (SPP-931) and the existing Pacific
Floral Exchange business. Adjacent and to the east of Pacific Floral Exchange is the
proposed school site for Hawaii Christian Camping Association (SPP-925). It should
be pointed out, that when the special permit for the school/church was approved, the
Hawaii Christian Camping Association was aware of the Puna Generating Station.
They expressed no objections to being located in the same vicinity. A condition was
included m SPP 925 that the school relocate should the health and safety of the
school/church be a concern. Lands to the southwest of the subject property, along the
first 1,800± section of Milo Street, are lots approximately 13,000 squaze feet in size
which aze zoned RS-10. Existing uses along Milo Street aze mainly single-family
residential in nature. A few RS-15 zoned properties aze also located in the azea.
Along the intersection of Milo Street and the Old Volcano Road aze properties zoned
CV-10. Approximately 800 feet to the south at the Keaau-Pahoa/Old Volcano Road
intersection is the Keaau Town Center. Across Milo Street to the south is the site of
the proposed Greenhouse Specialists' operation and to the southeast is the existing
Pacific Floral Exchange business. Adjacent and to the east of Pacific Floral Exchange
is the proposed school site for Hawaii Christian Camping Association. Lands further
west and southwest aze primarily in residential uses. From a land use perspective, it is
amore feasible alternative to expand urban development within this particulaz azea of
Keaau. Furthermore, an Urban classification would complement the existing and
future industrial land activities of the surrounding properties. Therefore, the
urbanization of the subject property will not contribute toward scattered spot urban
development.
The urban classification also conforms to the standard that the development is
within reasonable proximity to centers of trading and employment and to basic services
such as schools, police and fire protection, transportation systems and water. The
project site is located approximately one mile from the urban retail/ employment of
Keaau Town Center. The Police, Fire and emergency medical services are also located
in Keaau town, less than a mile from the subject property. Keaau is centrally located at
the junction of two major highway systems in the Puna District, the Volcano
Highway-Kanoelehua Avenue and Keaau-Pahoa Highway. The principal access to the
proposed development would be provided from Keaau Road (TMK: 1-6-03: Portion of
73) and TMK: 1-6-03: Portion of 15, which are graveled roadway easements owned by
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 6
W.H. Shipman, Ltd. The Keaau By-Pass Road, presently under construction will be
located within the vicinity of these roads. Applicable roadway easement improvements
will be reviewed under the Change of Zone request. County water is available to the
subject property as well as three existing wells. All other utilities and services are
available to the subject property.
Based on the foregoing, the request conforms with the Land Use Commission
Rules which encourages urban developments in close proximity to existing
developments and to existing services and facilities.
The project area includes lands with no severe geological or topographical
problems which cannot be properly rectified or which would render the land unusable.
The subject property is relatively level with a slight grade. According to the Flood
Insurance Rate Map (FIRM), the project area is within Zone X, area determined to be
outside the 500-year flood plain. The project area is also located outside of any
tsunami inundation azea. Any new construction or improvements to the project area
must comply with Chapter 27 of the Counry Code relating to Flood Hazazd Control.
The subject property was formally cultivated in sugaz cane and therefore, no
endangered or threatened species of floral or fauna nor any archaeological sites are
anticipated to be found on the subject property. The State of Hawaii ALISH Map
classifies the property as Urban. The Land Use Study Bureau's Overall Master
Productivity Rating for the soils in the area is "C" or Fair. Thus, the reclassification
does meet with the standrsd which states that the lands included within the urban
district shall be those with satisfactory topography and drainage and reasonably
free from the danger of floods, tsunami and unstable soil conditions and other adverse
environmental effects."
Based on the above findings, the approval of the State Land Use Boundary
Amendment from Agricultural to Urban District complements the State Land Use
District Regulations and is supportive of the State of Hawaii Plan and the County
General Plan.
Therefore, the State Land Use Boundary Amendment is recommended to be
given a favorable consideration. Should the State Land Use Boundary Amendment be
approved, the existing Special Permit No. 686 for the power plant, will be voided.
Change of Zone
In order to consider an area for any type of zoning designation, the applicable
goals, policies and standards of the General Plan must be adequately addressed. It is
only through such a comprehensive policy analysis approach that evaluations and
decisions can be made to better time and stage developments to achieve growth
determined by the General Plan and reiated planning documents. The implications of
these evaluations and decisions must be also considered as they may have an impact on
similar areas in the County, but ultimately, on the future development of the whole
island.
The proposed rezoning would be consistent with the Economic, Land Use and
Industrial goals, policies, standazds and courses of action of the General Plan.
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 7
Economic Element
* Provide residents with opportunities to improve their quality of life.
* Economic development and improvement shall be in balance with the physical
and social environments of the island of Hawaii.
* The County of Hawaii shall strive for diversity and stability in its economic
system.
* The County shall provide an economic environment which allows new,
expanded, or improved economic opportunities that are compatible with the
County's natural and social environment.
* The County of Hawaii shall strive for an economic climate which provides its
residents an opportunity for choice of occupation.
Land Use Element
* Designate and allocate land uses in appropriate proportions and mix and in
keeping with the social, cultural and physical environments of the County.
* Zone urban- and rural-types of uses in azeas with ease of access to community
services and employment centers and with adequate public utilities and
facilities.
* Allocate appropriate requested zoning in accordance with the existing or
projected needs of neighborhood, community, region and County.
* The County shall encourage the development and maintenance of communities
meeting the needs of its residents in balance with the physical and social
environment.
* Zoning request shall be reviewed with respect to General Plan designation,
district goals, regional plans, State Land Use District, compatibility with
adjacent zoned uses, availability of public services and utilities, access and
public need.
Industrial Element
* Designate and allocate industrial azeas in appropriate proportions and in keeping
with the social, cultural and physical environments of the County.
* Promote and encourage the rehabilitation of industrial azeas which are serviced
by basic community facilities and utilities.
* It shall be the policy of the County to achieve a broader diversification of local
industries by providing opportunities for new industries and strengthening
existing industries.
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 8
* Through its zoning powers, the County shall locate industrial areas convenient
to transportation facilities, and provide a vaziety of industrial zoned districts and
lot sizes, depending on the needs of the industries and the communities.
* Industrial development shall be located in areas adequately served by
transportation, utilities and other amenities. Redeveloping or newly developing
areas shall be developed in concert with programmed public and privately
funded infrastructure to meet the expected needs.
* Topography of industrial land shall be reasonably level.
* Industrial development shall be conveniently located to its labor resource.
* Buffer zones shall be established between industrial and adjacent non compatible
uses of land.
* The County shall identify sites suitable for future industrial activities
The applicant's overall objective is to legitimize the existing use of the Puna
Generating Plant. The power plant operations originally were run by Puna Sugar
Company, Ltd. as a part of their sugar mill operations. However, when the mill
closed, HELCO took over the power plant operations and secured a Special Permit
(SPP 686) in order to continue the plant. The rezoning designation from A-20a to
MG-l0a would make the power plant a permitted use under the industrial zoning. No
immediate changes or expansion to operations aze planned through the yeaz 2017. The
generating capacity at the site may be increased after the year 2017.
The surrounding properties consist of a mixture of industrial type and
agricultural processing uses which were granted Special Permits. Surrounding
properties consist mainly of formerly cultivated sugar cane lands, vacant lands, small
agricultural operations and residences. To the northeast of the subject property is the
existing AMFAC Tropical Products tropical fruits packing facility and papaya puree
processing facility. To the east of the subject property is the existing AMFAC
Tropical Products tropical fruit packing and papaya puree processing facilities.
Adjacent and southwest of the property is the McCully property, TMK: 1-6-03:5,
which recently secured a State Land Use Boundary Amendment from Agricultural to
Urban and a Change of Zone from A-20a to FA-3a (Ordinance No. 97-67) and
MCX-20 (Ordinance 98-61). The FA-3a zoned portion of TMK: 1-6-03:5 abuts the
Puna Generating Station. Also, to the south along Milo Street is the site of Greenhouse
Specialists (SPP-931) and the existing Pacific Floral Exchange business. Adjacent and
to the east of Pacific Floral Exchange is the proposed school site for Hawaii Christian
Camping Association (SPP-925). It should be pointed out, that when the special permit
for the school/church was approved, the Hawaii Christian Camping Association was
aware of the Puna Generating Station. They expressed no objections to being located
in the same vicinity. A condition was included in SPP 925 that the school relocate
should the health and safety of the school/church be a concern. Lands to the southwest
of the subject property, along the first 1,8001 section of Milo Street, are lots
approximately 13,000 square feet in size which are zoned RS-10. Existing uses along
Milo Street are mainly single-family residential in nature. A few RS-15 zoned
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 9
properties aze also located in the area. Along the intersection of Milo Street and the
old Volcano Road are properties zoned CV-10. Approximately 800 feet to the south at
the Keaau-Pahoa/Old Volcano Road intersection is the Keaau Town Center. Across
Milo Street to the south is the site of the proposed Greenhouse Specialists' operation
and to the southeast is the existing Pacific Floral Exchange business. Adjacent and to
the east of Pacific Floral Exchange is the proposed school site for Hawaii Christian
Camping Association. Lands immediately adjacent to and west of the subject property
are vacant formerly sugar cane lands. However, lands further west and southwest are
primarily in residential uses.
Existing industrial zoned lands in the Puna District aze located off Highway 11
at the Shipman Industrial Park, approximately .7 miles from the subject property. The
County Council approved the General Industrial (MG-20) zone district effective
August 19, 1986, for approximately 488 t acres of land for the development of
Shipman Industrial Park. A portion of the Shipman Industrial Pazk has been
subdivided in increments between 1987 - 1991. There are presently a total of 88 lots
with average lot size ranging from one half acre to 3 acres. The existing uses in the
area include: heavy equipment construction baseyards, building supplies baseyazds,
paving construction baseyazds, distributor warehousing, supermarket warehousing,
industrial/manufacturing baseyazds and other uses. Allied Aggregates leases one of the
larger lots for its existing quarrying operation. For the East Hawaii area, industrial
zoned lands and activities are primazily located in the City of Hilo at the Hilo Harbor,
airport and Kanoelehua Industrial areas. Industrial expansion since 1970 has largely
occurred through the expansion and in-filling of these areas. The subject property has
been in industrial use.
The Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG) Map component of the
General Plan is a representation of the document's goals, policies, standards and
courses of action to guide the coordinated growth and development of the County. It
reflects a graphic depiction of the spatial relationships among various land uses and the
expressed policy statements of the document itself. The LUPAG Map establishes the
basic land use pattern for areas within the County. Therefore, changes and requests for
amendments to the LUPAG Map must be evaluated against applicable goals, policies
and standazds of the General Plan. The reclassification action also conforms to the
LUPAG Map which designates the area for Industrial Area. The Industrial Area
designation include uses such as manufacturing and processing, wholesaling, large
storage and transportation facilities and light industrial uses. The zoning
reclassification would be in keeping with industrial activities associated with the
Industrial designation and the existing industrial/agricultural uses in the area.
Since 1971, the area of the old Puna Sugar Mill has been designated as
Industrial Area. During the 1989 General Plan Comprehensive Review, the Industrial
Area designation was expanded by tedesignating lands in the vicinity from Intensive
Agricultural and Orchards to Industrial. This area was considered for industrial
expansion as a variety of Industrial uses have been established in the vicinity through
the Special Permit process. The County had determined that the industrial designation
would promote and encourage additional utilization of the area. Also in 1989, it was
observed that traffic patterns already indicated tremendous movement across the
Puna-South Hilo District boundary. Keaau is in close proximity to the City of Hilo and
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 10
has an excellent transportation link via the Volcano Highway-Kanoelehua Avenue. In
addition, Keaau provides a natural focal point provided by the highway system that
could result in the concentration of additional goods and services at Keaau. To
facilitate this growth, during the 1989 review, the lands on the eastern side of the
existing Keaau urban area were redesignated from Orchards and Urban Expansion to
Low Density Urban. Likewise, the lands to the west and southwest side of Keaau
Town were redesignated from Orchards to Urban Expansion. As evident by the
County's action during the 1989 General Plan Comprehensive Review, this
redesignation would be consistent with the present and future industrial activities for
the Puna District.
An amendment to the State Land Use Boundary Map from an Agricultural to
Urban District is being concurrently processed for the proposed industrial
development. Upon the adoption of this amendment, the proposed change of zone
request will be consistent with the proposed Urban District designation.
The project site is situated within close proximity to schools, commercial azeas,
employment centers and public safety services. The site is located within an azea
where there is existing agricultural activity and residences; and proposed residences,
businesses and a school. The project site is located approximately one mile from the
urban retail/employment of Keaau Town Center. Police, Fire and emergency medical
services are also located in Keaau town, one mile from the subject property. Keaau is
centrally located at the junction of two major highway systems in the Puna District, the
Volcano Highway-Kanoelehua Avenue and Keaau-Pahoa Highway. Due to the fact that
the residences, agricultural activities, businesses and schools aze located within the
vicinity of the subject site, an Emergency Plan is required to be submitted.
All utilities and services aze or will be made available to the project site which
aze essential to accommodate urban development. The principal access to the proposed
development is from Keaau Road (TMK: 1-6-03: Portion of 73) and over
TMK:1-6-03:Portion of 15. Both aze graveled roadway easements owned by
W.H. Shipman, Ltd., of which HELCO is authorized to use. The Keaau By-Pass Road
is also proposed to be located within this vicinity. According to a handout, dated
November 18, 1998 by the Department of Transportation, Highways Division, Hawaii
District, the Keaau By-Pass Road will begin at the Old Keaau Road and end near the
Humane Society. Completion is estimated for mid-July 1999. The Old Volcano
Road/Keaau By-Pass Road (presently Keaau Road) intersection, is proposed to be
reconstructed. The Department of Transportation had no comments to offer on this
request. A condition is included that the access roadway easements be paved to a width
of 20 feet from its intersection with the Old Volcano Road to the entrance gate of the
subject property. As the Keaau By-Pass Road is presently under construction, these
improvements may be made in conjunction with any roadway improvements for the
Keaau By-Pass Road.
The project area has no severe geological or topographical problems which
cannot be properly rectified or which would render the land unusable. The subject
property is relatively level with a slight grade. According to the Flood Insurance Rate
Map (FIRM), the project azea is within Zone X, area determined to be outside the
500-year flood plain. The project area is also located outside of any tsunami
Honorable James Y. Arakaki, Chairman
and Members of the County Council
Page 11
inundation azea. Any new construction or improvements to the project area must
comply with Chapter 27 of the County Code relating to Flood Hazazd Control. The
subject property is the site of the Puna Generating Station and will continue operation
as such. As the property has been developed, no endangered or threatened species of
floral or fauna nor any azchaeological sites are anticipated to be found on the subject
property. The State of Hawaii ALISH Map classifies the property as Urban. The
Land Use Study Bureau's Overall Master Productivity Rating for the soils in the azea
is "C" or Fair. There is no agricultural activity on the subject property. Therefore,
the change of zone for this azea will not be detrimental to the reduction of this azea
from the agricultural land inventory in the County of Hawaii.
Based on the above findings, this request for a Change of Zone from an
Agricultural (A-20a) to a General Industrial (MG-10) zoned district would result in an
appropriate land use pattern and further the welfare and convenience of the general
public. Therefore, it is recommended that this request be approved. A condition is
included that the Special Permit No. 686 be voided upon the effective date of this
change of zone.
For your favorable consideration, an amendment to the SLU Boundazies Map H-66, for the
County of Hawaii, and an amendment to Section 25-103/25-8-22 (Puna District Zone Map) of
the County Zoning Code aze transmitted.
We are enclosing copies of the applications, a copy of the staff background, and additional
comments for your information.
Sincerely,
Leonard Tanaka, ~an
Planning Commission
LHELC002.PC
Enclosures
cc: Mr. Mark Gushiken
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Department of Water Supply
Department of Public Works
Kazu Hayashida/DOT-Highways,Honolulu
State Land Use Commission
COUNTY HAWAII PLANNING DEPART! P
APPLICATION FOR STATE LAND USE $OUNDARY tiMENDMENT
(15 ACRES OR LESS)
APPLICANT: Hawail Electr c Li ht Com an I c. HELCO
APPLICANT'S SIGNATURE: "C? to
MAILING ADDRESS: P.0. Box 1027, Hilo, Hawaii, 96721-1027
1,..:_ 1 ~ .:,,l
TELEPHONE: (BUS) 935-1171 (HOME) not applicable
LANDOWNER: same as appli nt
LANDOWNER'S SIGNATURE:
TAX MAP KEY: 1-6-03:93
LAND AREA: 10.5 acres
CURRENT STATE LAND USE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION: Agricultural
REQUESTED STATE LAND USE DISTRICT CLASSIFICATION: Urban
THE APPLICANT SHALL SUBMIT THE FOLLOWING:
A. Non-refundable filing and processing fee of-two hundred dollars.
B. Original and fifteen copies of:
1. Applie;ation form.
2. Location map.
3. Preliminary site plan, drawn to scale, with alI existing
and proposed structures and improvements shown thereon.
4. Reasons for the requested change and written description of
the property and proposed development, including but not
limited to:
a. The extent to which the proposed reclassification
conforms to the applicable goals, policies, standards,
and courses of action of the General Plan and
implementing ordinances, plans and documents; and
b, The extent to which the proposed reclassification
conforms to the applicable district standards.
C. A minimum 2-foot by 3-foot presentation map requested under B.3,
above.
0400q ~
PD 2/26/87
nx~cq: c - r a 3 tsNU -~'S) Pc-
(~-~33)
CHANGE OF ZONE APPLICATION
COVl\1 i ~l` 11['1?I~ n~ nr C,i 1
PLANNING DEPARTMENF~, fit, ~ c~ 11 _0
(Type or legibly print the requested information)
~L.,.: , .,..;,~I
APPLICANT: Hawaii Elect Li ht Co an nc. HELCO
APPLICANT'S SIGNATURE: DATE: l0/2 r, 98
ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027 Hilo Hawaii 96721-1027
LIST APPLICANT'S INTEREST 1F NOT OWNER: Fee owner
LIST PRINCIPAL(S) INCLUDING NAMES OF MAIN OFFICERS: Warren H. W. Lee, President
PHONE:(Bus.) (808) 935-1171 (Res) not applicable (Fax) (808) 969-0100
LANDOWNER(S): same asap ant
LANDOWNER SIGNATURE(S): DATE:lo/z!/98
(Ma be by letter)
LANDOWNER(S) ADDRESS: P.O. Box 1027, Hilo, Hawaii 96721-1027
REQUEST: A-20a TO MG-l0a
((Existing zoning) (Proposed Zoning)
TAX MAP KEY: 1-s-03:93
STREET ADDRESS OF PROPERTY: not applicable
SIZE OF PROPERTY OR AFFECTED AREA(S) TO BE REZONED: 10.5 acres
AGENT: Al Lono Lyman, Sr. Project Manager, CH2M HILL, INC.
ADDRESS: 1585 Kaoiolani Boulevard. Suite 1420 Honolul HI 6814-4570
TELEPHONE:(Bus.) (808) 943-7135x218 (Res.) not applicable (Fax) (808) 941-8225
Please indicate to whom original correspondence and copies should be sent.
ORIGINAL: Mark Gushiken, HELCO COPIES: Al Lono Lyman, CH2M HILL, INC.
(See Instructions on Reverse Side)
At/)4cN~ c_ 133L8~1~ 3b)PC
ATTACHMENT
Commercial, RM, Resort, & Industrial
PLANNING DEPARThENT
COUNTY OF HAWAII
APPLICATION FOR CHANGE OF ZONE
1. If your request is approved, do you intend to subdivide
the subject land in accordance with the approved change
of zone? no
If yes, please answer the rest of question 1 and then to
ques ion 3.
a. How many acres of the requested area do you intend to
subdivide? rra
b. Into what lot sizes?
c. If your request is approved, approximately how long
after the date of approval do you expect to submit
your subdivision plans to the Planning Department
for preliminary approval?
If you intend to subdivide, please submit a preliminary
schematic subdivision plan together with your change of
zone application form.
2. If you have no firm plans of subdividing the subject area,
do you intend to:
a. Sell or lease the land to someone who has firm
plans? no
b. Sell or lease the land to someone who has tentative
plans? no
c. Sell or lease the land to someone who has no plans? no
d. Keep it?
~PR
e. Other (please state)
f. If you intend to do either a, b, or c, please elaborate
on the kind of plans the other party has. Please, also,
invlude in your answer approximately how soon after
approval of your rezoning do you expect to transfer the
subject land to another party.
not applicable
3. What specific building plans do you have for the subject land?
Include in your answer the following: type of building
(apartment, office, launderette, etc.); financing arrangement;
timetable for construction; and any other information which you
feel might help us in evaluating your request.
none
4. Have you performed any study which would demonstrate a need for
your proposed building and/or development? see low
If so, please elaborate on your findings in the space provided
below.
No new buildings contemplated at this time.
-2-
5. Have you performed any study which discusses the
environmental impacts your request would nave on the
surrounding area and/or the County? yes
If so, please elaborate on your findings in the space
provided below.
see accompanying environmental report
6. Are there any buildings on the subject area? ves
If so, what kind?
•Buildings for the production of electrical power.
A building owned by the County Water Department and used in conjunction
with their operations.
What do you intend to do with those buildings if your
request is approved?
Continue current use that is presently permitted with special permit No. 686.
7. Is the subject land currently being used for any
agricultural activitity? no
If so, please list the kinds of products grown and on
how many square feet or acres of land per product.
-3-
8. To your knowledge, has there been any flooding and/or
drainage problem on the subject areal no
Tf so, please describe the problem.
9. Do you think that the roads leading to the subject area
needs improvement? no
If so, what kind?
Is the road adequate for the proposed traffic volume
or load? es
10. What sort of governmental assistance and/or improvements
do you feel will be needed in the subject area when
developed?
Yes No
a. Schools x
b. Roads x
c. Sewer x
d. Drainage x
e. Police Protection x
f. Fire Protection x
g. Recreational Facilities x
h. Public Utilities x
i. Other x
-4-
For those checked "yes," please elaborate what type or kinds of
improvements and/or assistance are needed.
none checked "yes"
11. Have you performed any historic sites study and/or survey of the
subject area? If so, what were the results? Please, also,
submit a copy of the study together with this change of zone
supplement.
Refer to correspondence from State Historic Preservation Division,
Department of Land and Natural Resources, in accompanying
environmental report.
RAYJAI; C..'CT':IC LIGHT CO., ING
Signature:
Box 1027
Address: Hilo, HI 96721-1027
Telephone: 935-1171
pate: October 21, 1998
-5-
6338A/SOA
1V~}~'S@~.~~/y~j1, ~1u
,o r~oT izzlKav~ i ^
Hawaii County Environmental Report
Submitted with Applications for.•
State Land Use Boundary Amendment
from Agriculture to Urban District
and
County Rezoning from Agricultural (A-20a)
to MG-10a
Subject Property Identified as:
HELLO Puna Generating Station
Tax Map Parcel: 1-6-03:93 1~
J
/J
Report Prepared:
c-
October 21, 1998 = -
j
~
Applicant and Landowner.• Prepared By:
~ CH2MHILL
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
pTr~r~1: ~-l33('(i!1(i35"36~PG
Hawaii County Environmental Report
Submitted with Applications for:
State Land Use Boundary Amendment
from Agriculture to Urban District
and
County Rezoning from Agricultural (A-20a)
to MG-10a
Subject Property Identified as:
HELLO Puna Generating Station
Tax Map Parcel: 1-6-03:93
Report Prepared:
October 27, 1998
Applicant and Landowner: Prepared By:
mow'-. ~ CH2MHILL
? L,w.,,
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
Contents
A. SUBJECT REQUEST 1
1. Details of Proposal 1
a. Subject Request and Property Description 1
b. Statement of Objectives and Reason for the Request 4
c. Number of Acres 4
d. Proposed Use 4
e. Time Frame and Cost 7
f. Employees and Others Using Site 7
g. Parking Arrangements 8
h. Traffic Impacts 8
i. Other Related Information 10
j. Proposed On-site and Off-site Infrastructure 10
B. CONFORMANCE WITH STATE/COUNTY PLANS
AND LAND USE DESIGNATIONS 10
2. Hawaii State Plan 10
3. State Energy Functional Plan 12
4. Applicable Goa1s/Policies and Objectives of the
Hawaii County General Plan 14
5. State Land Use Designation 16
6. County General Plan Designation 19
7. County Zoning 19
8. Puna District Community Development Plan 20
9. Special Management Area 20
C. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL
SETTING OF THE PROPERTY AND SURROUNDING AREA 20
10. Description of Subject Property, Location, Climate, Topography,
Slope, Soils 20
11. Lava Flow Hazard Zone 21
12. Distance from Coastline 21
13. Agricultural Lands of Importance in the State of Hawaii
(ALISH) Designation 21
14. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation
Soil Service Report Soi] Type 21
15. Land Study Bureau Soil Rating 21
16. Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) Designation ...........................................22
17. Existing Drainage Ways or Improvements 22
18. Air/Noise/Groundwater/Water Quality 22
i
Contents (cont.)
a. Air Quality 22
b. Noise 22
c. Groundwater 23
d. Water Quality 25
19. Existing Archaeological, Cultural or Historic Sites
on the National Hawaii Register 26
20. Existing Flora/Faunal Resources 26
a. Flora 26
b. Fauna 27
21. Scenic or Coastal Resources 27
22. Social Settlement Pattern for the Area 27
23. Economic Resources of the Area 28
24. Land Values 29
25. Land Use 29
26. Zoning 30
D. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES 30
27. Description of Access 30
28. Availability of Water 31
29. Wastewater Disposal ....................................................................................31
30. Solid and Hazardous Wastes 31
31. Police and Fire Protection 32
32. Schools 32
33. Parks 32
34. Other Utilities and Services (telephone/electricity) 32
E. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND ANALYSIS 32
35. Relationship Between Local Short Term Uses of Environment
and Maintenance and Enhancement of Long Term Productivity 32
36. Mitigate Measures Proposed to Avoid, Minimize, Rectify or
Reduce Impact 33
37. Alternatives to the Proposed Development 33
38. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Natural Resources
Involved if Proposed Action Implemented 33
F. AGENCY COMMENTS 34
39. Agency Comments 34
a. U.S. Department of the Interior (all comments in Appendix D)
b. State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture
c. State of Hawaii, Department of Budget and Finance,
Housing Finance and Development Corporation
ii
Contents (cont.)
d. State of Hawaii, Department of Business, Economic Development
& Tourism
e. State of Hawaii, Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR)
f. State of Hawaii, DLNR, State Historic Preservation Division
g. State of Hawaii, Department of Health
h. State of Hawaii, Department of Transportation
i. County of Hawaii, Department of Public Works
j. County of Hawaii, Planning Department
k. County of Hawaii, Department of Research and Development
1. County of Hawaii, Department of Water Supply
Appendixes
A Metes and Bounds Description of Subject Property
B HELCO's Puna Generation Facility Traj~c Assessment by
Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc.
C Puna Generating Station, Air Quality Impacts by Jim Clary and Associates
D Agency Comment Letters
Figures
1 HELCO Puna Generating Station 2
2 HELCO Puna Generating Station Existing Improvements 3
Tables
1 HELCO Resource Plan: 1998 to 2017 5
2 Maximum Permissible Sound Levels in Decibels 23
iii
A. SUBJECT REQUEST
1. Details of Proposal
a. Subject Request and Property Description
The applicant, Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc. (HELLO), is the owner of the site
containing the Puna Generating Station. HELLO is requesting:
• State Land Use boundary amendment from the Agriculture to Urban
District (pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statute (HRS) Section 205-3.1, as
amended, and Chapter 28 of the Hawaii County Code), and
• County rezoning from Agricultural (A-20a) to MG-10a.
HELCO's Puna Generating Station is identified as Tax Map Key (TMK) 1-6-03:93.
The HELLO site is comprised of a portion of the former Puna Sugar mill property and
a portion of a former railroad right-of-way. The HELLO site is located in the Puna
District, County of Hawaii. Figure One depicts the location of the site. Figure Two is
a site plan of the Puna Generating Station, depicting all existing uses and structures.
Figure Two does not reflect any new structures, as there aze none that are currently
planned. Appendix A is a metes and bounds description of the subject property.
Power generation was originally undertaken in conjunction with the operation of the
sugar mill that previously occupied the site. Electricity was generated for both the
sugar operations and employee-residents. Until the sugar mill ceased operations in
the eazly-1980s, the power generation activity was an ancillary use of a permitted
agricultural activity.
After the sugar operations ceased, HELLO acquired a portion of the mill site to
continue generating power. In late 1988, the Hawaii County Planning Commission
approved HELCO's request for a Special Permit for the site. Special Permit No. 686
allowed HELLO to establish the electric power plant and related improvements as the
principal use of the site. The Special Permit was required, since the power generation
use was no longer an ancillary use to a permitted agricultural activity. The Special
Permit does not impose any conditions limiting the generation capacity or the mix of
related improvements on the site.
In 1992, HELLO initiated service of a 20.8-MW combustion turbine unit-three (CT-
3) generation unit at the Puna Generating Station.
(1)
Figure One
Site Map, HELCO Puna Generating Station
2~~
o u
Puna Generating Station
II II ~
w + ,h • / .
• • r II °
II _
• • r~r~ _o=._ ter- J
~ o /
~ '
II a a\\ iC \
a • ~%f o L
• • ~ I~II
"~VV
• • .Tan Ca „ /i
tt s s s• / ¦ww
R • • ? iii 1\ N
\ • • • t • • •s• ~ \U
¦ •d••• r II~ ~ ~
eau II
.gyp ~s • ~ ~ //iii p'/ /i l/ l/ ij~~.,
: ~ Camp , FUwauS.ECia~clx~rrtCOhtr,wr~lt+c.
~a-~u ~
~ , ~ ~ KEAAU, HAWAII
a \fr /I O scuFi ~ s
(2)
Figure Two
HELCO Puna Generating Station Existing Improvements
(No Additional Improvements Currently Planned)
X,
j
j
I
I
j
~1 ran. ~ g
1 ~
j a
j nu v
II 4
j
1 E%I6TI NL win~n
CONCRETE CIPB l~1ESM SSI Oy
I!I UM1OgO MG MEq `•9gAn
I -
I, ,kf~
. TF
PUVS - ~\A 9
I' F
rj
HI ' \ 1 `TI,~ ~1~
wj CfW N. VfR \1E%I6i1 NG \ `f'V(.
Q.. 6~ RGE T%5 CI RCkpiI NG `
[rl u'-e• wcw
aj FuEL OIL 1pNl( xoCl IruECrl ax
DB'-e' Ol q. WiER vLW
i JZ -B' MI IFF ~L5 I SiEE~ OOpRLI N~
I
1 OO61 NL ~
I. _ _ ~LgNK o:
II I w
OI L6igNK fuEL ~ L PMCKS SEPTIC
1RNK ~I _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
~ NEUipRLl2gtIW • ~LO
~ igXK Ile'-e' 1 CMSTIC BgLg55E ~I `~`I
SY6tEM
~ E%I Si. fiTORFg6EC BLOKR j~
I OIXE 1 OI LUil p1 TER BLOL f%I SiI xG I
I RRI LgIIM ipgH6EER P111C' TMKS NELCO
1 iK 115'-e' p .1 ul 511BSigT10N I ``L
I. I NI 69NV I
]qKV
1 1 1/ I
11 .1.. _ ~/I ~II~k4iI NG 1 1~1
1 SiFBLIq ipBCN llJ I 1.
I, PMpi BLKKSIML pI AE 1 1
~ ~ F%I ii FUEL OIESEL~ I I
1 OIL IMK EWIPIENiM I I 1
I EXISTING WPLEY LI WIO _ _ ,m® ~ `ME< 69NV 6VI iCMI NL'
FkL OIL LEL fIMS 0 B' RELgI NI HL TIT FOR E[TBENSI ON 11.
I. yf 1 I
I S1gTIGh~~;I VREFILTEEL I~ of VE%I SiINL I ~ 1.
~''YT L_._. _.J
~ ~ EY151. CI RCkgSI NG 1 I
I e/ OI ESEL PUIp 1
FyEL mL 1MM I I
L Imo' MY TRN( (CT- - ECI Si. FLE EXI STI NL I I
I ~ Ile'-e' qIR C04E Y ORYFR j OI IgNY~5~K10NERRLI ZER I 1
~ j iRgXSFORWp6 1 I
I 01 C00 MIR COW I ~ ~ I I
1E%I SlIN n
oiER n I 1
ngNK OIL/%aTER
I GEKCRgIOR LOBE SEPgpgle [pI1~1gOL I '
OIL [WLE 6 10gR~q,GE I
I!II VRLL ~a I
I ~
1 _ N~ ,J I
yy ?I
I E%I SII NG
Mg1ER
1PHK
~6igCK1 NL~'~
PROPERTY LINE
Source: Site plan provided by HECO Engineering
(3)
b. Statement of Objectives and Reason for the Request
HELLO wants to rezone the site from an agricultural zoning designation to the
County's general industrial designation. The general industrial zoning designation is
consistent with the current use of the site and the County's General Plan "Industrial"
designation for the site and surrounding area.
By a letter dated February 3, 1997, the County Planning Director confirmed that the
HELLO Puna Generating Station site is within the area designated as "Industrial" by
the General Plan Land Use Pattern Guide (LUPAG) Map. The letter also confirmed
that Special Permit No. 686 does not impose any conditions limiting the expansion of
the site's generation capacity and related improvements. (Letter dated Februazy 3,
1997, from Ms. V. K. Goldstein, Planning Director, Hawaii County.)
HELCO's request for both an amendment of the State Land Use Boundary to the
Urban District, and the request for an amendment of the County's zoning designation
to general industrial conforms with the County General Plan LUPAG map designation
for the site and applicable sections of the General Plan.
c. Number of Acres
TMK 1-6-03:93 has an azea of 10.5 acres, and is comprised of the 9.3-acre former
mill site and a 1.2-acre azea that was part of a railroad right-of-way.
d. Proposed Use (units/lots/floor azea)
HELLO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related
ancillary improvements. These aze currently the use permitted by Special Permit No.
686 approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on November 15, 1988.
Generation Capacity
The Puna Power Plant site currently includes a 15.5 MW steam unit acquired from
AMFAC and a 20.8 MW combustion turbine generator (CT-3).
HELCO's most current resource plan for power-generation needs are attached as
Table One. The table is based on information set forth in a document titled "Hawaii
Electric light Company, Ltd. 1998 Electric Utility System Cost Data Filling,"
prepared by Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc., and dated June 30, 1998
The aforementioned resource plan indicates anticipated additions, retirements, and
status changes for HELCO's generation sources, including non-HELLO generation
sources, through the yeaz 2017. HELCO's resource plan indicates that through the
year 2017, HELLO does not plan to expand the generation capacity at the Puna
(4)
Table One
HELCO Resource Plan: 1998 to 2017
Power Facility Additions and Retirements for the Island of Hawaii
As of June 30,1998
Reduced
Peak
Net with Reserve Reserve
Peak DSM= System Margin Margin Resource Capacity
Year (MW) (MW) Ca abili (MW) Percent Descri lion Chan a Date MW~
1998 173.3 165.0 223.0 58.0 35.2 CT-4 Add 12/98 19.90
217.5 52.5 31.8 Keahole
D-18-19 Retire 12/98 (5.50)
237.4 72.4 43.9 CT-5 Add 12/98 19.90
234.7 69.7 42.2 Keahole
D-206 Retire 12/98 (2.75)
1999 175.2 166.0 256.7 90.7 54.6 Encogen
Phase 1 Add 4/99 22.00
253.6 87.6 52.8 Shipman 16 Retire 4/99 (3.07)
250.6 84.6 51.0 Waimea Retire 4/99 (3.00)
D-8,9,10°
242.3 76.3 46.0 Waimea Retire 4/99 (8.25)
D-12,13,146
280.3 114.3 68.9 Encogen Add 8/99 38.00
Phase 2
268.8 102.8 61.9 Kancelehua Retire 8/99 (11.50)
CT-16
266.8 100.8 60.7 Kanoelehua Retire 8/99 (2.00)
D-116
258.6 92.6 55.8 Kancelehua Retire 8/99 (8.25)
D-15,16,176
250.3 84.3 50.8 Keahole Retire 8/99 (8.25)
D-206
235.4 69.4 41.8 Puna Standby 8/99 (14.98)
Steam6
213.4 47.4 28.5 HCPC Retire 12/99 (22.00)
Contract
termination
2000 177.2 167.0 213.4 46.4 27.8
2001 180.1 168.9 213.4 44.5 26.3
(Table One, continued on next page)
(5)
Table One (continued)
HELCO Resource Plan: 1998 to 2017
Power Facility Additions and Retirements for the Island of Hawaii
As of June 30,1998
Reduced
Peak
Net with Reserve Reserve
Peak DSMx System Margin Margin Resource Capacity
Year (MW) (MW) Ca abili (MW) Percent Descri lion Chan a Date MWa
2002 184.0 171.9 213.4 41.5 24.1
2003 188.0 174.9 228.3 53.4 30.5 Puna Steam Return 14.98
2004 192.2 178.0 228.3 50.3 28.3
2005 196.6 181.3 221.2 39.9 22.0 Shipman 3 Retire (7.09)
2006 201.4 186.0 237.9 51.9 27.9 ST-7 (CT-4 Add 16.70
and 5 to
DTCC)
2007 206.3 190.3 237.9 47.6 25.0
2008 211.4 194.6 230.6 36.0 18.5 Shipman 4 Retire (7.31)
2009 216.5 198.7 251.6 52.9 26.6 DTCT-PHl Add 20.92
(A)
2010 221.7 202.9 251.6 48.7 24.0
2011 227.4 207.7 251.6 43.8 21.1
2012 233.2 212.9 272.5 59.6 28.0 DTCT-PH2 Add 20.92
(A)
2013 239.2 218.4 272.5 54.1 24.8
2014 245.4 224.0 272.5 48.5 21.6
2015 251.7 229.6 259.0 29.4 12.6 Hi115 Retire (13.46)
2016 258.4 235.7 277.9 42.2 17.9 DTCT-PH3 Add 18.90
(A)
2017 265.3 242.0 298.8 58.8 23.5 DTCT-PH1 Add 20.92
(B)
Abbreviations: CT =Combustion turbine; DTCT-PH# =dual-train first or second CT; DTCC-PH# =dual train combined
cycle
~ Net peaks are from HELCO "Recommended Annual GWh Sales and Net Peak Forecast;' dated September 11,1997.
= Reduced peak is net peak less impart from DSM, HMEC, and off-peak rider confraMS. DSM impact values are from
HELCO's second IRP process (IRP-98) and include the following: (a) Residential Efficient Water Heating Program (REWH)
-PUC Docket No. 95-0173; (b) Commercial and Industrial Energy Efficiency Program (CIEE) -PUC Docket No. 95-0174;
(c) Commercial and Industrial New Construction Program (CINC) -PUC Docket No. 95-0175; and (d) Commercial and
Indusfrial Customized Rebate Program (CICR) -PUC Docket No. 95-01736.
a System capability and generating resourm capacities shown as net to HELCO system.
° Keahole D-18 and D-19 are schedule for retirement when CT-4 is put into service as a condition of the CT-4 air permitting
requirements. Keahole D-20 is retired when CT-5 is installed and Keahole D-21 is restricted in operations as part of the
netting out for the air permit.
s Keahole D-18 and D-19 are schedule for retirement when CC'I'-4 is put into service as a conditions of the CT-4
e HELCO's current plans are to retire Kancelehua D-11, 15-17, cT-1 and Keahole D-21-23 upon the installation of Encogen
phase 2. Also upon Encogen phase 2 installation, HELCO plans to place the Puna steam unit on cold standby with no
ca aci value. The Puna Steam unit is scheduled to return to service in 2003 to defer the need for ST-7.
Source: "Hawaii Electric Light Company, Ltd. 1998 Electric Utility System Cost Data Filling," prepared
by Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc., June 30, 1998.
(6)
Generating Station site. The only changes currently anticipated at the Puna Station is
placing the 15.5 MW steam generation unit on a cold standby status in 1999, and
returning the steam unit to active status in the yeaz 2003.
While HELCO's current resource plan does not reflect increasing the generation
capacity at the Puna Generating Station through the yeaz 2017, the generation capacity
at the site may be increased sometime in the future after the year 2017. Further,
changes in the assumptions used to prepare the resource plan could lead also to
changes in the generation capacity needed by HELCO at the Puna site prior to the year
2017.
Related Improvements
Related improvements include non-generating and ancillary uses at HELCO's Puna
Generating Station. These include fuel storage, water pumps and storage, a
switchyazd, and transmission lines and related facilities.
HELCO currently has no plans to add any related improvements at the Puna
Generating Station. However, these may be increased at some yet unspecified time in
the future.
e. Time Frame and Cost
Since HELCO currently has no plans to increase the generation capacity or to expand
the related improvements at the Puna Generating Station, the time frame and cost are
not relevant.
f. Employees and Others Using Site
HELCO's current full- and part-time staffing for the Puna Generating Station consists
of three shifts with two employees per shift. Other HELCO staff visits the site, as
required by specific tasks. HELCO also occasionally has contractors working a[ the
site for specific tasks.
County Water Depaztment staff occasionally service the department's facilities
located within the HELCO site. 'i here are not any Water Department personnel
assigned to the site on a full- or pazt-time basis.
The site has a security fence and a locked security entry gate. The fence and gate are
to preclude unauthorized personnel and vehicles from entering the site. The fence
generally follows the site's property line, although along Keaau Road the fence is set
back from the property line.
(7)
g. Parking Arrangements
The site has on-site paved and graveled areas within the fenced portion of the site to
meet the pazking requirements of the County zoning code. No off-site pazking is
required or contemplated.
h. Traffic Impacts
Existine Conditions
The primary access to the Puna Generating Station site is from Mamalahoa Highway
via Keaau Road. Mamalahoa Highway (State Route 11, elsewhere referred to as
Routes 19 and 190, and also known as Hawaii Belt Road) is a major arterial serving
most of the Island of Hawaii. Within the vicinity of the HELCO site, Mamalahoa
Highway is afour-lane highway that runs generally in the north-south direction.
Keaau Road is a private road providing access from Old Volcano Road to the existing
HELCO Generating Station. The two-lane Old Volcano Road runs pazallel and east
of Mamalahoa Highway. Keaau Road crosses Old Volcano Road.
The current staffing of the generating station consists of three shifts with two
employees per shift. Diesel fuel deliver currently is comprised of 21 to 49 trips per
week.
Weekday morning (AM) and afternoon (PM) period traffic counts were conducted by
Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc. (ATA) at two intersections in the morning and
evening peak period on Mazch 19 and 20, 1997. Appendix B is the ATA report of the
traffic analysis titled "HELCO's Puna Generation Facility Traffic Assessment." The
two intersections analyzed in the report are Keaau Road and Mamalahoa Highway,
and Keaau Road and Old Volcano Road. The following summarizes the report's
findings:
• During the morning AM peak period, the peak direction of traffic flow on
Mamalahoa Highway is in the northbound direction with approximately 2,640
vehicles during the peak hour and approximately 640 peak hour vehicles in the
southbound direction. During the afternoon PM peak period, the peak direction of
flow is in the opposite direction with approximately 1,800 peak hour vehicles in
the southbound direction and approximately 770 peak hour vehicles in the
northbound direction.
• It was observed that during the PM peak period, a relatively high number of
southbound vehicles (267 vehicles per hour (vph)) on Mamalahoa Highway turn
left onto Keaau Road and then turn right onto Old Volcano Road. It is assumed
that most of these motorists are bound for the residential areas of Keaau Town.
• Based on the existing traffic count data, the number of vehicles that utilizes Keaau
Road serving the HELCO facility area is relatively low. During the AM peak
(8)
hour, only 46 vph with 12 vph in the westbound and 34 in eastbound direction
were observed. During the PM peak hour, only 33 vph utilize Keaau Road with
27 in the westbound direction and 6 in the eastbound directions.
• Level of Service (LOS) is a qualitative measure used to describe the conditions of
traffic flow, ranging from free-flow conditions at LOS "A" to congested
conditions at LOS "F." The methods utilized in the ATA traffic analysis for
calculating delays and corresponding levels of service at stop-controlled
intersections are based on the 1994 Hi ehway Capacity Manual -Special Report
209.
• The ATA traffic analysis indicates that during the AM peak hour, the southbound
left-turn from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road is operating at LOS F. Long
delays to this particular movement are mainly due to the number of northbound
opposing vehicles on Mamalahoa Highway. The westbound left-turn from Keaau
Road to Mamalahoa Highway is also operating at LOS F during the AM peak
hour, but this only affects a small number of vehicles (only one vehicle during the
peak hour was observed). The remaining movements at both intersections are
operating at acceptable levels of services (LOS A, B, C or D).
• Based on existing traffic volumes plus expected ambient growth in traffic caused
by regional growth throughout the Island of Hawaii, traffic growth is anticipated
to be 1% per year. In the year 2001, the peak hour operations at both intersections
are expected to be similar to existing 1997 operating conditions.
• ATA recommends that no improvements are necessary at the intersections of
Mamalahoa Highway and Keaau Road. Although the westbound left-turn is
currently operating at an undesirable level of service, only a small number of
vehicles are affected. And although the southbound left-turn from Mamalahoa to
Keaau Road is operating at an undesirable level of service, this only occurs during
the morning peak period when the opposing northbound approach is heavy.
Based on the traffic counts conducted by ATA, most of these vehicles are bound
for Keaau Town, which can also be accessed by Ahoa Street and Kalapana Road
further south.
Keaau Bypass Road
The State Department of Transportation, Highways Division, is currently constructing
the first phase of a two-phase project comprised of a four-lane bypass road routing
Keaau-Pahoa (State Highway 130) traffic around the Keaau Town. An environmental
assessment (EA) was prepared for the project's proposals, and a "Notice of
Determination Negative Declaration" was completed and accepted in December 1995
for the Keaau-Pahoa bypass road, State Department of Transportation, Highways
Division Project No. 130-B-O1-92.
(9)
The alternative selected for the 2.2-mile project will begin on the Keaau-Pahoa Road,
in the vicinity of the former plantation manager's house (now referred to as Banyan
Inn) proceed between 8-1/2 Mile Camp and the Milo Street neighborhood, and return
to Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway) at Keaau Road.
A traffic analysis for the Keaau-Pahoa Road EA was prepared by Barton-Aschman
Associates, Inc., and is dated December 1993. The traffic report indicates that if the
bypass road were not built, significant improvements would have been required on
Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway). The Keaau-Pahoa Road EA traffic analysis also
indicates that construction of the bypass road will favorably impact the road
intersections serving the HELCO Puna Generating Station and improve the LOS at
the intersection of Keaau Road and Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway).
Telephone conversations with a representative (personal conversations with Robert
Taira, Design Engineer, May 6 and 8, 1998) of the State Department of
Transportation, Highways Division, indicates that the bypass road intersection at
Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway) will be fully signalized with right- and left-turn
lanes and acceleration and deceleration lanes. For traffic turning onto Keaau Road
from the bypass road, there will be deceleration lanes and turning pockets with a stop
sign for left turns on to Keaau Road. For traffic turning from Keaau Road onto the
bypass road, a stop sign will be located on Keaau Road and acceleration lanes will be
constructed on the new highway.
i. Other Related Information
There is no other related information.
j. Proposed On-site and Off-site Infrastructure
There is no on- or off-site infrastructure that would be impacted.
B. CONFORMANCE WITH STATE/COUNTY PLANS AND LAND USE
DESIGNATIONS
2. Hawaii State Plan
HELCO's proposed reclassification of the Puna Generating station site conforms to the
applicable goals, objectives, and policies of the Hawaii State Plan.
The Hawaii State Plan, Chapter 226, "Hawaii Revised Statutes," is a guide for future
long-range development. II identifies [he goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the
State; allocates limited resources; improves coordination among federal, state, and county
agencies; and establishes a system for integrating all major state and county activities.
Section 226-14 of the State Plan, Objectives and Policies for Facility Systems applies, in
general, to the proposed project and states the following:
(10)
a. Planning for the State's facility systems in general shall be directed towards
achievement of the objective of water, transportation, waste disposal, and
energy and telecommunication systems that support statewide social,
economic, and physical objectives.
b. To achieve the general facility system objective, it shall be the policy of this
State to:
1. Accommodate the needs of Hawaii's people through coordination of
facility systems and capital improvement priorities in consonance with
state and county plans
2. Encourage flexibility in the design and development of
facility systems
to promote prudent use of resources and accommodate changing
public demands and priorities
3. Ensure that required facility systems can be supported within resource
capacities and at reasonable cost to the user
4. Pursue alternative methods of
financing programs and projects and
cost-saving techniques in the planning, construction, and maintenance
of
facility systems.
The HELCO Puna Generating Station will contribute to meeting the demand for
electricity on the Island of Hawaii and to maintaining and improving system reliability.
Section 226-18 of [he Hawaii State Plan, "Objectives and Policies for Facility Systems
Energy/Telecommunications," applies specifically to the project and states the following:
a. Planning for the State's facility systems with regard to energy shall be
directed towards the achievement of the following objectives:
1. Dependable, efficient, and economical statewide energy systems
capable of supporting the needs of the people
2. Increased energy self-sufficiency where the ratio of indigenous to
imported energy use is increased; and
3. Greater energy security in the face of threats to Hawaii's enc rgy
supplies and systems.
b. To achieve the energy objectives, it shall be the policy of this State to ensure
the provision of adequate, reasonably priced, and dependable power and
telecommunication services to accommodate demand.
c. To further achieve the energy objectives, it shall be the policy of this State to:
1. Support research and development as well as promote the use of
renewable energy sources;
2. Ensure that the combination of energy supplies and energy-saving
systems are sufficient to support the demands of growth;
(11)
3. Base decisions of least-cost supply-side and demand-side energy
resource options on a comparison of their total costs and benefits when
a least-cost is determined by a reasonably comprehensive, quantitative,
and qualitative accounting of their long-term, direct and indirect
economic, environmental, social, cultural, and public health costs and
benefits;
4. Promote all cost-effective conservation of power and fuel supplies
through measures including:
A. Development ofcost-effective demand-side management
programs;
B. Education; and
C. Adoption of energy-efficient practices and technologies;
S. Ensure to the extent that new supply-side resources are needed, the
development or expansion of energy systems utilizes the least-cost
energy supply option and maximizes efficient technologies;
6. Support research, development, and demonstration of energy efficiency,
load management, and other demand-side management programs,
practices, and technologies; and
7. Promote alternative fuels and energy efficiency by encouraging
diversification of transportation modes and infrastructure.
The Puna Generating Station, in the context of HELCO's integrated approach to energy
production and conservation, conforms to these objectives and policies. At this time,
alternative fuels and technologies do not represent the least-cost energy supply option or
the maximum efficient technology. HELCO is also actively participating in education
and reseazch programs to further develop alternative fuels and technologies in Hawaii.
3. State Energy Functional Plan
HELCO's proposed reclassification of the Puna Generating station site conforms to the
applicable priority guidelines of the Hawaii State Plan and the adopted functional plans.
The Hawaii State Plan requires the development of State Functional Plans (SFPs). `,Vhile
the Hawaii State Plan establishes long-term objectives for Hawaii, the SFPs delineate the
specific strategies and prioritize actions that need to be addressed in the short term.
The objectives of the State Energy Functional Plan (1991) are to achieve dependable,
efficient, and economical statewide energy systems capable of supporting the needs of the
people and to increase energy self-sufficiency.
The major issues identified in the Plan that apply to the Puna Generating Station aze
discussed below. The Puna Generating Station meets the objectives related to energy
conservation, energy efficiency, and alternative and renewable energy; however, it does
not address the objective of furthering energy self-sufficiency.
(12)
Energy conservation and efficiency can reduce the dependence on imported fossil fuels
and overall energy demand. To achieve this, an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) was
developed and approved by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Integrated Resource
Planning is the process of developing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating a utility
resource plan that identifies an optimum mix of energy resources for meeting forecasted
levels of consumer energy needs. Demand-Side Management (DSM) programs, which
are a component of the IRP, were designed to influence customer consumption of
electricity in a manner that will produce changes in the utility's demand. Potential
programs include conservation, energy efficiency, load management, and fuel
substitution. The energy conservation and efficiency policy and action items pertaining to
the Puna Generating Station are as follows:
Policy A(I): Promote and Stimulate Greater Energy Efficiency and Conservation in
Non-Transportation Sectors
Action A(1)(a): Provide Technical Support and Assistance to the State
Government, County Governments, the PUC, and The Energy Utilities in
Developing the Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) Process and Carrying
Out Demand-Side Management (DSM) Assessments.
Action A(1)(b): Advance the Use of Demand-Side Management (DSM) by
Creating Pilot Programs and Promoting Education of Local Energy
Producers and Users.
Through the II2P process, HELCO has developed along-range energy plan for Hawaii
County. The IRP developed energy plan considers both the traditional supply-side
resources and the customer (demand-side) resources that are available. IRP has brought
about changes in the way utilities conduct their business, by including demand-side
options as a resource and by having the public participate in the planning process through
advisory groups. HELCO formed an advisory group representing business, government,
environmental, cultural, and community groups. Those groups with a special interest in
energy issues, as well as individuals who could lend special expertise to the process, were
included.
The advisory group met several times during the plan development process. The
meetings covered such areas as organizational issues, forecasting, demand-side resources,
supply-side resources, and the IItP objectives and principles. Public meetings were also
held to present the forecasted sales and peak demand, identify DSM and supply-side
resource options, and to obtain feedback into the IRP process. These public meetings
were also intended to introduce the IRP process to the general public so that they may
have a better understanding of the participatory process.
The IRP programs provide peak-demand saving. However, because energy efficiency and
peak capacity reductions have not been comprehensively pursued by any organization in
Hawaii to date, there is considerable uncertainty about how to structure the DSM
programs. Monitoring of the implementation process will be important, and programs
will need to be adjusted as the implementation process moves forward. HELCO expects
(13)
to update its DSM program plans annually to optimize program implementation and
energy savings.
The Slate is encouraging development of altemative and renewable energy sources as
Hawaii's primary energy source. These resources include geothermal, ocean thermal
(OTEC), solaz photovoltaic, biomass, wind, and hydropower. Although the State has
made progress in altemative energy technologies, only geothermal currently provides a
potential for firm, reliable electricity. It is the only commercially mature indigenous
resource available in lazge quantities that can be converted to baseload (24-hour-per-day)
electricity. Other alternative energy resources, such as solaz and wind technologies, do
not provide firm, baseload power and aze not economically feasible at this time.
HELCO has contributed to and constructed facilities for alternative and renewable energy
resources, such as wind and hydroelectric power. HELCO also provides rebates to
commercial users who install solaz power units. HELCO also has power purchase
contracts with independent power producers. These power purchase contracts are based
on alternative and renewable technologies. Examples include sugar cane bagasse and
coal-fueled steam turbine generators. While extensive dependence on such contracts can
increase supply risks, HELCO has evaluated and continues to evaluate IPP alternatives
and renewable energy power supply offers.
4. Applicable Goals/Policies and Objectives of the Hawaii County General Plan
A County Ordinance with an effective date of November 14, 1989, amended the Hawaii
County General Plan. The General Plan has goals, policies and standards for 13 topics:
economic, environmental quality, flood control and drainage, historic sites, natural
beauty, natural resources and shoreline, housing, public facilities, public utilities,
recreation, transportation, and land use. HELCO's request for both an amendment of the
State Land Use Boundary to the Urban District, and the request for an amendment of the
County's zoning designation to general industrial conforms with the County General Plan
LUPAG map designation for the site and applicable sections of the General Plan. The
following are the goals, policies, and standards that apply to [his project:
Energy
Policies
• The County shall strive to assure a sufficient supply of energy to
support present and future demands.
Standards
• New power plants shall incorporate devices which minimize
pollution
Public Utilities
Goals
• Ensure that adequate, efficient and dependable public utility services will
be available to users
• Maximize efficiency and economy in the provision of public utility services
(14)
• To have public utility facilities which are designed to fit into their
surroundings or concealed from public view
Policies
• Public utility facilities shall be designed so as to complement adjacent
land uses and shall be operated so as to minimize pollution or
disturbance.
• Provide utilities and service facilities that minimize total cost to the
public and effectively service the needs of the community.
• Utility facilities shall be designed to minimize conflict with the natural
environment and natural resources.
• Improvement of existing utility services shall be encouraged to meet
the needs of users.
• The County shall develop short- and long-range capital improvement
programs and plans for public utilities within its jurisdiction and
which are consistent with the County General Plan.
Electricity
Policies
• The County should encourage electrical utility companies to develop a
comprehensive plan for the generation, transmission, and distribution
of electrical power to the various parts of the Islands.
Standards
• There shall be a minimization of obstruction of scenic views and
vistas by electrical facilities.
Land Use
Goals
• Designate and allocate land uses in appropriate proportions and miz and
in keeping with the social, cultural, and physical environments of the
County.
Policies
• Zone urban- and rural-types of uses in areas with ease of access to
community service and employment centers and with adequate public
utilities and facilities.
• Promote encourage the rehabilitation and use of urban and rural
areas which are services by basic community facilities and utilities.
Industrial Land Use
Goals
• Designate and allocate industrial areas in appropriate proportions and in
keeping with the social, cultural, and physical environment of the County.
• Promote and encourage the rehabilitation of industrial areas that are
serviced by basic community facilities and utilities.
Policies
• Through its zoning powers, the County shall locate industrial areas
convenient to transportation facilities, and provide a variety of
(15)
industrial zoned districts and lot sizes, depending on the needs of the
industries and the communities.
5. Slate Land Use Designation
The site of the Puna Generating Station is currently designated by the State Land Use
Commission (LUC) as part of the state's "Agricultural" district. HELCO is requesting
through the County, an amendment of the site's Land Use District designation to the
Urban District. The processing of [he boundary amendment through the County is
pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statute (HRS) Section 205-3.1, as amended, and Chapter 28
of the Hawaii County Code. They allow the County to amend State Land Use district
boundaries for lands 15 acres or Tess located in the State Land Use Urban, Rural, and
Agricultural Districts.
HELCO's request for an amendment of the State Land Use Boundary to the Urban
District is reasonable and does not violate the standards for the Urban District of the State
Land Use Boundaries as set forth in HRS 205-2.
The standards used by the LUC for detemilning Urban District boundaries, as listed in HAR
15-15-18, and the relationship of the proposed project to them are discussed below.
1 It shall include lands characterized by "city-like" concentrations of people,
structures, streets, urban level of services and other related land uses.
2. It shall take into consideration the following specific factors:
A. Proximity to centers of trading and employment except where the
development would generate new centers of trading and employment
B. Substantiation of economic feasibility by the petitioner
C. Proximity to basic services such as sewers, transportation systems,
water, sanitation, schools, parks, and police and fire protection
D. Sufficient reserve areas for urban growth in appropriate locations
based on a ten-year projection
3. It shall include lands with satisfactory topography and drainage and
reasonably free from the danger of
floods, tsunami, unstable soil conditions,
and other adverse environmental effects.
4. In determining urban growth for the next ten years, or in amending the
boundary, land contiguous with existing urban areas shall be given more
consideration than non-contiguous land, and particularly when indicated for
future urban use on state or county general plans.
5. It shall include lands in appropriate locations far new urban concentrations
and shall give consideration to areas of urban growth as shown on the state
and county general plans.
6. It may include lands which do not conform to the standards in paragraphs
I to S:
(16)
A. When surrounded by or adjacent to existing urban development
B. Only when those lands represent a minor portion of this district
7. It shall not include lands, the urbanization of which will contribute toward
scattered spot urban development, necessitating unreasonable investment in
public infrastructure or support services.
8. It may include lands with a general slope of twenty percent or more which do
not provide open space amenities or scenic values if the commission finds that
those lands are desirable and suitable for urban purposes and that official
design and construction controls are adequate to protect the public health,
welfare and safety, and the public's interest in the aesthetic quality of the
landscape.
The Puna Generating Site is currently a heavy industrial use that reflects the continuation
of a use established by the sugar operations that were discontinued in the 1980s.
Slopes on the project site are minimal. The site does not lie in any flood or tsunami zones.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conservation Service Soil
Survey Report classifies the soils in the vicinity of the site as being in the Olaa series, and
specifically the Olaa Silty Clay Loam (OaC). This series is characterized by moderately
deep, moderately fine soil. Permeability is rapid, runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard
slight.
A culvert adjacent to the road serving the site drains into a drainage ditch parallel to the
road. Standard on-site drainage improvements would accommodate any future
intensification of the use of the site. HELCO will comply with all applicable regulations
governing drainage.
The location of the project site does not represent a significant adverse impact to scenic views
or vistas, nor does it cause a significant adverse impact on the aesthetic quality of the
landscape.
The use of the site for generation and distribution of electricity does not significantly diminish
the available supply of land used for agricultural activities, nor will it have any adverse impact
on the remaining adjacent agricultural uses.
The proposed project will not require extension of existing County or State infrastructure
to the site and the project will not have any impact that will require the expenditure of
public funds for infrastructure.
HELCO and the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply (DWS) have sepazate
groundwater wells on the Puna Generating Station site.
The HELCO Puna Generating site has a minimal impact on any requirement for police
and fire protection.
(17)
The site has no significant adverse impact on regional traffic and there is no mitigation
measure recommended.
The continued use of the site to generate and distribute electricity will not directly cause
additional population growth on the Island of Hawaii.
HECO is a subsidiary of Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc. (HECO), a company with
publicly traded stock. The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulates HELCO. As a
subsidiary of a publicly traded company, HELCO has access to the economic resources
required to develop [he project. HELCO can request the authority from the PUC to make
expenditures for construction of the proposed facility and to recapture costs through the
electricity rates paid by HELCO's customers. HECO is also able to issue bonds and stock
to finance the project. No such request is contemplated in conjunction with this
application.
The reclassification of the site to [he Urban district will not impact the provision of sufficient
service areas for other urban growth requirements. Approval of the "Urban" district
designation would be consistent with approved urban land use reclassifications in the
immediate vicinity of Keaau. The reclassification of the site to the Urban district will not
contribute to scattered spot urban development, as it is in the midst of areas with urban
type uses, and is adjacent to and in close proximity to existing urban designated lands and
facilities.
In addition to the standards for the Urban District set forth in HAR 15-15-18, the LUC
considers specific criteria in making their decision as outlined in HAR 15-15-77. Those
decision-making criteria for boundary amendments and the relationship of the proposed
project to them are outlined below.
1. The extent to which the proposed reclassification conforms to the goals,
objectives, and policies of the Hawaii State Plan and relates to the applicable
priority guidelines of the Hawaii State Plan and the adopted functional plans.
2. The extent to which the proposed reclassification conforms to the applicable
district standards.
3. The impact of the proposed reclassification on the following areas of stare
concern:
A. Preservation or maintenance of important natural systems or habitats
B. Maintenance of valued cultural, historical, or natural resources
C. Maintenance of other natural resources relevam to Hawaii's economy
including, but not limited to agricultural resources
D. Commitment of state funds and resources
E. Provision for employment opportunities and economic development
F. Provision for housing opportunities for all income groups, particularly the
low, low-moderate, and gap groups
4. In establishing the boundaries of the districts in each county, the commission shall
give consideration to the general plan of the county in which the land is located
(18)
The Hawaii State Plan is a guide for future long-range development. It identifies the
goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the State; allocates limited resources;
improves coordination among federal, state, and county agencies; and establishes a
system for integrating all major state and county activities. The extent to which the
HELCO site conforms with the Hawaii State Plan and its related functional Plans and the
extent to which the project conforms with the provisions of the County General Plan are
discussed in preceding sections of this report.
Site investigations and reconnaissance as well as consultation with the applicable
agencies revealed no significant natural resources, habitats, cultural, or historic resources
at the project site. The generating station has not and will not have a significant adverse
impact on any environmental resources.
The reclassification of the site to the Urban district will not entail the removal of agricultural
land from active production.
HELCO's current full- and part-time staffing for the Puna Generating Station consists of
three shifts with two employees per shift. Other HELCO staff visits the site, as required
by specific tasks. The production of electricity provided by the Puna Generating Station will
support the continued economic expansion of the Island of Hawaii and provide the necessary
energy to support affordable housing programs as they are developed.
HELCO does not require expenditures by either the State of Hawaii or the County of Hawaii.
HELCO is seeking to rezone the site to the County's general industrial district (MG), with
a minimum lot size of 10 acres (MG-l0a). The County's general industrial district allows
uses that are consistent with the power generating use established at the Puna Generating
Station. HELCO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related
ancillary improvements. (These are currently the use permitted by Special Permit No.
686 approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on November 15, 1988.)
6. County General Plan Designation
A letter dated February 3, 1997, from the County Planning Director confirms "that
HELCO's Puna Generating Station is located within the area designated as
`Industrial' by the General Plan Land Use Pattern Guide (LUPAG) Map."
HELCO's request for both an amendment of the State Land Use Boundary to the Urban
District, and the request for an amendment of the County's zoning designation to general
industrial conforms with the County General Plan LUPAG map designation for the site
and applicable sections of the General Plan.
7. County Zoning
The site is currently designated in the County's agricultural zoning district, and is zoned
A-20.
(19)
HELLO is seeking to rezone the site to the County's general industrial district (MG), with
a minimum lot size of 10 acres (MG-l0a). The County's general industrial district allows
uses that are consistent with the power generating use established at the Puna Generating
Station. HELLO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related
ancillary improvements. (These aze currently the use permitted by Special Permit No.
686 approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on-November 15, 1988.)
The uses permitted in the County's general industrial district do not violate the standards
for the Urban District of the State Land Use Boundaries as set forth in HRS 205-2.
The HELLO site is slightly over 10 acres in size. Under the current and the requested
zoning, HELLO will not be able to subdivide the site.
8. Puna District Community Development Plan
Community Management Associates, Inc. prepared the Puna Community Development
Plan draft in June 1992. The County did not adopt the draft.
9. Special Management Area
The site is not located within the area designated as the Special Management Area of the
County of Hawaii, pursuant to Chapter 205A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, and applicable
administrative rules of the County Planning Commission.
C. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF THE
PROPERTY AND SURROUNDING AREA
Physical Characteristics/Environmental Setting
10. Description of Subject Property, Location, Climate, Topography, Slope, Soils (including
size, shape, existing structures)
The subject property is identified as TMK 1-6-03:93. It encompasses a total of 10.5
acres, and it has, to an extent, a triangulaz shape. The HELLO site is located at Keaau in
the Puna District, County of Hawaii. The primary access to the Puna Generating Station
site is from Mamalahoa Highway by Keaau Road.
The site is located neaz the 300-foot elevation. The site is generally level with no
significant grade or on-site undulations. The mean annual rainfall in the area ranges
between 125 to 175 inches.
Prior to HELLO acquiring the subject site, it was extensively disturbed by activity related
[o on-site grading and fill, construction, vehicular traffic, and sugar mill and related
operations.
(20)
HELCO owned structures and improvements on the site are related to electrical
generation and distribution. In addition to HELCO's structures, the County Water
Department also has two water wells, a chlorinator, storage and pump facilities, and 10-
inch diameter service lines.
11. Lava Flow Hazard Zone
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has established volcanic hazard zones for
the Island of Hawaii for long-term planning purposes. The lava flow hazard zone
designations are based on the percentage of the potential flow area that has been covered
by lava flows during specific time periods, the frequency of past eruptive events, and the
assumption that the rate of current volcanic activity will continue for the next several
decades. Zone 1 reflects the greatest volcanic hazard and Zone 9, the lowest. The Puna
Generating Station is located within Lava Flow Hazard Zone 3, which is also the zone
designation applicable to Hilo.
The entire Island of Hawaii is susceptible to earthquakes originating in fault zones under
and adjacent to the island. The County Building Code designates the entire Island of
Hawaii as being within the Earthquake Zone 3 (based on a scale of zones with increasing
risk from 0 to 4, due to seismic occurrence and danger). The Zone 3 designation requires
that structural design requirements be met in conjunction with the design and construction
of any structure.
12. Distance from Coastline
The site is over 3 miles from the nearest coastline.
13. Agricultural Lands of Importance in the State of Hawaii (ALISH) Designation
Consultation with the State Department of Agriculture indicates that the Agricultural
Lands of Importance to the State of Hawaii (ALISH) system do not have an ALISH rating
for the site on map H-66, dated January 1977.
14. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Services Soil
Service Report Soil Type
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conservation Service Soil
Survey Report classifies the soils in the vicinity of the site as being in the Olaa series, and
specifically the Olaa Silty Clay Loam (OaC). This series is characterized by moderately
deep, moderately fine soil. Permeability is rapid, runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard
slight.
15. Land Study Bureau Soil Rating
Consultation with the State Department of Agriculture indicates that the Land Study
Bureau Detailed Land Classification, Island of Hawaii (November 1965, map 654)
indicates that the site has a "U" or urban use rating, reflecting the industrial use of the
(21)
area. Former sugazcane lands surrounding the former Puna mill site have an overall
productive rating of "C" indicating fair productivity potential for most crops.
16. Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIltM) Designation
The United States Army Corps of Engineers' Flood Insurance Rate Man (FIItM)
designates the site as "Zone C." Zone C is an area characterized with minimal flooding.
17. Existing Drainage Ways or Improvements
A culvert adjacent to the road serving the site drains into a drainage ditch parallel to the
road. Standazd on-site drainage improvements would accommodate any future
intensification of the use of the site. HELCO will comply with all applicable regulations
governing drainage.
18. Air/Noise/Groundwater/Water Quality
a. Air Quality
HELCO Generating Station is in compliance with all applicable federal and state
regulations related to air quality. Appendix C is a report titled "Puna Generating Station,
Air Quality Impacts," prepared by Jim Clary and Associates.
b. Noise
Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) personnel measured background ambient noise
levels at the Puna Generating Station. HECO's measurements indicate that the Puna
Generating Station is in compliance with the State DOH 70 dBA standazd at the property
lines.
Title 11, Chapter 46 Community Noise Control, adopted by the State Department of
Health (DOH) in September 1996. On the Island of Hawaii, the DOH regulates noise
from on-site activities. State DOH noise regulations are expressed in maximum
allowable property line noise limits for areas zoned preservation residential,
apartmenUcommercial, and agricultural/industrial. The noise limits established for these
zoning classes aze shown in Table Two.
These noise limits cannot be exceeded for more than 2 minutes in any 20-minute time
period. Because [he project site and surrounding areas aze located on lands zoned for
agricultural use, the DOH noise limits are 70 dBA for both the daytime and nighttime
periods.
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Table Two
Maximum Permissible Sound Levels in Decibels (dBA)
Zoning
Class A Class B Class C
Residential and Apartment, Hotel, Agriculture,
Time Preservation and Business Industrial
Daytime (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) 55 60 70
Nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.mJ 45 50 70
Notes:
a) Standards shall apply [o [he following excessive noise sources: stationary noise sources and
equipment related [o construction, agriculture, and industrial activities.
b) Maximum permissible sound levels shall apply to any excessive noise source emanating within
the specified zoning district, and a[ any point a[ or beyond the property line of [he premises.
c) Noise levels shall not exceed the allowable levels for more than 10 percent of the time (Lio)
within any 20-minute period, except by permit or variance issued under HAR 11-46-7 and 11-
46-8.
d) The allowable noise for impulsive sound shall be 10 dBA above the values in [his table.
Hawaii Administrative Rules, Title 1 Chapter 46
Construction noise also falls under permitted activities that can exceed the levels shown
in Table Two for a specified period of time. There aze, however, permit restrictions for
construction activities. These are:
• No construction activities that produce noise levels in excess of the values in
Table Two at or beyond the property line are allowed before 7 a.m. or after 6 p.m.,
Monday through Friday.
• No construction activities that produce noise levels in e,ccess of the permissible
sound levels shown in Table Two at or beyond the property line are allowed for
the hours before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. on Saturdays.
• No construction activities that exceed the noise levels specified in Table Two aze
allowed on Sundays and on holidays.
c. Groundwater
HECO environmental department personnel support HELCO in matters related to federal
and state regulation related to groundwater. FiECO indicates that the HELCO Generating
Station is in compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations related to
groundwater.
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The Puna Generating Station is situated over the Keaau Aquifer System. The Hilo-Keaau
region is underlain by relatively young lava flows, mostly less than 10,000 years old, from
Mauna Loa. Regionally, the lavas are highly permeable, and large volumes of
groundwater under low gradients pass through them. At the Puna Generating Station, all
data indicators suggest that groundwater is pazabasal, and that the saturated aquifer is
bounded below by an aquitard, which is probably an ash bed. Parabasal groundwater is
hydraulically connected to the basal Tens but rests on a low permeability stratum rather
than seawater. The estimated boundary between basal and pazabasal ground water lies
about 1.3 miles east of [he Puna Generating Plant and passes through Pazadise Pazk.
Parabasal groundwater is hydraulically connected [o the basal lens but rests on a low
permeability stratum rather than seawater. The HELCO and DWS wells at the Puna
Generating Station have never displayed salinity of more than 10 parts per million.
(Source: Unpublished report tilted "Puna Water Resources Investigations and
Permitting..." Mink and Yuen, Inc., September 1996.)
The State Water Resources Protection Plan (Volume II Appendix, 1990, by G.A.L. Yuen
and Associates) indicates that over the 8 miles between Hilo and the contact of Mauna
Loan and Kilauea lavas near the Puna Power Plant, approximately 1,700 million gallons
per day (mgd) of fresh groundwater flow either in a seawazd direction or southwazd into
the Kilauea Aquifer Sector. The Water Resource Protection Plan indicates that for the
Hilo Aquifer System, rechazge is 793 mgd and for the Keaau Aquifer System, it is 898
mgd. Estimates by Takasaki indicate that 1,000 mgd moves southward into the Kilauea
Sector, leaving 700 mgd to dischazge from Mauna Loa lavas along the coast.
The Groundwater Protection Plan indicates that the sustainable yields for the Hilo
Aquifer System and the Keaau Aquifer System are 347 and 393 mgd, respectively.
(Source: Ibid., Mink and Yuen, Inc., September 1996.) Data available from various
published and public sources indicates that the current draw from the Keaau Aquifer is
less then 20 mgd. Data from the State Commission on Water Resource Management
indicates that the capacity of existing wells in the aquifer total 27 mgd.
HELCO and the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply (DWS) have separate
groundwater wells on the Puna Generating Station site. The following describes the
HELCO and DWS wells and ancillary system components.
• HELCO
Information provided by HELCO indicates that the three HELCO wells on the
generating station site use an average of 12.1 million gallons per day (mdg). HELCO
uses groundwater for cooling water pumps, to cool fans, generators, the existing
combustion turbine, compressors, pumps, air heater wash, various fire hoses on each
floor, and all the wash-down and cooling needs.
HELCO provides water to the adjacent papaya operation, which was previously
owned by AMFAC, prior owner of the HELCO site. The papaya operation also uses
DWS water service provided through a meter located on the generating station site.
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During periods when HELCO's steam plant is not operating and/or when HELCO
shuts down the three deep wells, the papaya operation provides HELCO county water
to supply the various cooling water pumps and to meet HELCO's other water needs at
the Puna Generating Station.
Information provided by HELCO also indicates that use of groundwater by the Puna
Generating Station has no adverse affect or impact on the underlying aquifer.
Information provided by HELCO indicates that HELCO currently complies with and
in the future will continue to comply with all state and federal requirements applicable
to the use of groundwater.
• DWS
DWS has two wells on the generating station site, Olaa wells A and B. In addition,
DWS has a chlorinator station and pipeline easements on the site.
Water from Olaa wells A and B and water from a third DWS well, Olaa C (located a[
a site up gradient of the generating station near the former dispensary camp) is
providing water to DWS customers in the Keaau-Mountain service azea. This system
has a linear service area essentially following the alignment of the Volcano Highway
from Keaau to Glenwood, with a side line providing service to Paradise Drive. Until
Olaa well C was completed, water from Olaa wells A and B was pumped through a
series of booster pumps and storage tanks to the uppermost service azea in Glenwood.
DWS continues to have the capability of pumping water up gradient from Olaa wells
A and B, but seeks to minimize this in order to reduce system pumping costs.
Since the Olaa well C is up gradient of wells A and B, it is the primary source of
water for the DWS service area. The most current data submitted to the State
Commission on Water Resource Management, for the month of December 1997,
indicates that DWS Olaa wells A and B pumped a combined total of 2.5 million
gallons per month. Olaa C well pumped 26.4 million gallons in the same month.
d. Water Quality
As noted previously, the HELCO and DWS wells at the Puna Generating Station have
never displayed salinity of more than 10 parts per million. (Source: Unpublished reFort
tilted "Puna Water Resources Investigations and Permitting..." Mink and Yuen, Inc.,
September 1996.) This is attributable to the estimated boundary between basal and
pazabasal ground water being about 1.3 miles east of [he Puna Generating Plant.
Pazabasal groundwater is hydraulically connected to the basal lens but rests on a low
permeability stratum rather than seawater. Consequently, the infiltration of seawater is
minimal.
As discussed in a subsequent section concerning wastewater disposal, HECO
environmental department personnel support HELCO in matters related to federal and
state regulation related to wastewater disposal. HECO indicates that the HELCO
Generating Station is in compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations
(25)
related to wastewater disposal. Information provided by HECO also indicates that
wastewater disposal associated with the Puna Generating Station has no adverse affect or
impact on the underlying aquifer.
Historic Resources:
19. Existing Archaeological, Cultural or Historic Sites on the National Hawaii Register
The HELLO Puna Generating Station site has no archaeological, cultural or historic sites
or structures of historical significance. This is confirmed by correspondence from the
state agency responsible for archaeological, cultural or historic sites and structures.
A letter dated September 21, 1988, signed by William W. Paty, Chairperson, Board of
Land and Natural Resources, commenting on Special Permit Application 88-22 states, in
part:
"Our Department's Historic Sites Section indicates that since this application only
requests continued use of the existing plant facilities, there will be "no effect" on
significant historic sites."
In March 1997, CH2M HILL requested a written determination from the Historic
Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources that the State
Land Use amendment and County rezoning change will have no effect on any significant
sites on HELCO's property. A letter dated April 14, 1997, signed by Don Hibbard,
Administrator, State Historic Preservation Division, states, in part:
"Because the area has been so extensively disturbed we believe that there are no
significant historic sites remaining on the subject property. We thus believe that the
proposed rezoning and boundary designation changes will have "no effect" on historic
sites."
Through the early-1980s for an unknown period of time, sugar was extensively cultivated
in the area surrounding the HELLO Generating Station site and the subject site was used
for sugar milling. Prior to, during the establishment of the aforementioned uses and since
the establishment of HELCO's generating and related uses in 1988, there are no known
traditional gathering activities and/or cultural practices as identified by Article XII,
Section 7 of the Hawaii State Constitution affecting the subject property.
Natural Resources:
20. Existing Flora/Faunal Resources (any native or exotic plants, any listed or candidate
endangered species)
a. Flora
The Puna Generating Station site has been used for sugar milling for almost 100 years,
and for power generation for a decade, and has been extensively disturbed. The site does
(26)
not have any native, listed or candidate endangered flora. Within the fenced portion of
the Puna Generating Station, vegetation is composed of planted landscaping. A mixed
grass fringe is found on the west, north, and east sides of the site. The mixed grasses are
all introduced such as California, molasses, and elephant grasses; a mix of weedy species;
and some garden escapees such as avocado.
b. Fauna
CH2M HILL consulted with the United States Department of the Interior, Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS), Pacific Islands Ecoregion. An April 24, 1998 letter from a
representative of indicate that the Hawaiian hawk, `Io (Buteo solitarius), and the
Hawaiian hoary bat, Ope`ape`a (Lasiurus cinereus semorus), have been sighted in the
proximity of the Puna Generating Station. The letter goes on to state: "No significant
adverse impact to fish and wildlife resource are expected to result from the proposed
zoning change."
Based on on-site observations, the only known rare or endangered native avian resource
that has been identified is native migratory specie, the Hawaiian Stilts (Himanropus
mexicanus knudseni), observed on the edge of a small puddle adjacent to the main paved
driveway into the generating station. The puddle is not a habitat area for the Hawaiian
Stilts. This species is listed as endangered by the USFWS and by the State of Hawaii
Division of Forestry and Wildlife.
Based on on-site observations, the only known rare or endangered native mammalian
resource that has been identified at the generating site is the Hawaiian hoary bat,
Ope'ape'a (Lasiurus cinereus semotus). This species is listed as endangered by USFWS
and by the State of Hawaii, DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife. At night, the bats
feed on flying insects attracted by night lighting. The generating station site and
structures are not a habitat area for the bat.
21. Scenic or Coastal Resources
There are no scenic or coastal resources affected by the HELCO site. The Natural Beauty
element of the County's General Plan identifies sites or areas that are considered to be a
scenic resource. The HELCO site and immediately surrounding area are not listed as a
scenic site. The site is over three (3) miles from the nearest coastline, and does not affect
coastal resources.
Social-Economic Characteristics:
22. Socia] Settlement Pattern for the Area
Keaau is located at the junction of two major highways in Puna, and is thus centrally
located. A central commercial area with surrounding "pockets" containing concentrations
of people characterizes Keaau's settlement pattern. The area immediately surrounding the
HELCO site has a mix of urban types of land uses in the vicinity of the site. The HELCO
(2~)
site and surrounding area's settlement pattern is historically and functionally an extension
of the Keaau Town center's urban area.
The state has approved urban land use reclassifications in the immediate vicinity of
Keaau. Approximately 660 acres of land were included in a 1994-land use boundary
amendment. With subsequent county rezoning, the amendment will lead to an expansion
of Keaau village over time, as infrastructure is developed and as the market demand for
urban uses materializes. The expansion includes a pazcel north of Keaau is on the
western side of the Mamalahoa Highway, on the opposite side of the highway from the
HELCO site. (The reclassification of the 600 acres of land involves land owned by W. H.
Shipman, Limited. The 600 acres is a portion of approximately 2,000 acres in and azound
Keaau, which Shipman has planned as part of the "Conceptual Keaau Development
Plan." Shipman proposes to develop the 2,000 acres over a period of 20 or more years.)
As discussed in section 25, "Land Use," several urban uses have been established in the
immediate vicinity of the Puna Generating Station. The County Planning Commission has
approved Special Permits for several pazcels in the vicinity of the HELCO site. The
Special Permits allow urban type uses that include a flower packing facility, a papaya
packing facility, and a church school. Sites with urban uses in some proximity to the
HELCO also include astate-assisted housing project, permitted under statutory pre-
exemptions of land use requirements, and a former sugar plantation housing subdivision.
Section 25 also discusses TMK 1:6:03:5, a pazcel immediately adjacent to the Puna
Generating Station. In 1997, the County approved redesignation of a 14.3 acre portion of
TMK 1:6:03:5 to the Urban District and concurrently rezoned the aforementioned area to
alight industrial (ML) zoning district designation. Subsequent to the 1997 rezoning
approval, the property owner submitted a second rezoning application, now pending final
County Council action. The pending rezoning seeks to change the ML zoning district
designation to the "Industrial-Commercial Mixed" (MCX) district designation. The
MCX zoning district was created in late-1996 and would allow a mix of commercial and
light industrial uses.
Urbanization of the HELCO Puna Generating station will not contribute to scattered spot
urban development, as it is in the midst of azeas with urban type uses, and is proximal to
existing urban facilities.
23. Economic Resources of the Area
Historically, the Puna District has had agricultural activities as the primary economic
activity. Through the 1980s, sugar provided significant employment in the district. With
the termination of sugaz cultivation, diversified agriculture has been the principal primary
economic activity located in the district.
Industrial activities in the Puna District aze limited, and include processing of agricultural
products, electric power production, and activities located at the Shipman Industrial Pazk.
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Tourism in the Puna District is limited, with the principal tourist destination being the
Volcanoes National Park.
The employed residents of the towns and subdivisions in the Puna District generally work
in Hilo. The largest of these [owns is Keaau, followed by Pahoa. Both of these towns
serve as commercial and service centers for residents of the Puna District.
24. Land Values
The Puna District's residential lands offer some of [he lowest cost house lots in the state.
The low cost of residential lots is attributable to the supply of unimproved residential lots
in the Puna District exceeding the demand for undeveloped lots. The excess of supply
relative to demand keeps the price of unimproved lots depressed.
Commercial and industrial land values aze typically lower in the Puna District than in
Hilo. This is attributable to Hilo having a larger population base and being closer to
transportation facilities, such as the Hilo airport and harbor.
Since the Puna Generating Station is apre-existing facility, any impact that the generating
station would have on surrounding land values would have already occurred and be
reflected in current property values.
HELCO does not contemplate selling the Puna Generating site at any time in the
foreseeable future.
Surrounding lands:
25. Land Use
Keaau is located at the junction of two major highways in Puna, and is thus centrally
located. A central commercial area with surrounding "pockets" containing concentrations
of people chazacterizes Keaau's settlement pattern.
The area immediately surrounding the HELCO site has a mix of urban types of land uses
in the vicinity of the site. The HELCO site and surrounding area's settlement pattern is
historically and functionally an extension of the Keaau Town center's urban area.
A property immediately adjacent to the HELCO site, identified by TMK 1:6:03:5, was
subject of County land use approvals in 1997. A County land use boundary amendment,
approved in 1997, reclassified a 14.3 acre portion of TMK 1:6:03:5 to the state Urban
District boundary, with the rest of the parcel remaining in the state Agricultural District.
TMK 1:6:03:5 was concurrently rezoned in 1997 to a three-acre minimum lot size
agricultural zoning designation, with the Urban portion of the property rezoned to a three-
acre minimum lot size limited industrial district zoning designation. Subsequent to [he
1997 rezoning approval, the property owner submitted a second rezoning application to
reclassify the property to two new zoning district designation that were created pursuant
to County's revised zoning ordinance enacted December 7, 1996. The second rezoning
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request, currently pending County Council action, seeks to reclassify the portion of the
TMK 1:6:03:5 in the state's Agricultural District to the County's "Family Agricultural"
(FA) zoning district, with a minimum lot size of three acres. The 1998 rezoning requests
that the remaining 14.3 acres in the state's Urban District be reclassified to the County's
"Industrial-Commercial Mixed" (MCX) district designation, with a minimum lot size of
20,000 square feet. The FA zoning district is an agricultural zoning district designation,
and the MCX zoning district allows a mix of commercial and light industrial uses.
The County Planning Commission has also approved Special Permits for several other
parcels in the vicinity of the HELCO site. The Special Permits allow urban type uses that
include a flower packing facility, a papaya packing facility, and a church school.
Sites in some proximity to the HELCO with urban uses also include astate-assisted
housing project, permitted under statutory pre-exemptions of land use requirements, and a
former sugar plantation housing subdivision.
26. Zoning
The site HELCO is currently designated in the County's agricultural zoning district. The
site is currently zoned A-20.
HELCO is seeking to rezone the site to the County's general industrial district (MG), with
a minimum lot size of 10 acres (MG-l0a). HELCO wants to rezone the site from an
agricultural zoning designation to the County's general industrial designation, as the
current use of the site is consistent with the uses permitted under the general industrial
zoning district designation.
HELCO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related ancillary
improvements. (These are currently the use permitted by Special Permit No. 686
approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on November 15, 1988.)
D. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES
27. Description of Access
The primary access to the Puna Generating Station site is from Mamalahoa Highway via
Keaau Road. Mamalahoa Highway (State Route 11, elsewhere referred to as Route 19
and 190 and also known as Hawaii Belt Road) is a major arterial serving most of the
Island of Hawaii. Wi[hin the vicinity of the HELCO site, Mamalahoa Highway is afour-
lane highway that runs generally in the north-south direction. Keaau Road is a private
road providing access from Old Volcano Road to the existing HELCO Generating
Station. The two-lane Old Volcano Road runs parallel and east of Mamalahoa Highway.
Keaau Road crosses Old Volcano Road.
(30)
28. Availability of Water
Water is available at the HELCO Puna Generating Station site. Both HELCO and the
Hawaii County Department of Water Supply (DWS) have separate groundwater wells on
the site. Section 18-c, concerning "groundwater," contains an extensive discussion on the
topic.
29. Wastewater Disposal
HECO environmental department personnel also support HELCO in matters related to
federal and state regulation related to wastewater disposal. HECO indicates that the
HELCO Generating Station is in compliance with all applicable federal and state
regulations related to wastewater disposal. Information provided by HECO also indicates
that wastewater disposal associated with the Puna Generating Station has no adverse
affect or impact on the underlying aquifer.
Information provided by HECO indicates that the Puna Generating Station has four
existing wastewater flows, described below.
• Non-contact condenser cooling water, discharged from the condenser comprises
approximately 467,000 gallons per hour (gph). This water is discharged into a re-
injection well located off-site, and is permitted by underground injection control
(UIC) permit No. LTI-I 1438.
• Auxiliary cooling water discharge comprises approximately 9,300 gallons per
hour (gph). Currently, this water is disposed into aditch/culvert and discharged
off-site. HELCO indicates it is considering a plan to isolate and recycle (i.e., re-
circulate) all flows out of the existing auxiliary cooling water pumps through a
service water cooler.
• Currently, sanitary wastewater cesspool discharge comprises approximately 30
gph.
• Industrial wastewater discharge varies. Industrial wastewater receives primary
treatment at the Puna Generating Station, and is [hen trucked to the Hill
Generating Station in Hilo. It is further treated at the Hill Station and discharged
to the Hill facility's injection wells, pursuant to existing UIC permits iJII 1241
and UH 1242.
30. Solid and Hazardous Wastes
The County does not provide solid waste pickup service. The County of Hawaii has a
transfer station in the vicinity of Keaau. The Hilo Landfill will be replaced by the West
Hawaii landfill at Puu Anahulu. Solid waste generated by HELCO at the Puna
Generating station is recycled to the extent practicable, with the remainder being disposed
of at the County landfill. HELCO Generating Station is in compliance with all applicable
federal and state regulations related to the disposal of solid waste.
(31)
Waste identified as hazardous is disposed of in accordance with federal and state regulatory
requirements. Currently, hazazdous waste from the Island of Hawaii is shipped to the U.S.
mainland for disposal.
31. Police and Fire Protection
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for police and fire protection. Stations
located in both Keaau and Hilo provide county police and fire protection services.
HELCO personnel aze also trained for emergency situations including fires and first aid.
As noted elsewhere, a chain link fence surrounds the HELCO site.
32. Schools
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for schools. The State Department of
Education is currently constructing separate elementary and high schools in the
immediate vicinity of Keaau.
33. Parks
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for pazk space. The County's Shipman
Park currently serves the azea. Either the development of separate park sites or expansion
of the existing Shipman Park will accompany expansion of Keaau.
34. Other Utilities and Services (telephone/electricity)
The Puna Generating Station is an essential element of HELCO's electrical power
generation capacity for Hawaii Island customers. HELCO provides electrical service to
the Puna Generating Station site.
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for telephone service. GTE Hawaiian
Telephone serves the HELCO site and surrounding azea from its Keaau station.
E. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND ANALYSIS
35. Relationship Between Local Short Term Uses of Environment and Maintenance and
Enhancement of Long Term Productivity
Short-term uses of the biophysical components of the environment include direct
construction-related disturbances and direct impacts associated with an increase in
activity that occurs in less than 5 years. Long-term uses of the environment include those
impacts occurring over a period of more than 5 yeazs, including permanent resource loss.
No short-term changes are anticipated at the HELCO Puna Generating Station that will
impact components of the environment.
Through the year 2017, no long-term changes are anticipated at the HELCO Puna
Generating Station that will impact components of the environment.
(32)
Beyond the year 2017, and under unforeseen circumstances prior to the year 2017, the
Puna Generating Station's generating capacity may be expanded. One impact associated
with possible future expansion of the generating capacity is the change in the visual
environment. A second impacts associated with any future expansion are related to air
emissions produced by the facility decreasing the criteria pollutant increments available
for future new sources under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD)
regulations.
Electrical energy is a resource that has become an indispensable part of life. Electric
utility companies have the responsibility of providing reliable electric service at a
reasonable cost to the consumer. Every effort should be made to conserve electricity, and
new sources of energy production also need to be developed. As it becomes older,
equipment runs less efficiently, uses more natural resources, and results in higher costs to
the user. On the Island of Hawaii, population increases and the planned retirement of
older equipment are creating the need for additional electrical generating capacity.
The population of the Island of Hawaii has grown dramatically over the last two decades.
Overall population and economic growth on the Island of Hawaii is expected to continue
in the foreseeable future.
36. Mitigate Measures Proposed to Avoid, Minimize, Rectify or Reduce Impact
No development is currently planned or proposed in conjunction with the requested
changes in the state and County land use designations. Since no development is currently
planned or proposed, there are no impacts to reduce, minimize and rectify. Therefore, no
mitigation measures are proposed.
37. Alternatives to the Proposed Development
No development is currently planned or proposed in conjunction with the requested
changes in the state and County land use designations. Since no development is cwrently
planned or proposed, alternatives are not relevant.
38. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Natural Resources Involved if Proposed
Action Implemented
Irreversible and irretrievable resource commitments are related to the use of
nonrenewable resources and the effects that use of these resources will have on future
generations. Irreversible effects primarily result from use or destruction of a specific
resource (for example, energy and minerals) that cannot be replaced within a reasonable
time frame. Lretrievable resource commitments involve the loss in value of an affected
resource that cannot be restored as a result of the action (for example, extinction of a
threatened or endangered species).
The Puna Generating Station is an existing use on a site that has been actively used for
power production over the past decade, and for sugar milling prior to that. No new
development is currently planned or proposed in conjunction with the requested changes
(33)
in the state and County land use designations. Since the HELCO Puna Generating Station
is an existing use and development, and no new use or development is currently planned
or proposed, there will not be any additional irreversible and irretrievable commitment of
natural and fiscal resources.
HELCO's decision to continue the use of diesel fuel, rather than other fuel sources, is
based on the economics of providing the electricity. HELCO is committed to the
development of feasible, cost-effective alternative fuels and power sources and increased
conservation measures to lessen dependency on imported fossil fuels.
F. AGENCIES COMMENTS
39. Agency Comments
Agency comments pertaining to the proposed State Land Use Boundary amendment and
rezoning are attached as Appendix D. The following identifies the agencies that provided
comments.
a. United States Department of the Interior, by letter dated April 24, 1998.
b. State Department of Agriculture, by facsimile transmittal dated June 4, 1998.
c. State Department of Budget and Finance, Hosing Finance and Development
Corporation, by letter dated April 1, 1998.
d. State Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, by letter dated
Apri127, 1998.
e. State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Land Management, by
letter dated Apri120, 1998.
f. State Department of Land and Natural Resources, State Historic Preservation
Division, by letter dated April 14, 1997, and by a prior letter dated September 21,
1988.
g. State Department of Health, Clean Air Branch, by letter dated April 3, 1998.
h. Stale Department of Transpurtation by letter dated April 6, 1998.
i. County of Hawaii, Department of Public Works, by letter dated April 16, 1998.
j. County of Hawaii, Planning Department, by letter dated February 3, 1997.
k. County of Hawaii, Department of Research and Development, letter dated April 7,
1998.
1. County of Hawaii, Department of Water Supply, letter dated May 26, 1998.
(34)
Appendix A
Metes and Bounds Description of Subject Property
Prepared by Island Survey, Inc. May 15, 1988
DESCRIPTION
LOT 1
Being a Consolidation of Exception 7-B, Exception 7-A-2-A,
Lot 3-C, Ld. Ct. App. 1689 and Lot 34-C, Ld. Ct. Appl 1053 and
LOT2
Being a Consolidation of Exception 7-A-1,
Being a Portion of R.P. 7223, L.C. Aw. 8559-B:16 to Wm. C. Lunalilo
with Lot 3-D, Ld. Ct. App. 1689 and Lot 34-B, Lot 34-C, Ld. Ct. App. 1053
Situated at Keaau, Puna, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Beginning at the southwest comer of this parcel of land, the northwest corner of
Exception 7-A-2 and on the east side of Lot 27, Land Court Application 1053, the
coordinates of said point of beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation
Station "OLAA" being 11,305.27 feet North and 8,061.53 feet East and running by
azimuths measured clockwise from True South:
1. 167° 44' 958.97 feet along Lot 27, Land Court Application 1053;
2. 297° 50' 380.80 feet along Lot 3-E, Land Court Application 1689;
3. Thence along Lots 3-E and 3-D, Land Court Application 1689, along a curve to the
left having a radius of 1167.65 feet, the chord azimuth and
distance being:
294° 07' 156.57 feet;
4. 290° 24' 160.33 feet along Lots 3-E and 3-D, Land Court Applicationl689
and Lots 34-A and 34-B, Land Court Application 1053;
5. Thence along Lots 34-A and 34-B, Land Court Application 1053, along a curve to
the right having a radius of 430.00 feet, the chord azimuth
and distance being:
304° 07' 55.6" 204.15 feet;
6. Thence along Lots 34-E and 34-C, Land Court Application 1053, along a curve to
the right having a radius of 430.00 feet, the chord azimuth
and distance being:
330° 33' 45.6" 189.05 feet;
7. 343° 15' 40" 1.68 feet Lots 34-E and 34-C, Land Court Application 1053;
® ISLANDSURVEY~ INC. r.o.eoxdzis
SURVEYORS HILO. HAWAII 9R1J0
Lots 1 and 2
8. 82° 31' ]49.55 feet along Lots 34-B & 34-D, Land Court Application
1053, Lots 3-C & 3-B, Land Court Application 1689 and
Lot 3;
9. 352° 40' 145.13 feet along Lot 3;
10. 47° 58' 140.26 feet along Lot 3;
Thence along Pump Site for the next eight (8) courses, the
azimuths and distances between points being:
11. 82° 22' 18.00 feet;
12. 352° 22' 10.00 feet;
13. 82° 22' 48.00 feet;
14. 352° 22' 24.00 feet;
15. 262° 22' 16.00 feet;
16. 201° 00' 4.56 feet;
17. 262° 22' 4.82 feet;
18. 352° 22' 10.00 feet;
19. 82° 22' 421.04 feet along Lot 3 to the point of beginning and
containing a Gross Area of 10.533 acres and a Net Area of
10.501 acres after deducting and excluding 0.032 acre of
Exclusion 1 described as follows:.
EXCLUSION 1 (Chlorinator Site)
Beginning at the southeast comer of this parcel of land, the coordinates of said point of
beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 11,387.20
feet North and 8,143.98 feet East and running by azimuths measured clockwise from True
South:
-2-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. P.O. BOX 4215
SURVEYORS HILO, HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
1. 80° 49' 40.00 feet;
2. 170° 49' 35.00 feet along Easement A-l;
3. 260° 49' 40.00 feet along Easement A-1;
4. 350° 49' 35.00 feet along Easement A-1 to the point of beginning and
containing an area of 0.032 acre.
EXCEPTING AND Reserving, However the following Easements:
EASEMENT A-1 for waterline purposes in favor of the Department of Water Supply,
County of Hawaii and is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the northwest corner of this parcel of land, on the southwest side of Lot 3,
Land Court Application 1689, the coordinates of said point of beginning referred to
Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 12,242.35 feet North and
7,857.79 feet East and running by azimuths measured clockwise from True South:
1. 297° 50' 19.61 feet;
2. 347° 44' 807.48 feet;
3. 278° 00' 133.58 feet;
4. 261° 35' 271.72 feet;
5. 310° 00' 62.12 feet;
6. 352° 22' 31.47 feet partly along Exclusion 2;
7. 82° 22' 65.00 feet partly along Exclusion 2;
8. 167° 00' 57.03 feet;
9. 81° 35' 283.37 feet;
]0. 170° 49' 22.37 feet along Exclusion 1;
-3-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. P.o.soxazrs
SURVEYORS HILO. HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
11. 80° 49' 40.00 feet along Exclusion 1;
12. 350° 49' 21.84 feet along Exclusion 1;.
13. 81 ° 3 5' 43.83 feet;
14. 347° 44' 81.99 feet;
15. 92° 22' 15.05 feet;
16. 167° 44' 958.97 feet along Lot 27 of Land Court Application 1053 to the
point of beginning and containing an area of 27,543 square
feet or. 0.632 acre.
EASEMENT D for Cold Waterline Purposes in favor of Puna Sugar Company, Limited
and is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the southerly corner of this parcel of.land, on the northerly side of Exclusion
2 (Pump Site), the coordinates of said point of beginning refereed to Government Survey
Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 11,406.56 feet North and 8,516.15 feet East and
running by azimuths measured clockwise from True South:
1. 82° 22' 18.00 feet along Exclusion 2;
2. 352° 22' 10.00 feet along Exclusion 2;
3. 82° 22' 27.00 feet along Exclusion 2;
4. 171° 31' 31.03 feet;
5. 260° 54' 30" 68.58 feet;
6. 171° 43' 106.59 feet;
7. 81° 43' 6.21 feet;
8. 171 ° 43' 14.28 feet; ,
-4-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. v.o.eoxazis
SURVEYORS HILO, HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
9. 81 ° 43' 10.01 feet;
]0. 172° 23' 30" 306.76 feet;
11. 101° 07' 90.53 feet to the northeast corner offiasement E;
12. 172° 37' 10.55 feet along the east side of Easement F;
13. 281° 07' 99.50 feet;
14. 352° 31' 304.33 feet;
15. 261° 43' 18.22 feet;
16. 351° 43' 131.10 feet;
17. 47° 58' 40.11 feet to the point of beginning and containing an area 6,595
square feet or 0.151 acre.
EASEMENT E for Hot Waterline Purposes in favor of Puna Sugar Company, Limited and
is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the southeast comer of this parcel of land, the coordinates of said point of
beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 11,476.65
feet North and 8,518.62 feet East and running by azimuths measured clockwise from True
South:
1. 82° 24' 31.95 feet;
2. 169° 12' 4.08 feet;
3. 81° 41' 45.43 feet;
4. 172° 28' 21.00 feet;
5. 81° 54' 12.53 feet;
6. 171° 41' 51.68 feet;
-5-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. ao.eoxazrs
SURVEYORS HILO, HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
7. 261° 40' 4.70 feet;
8. 171° 40' 30.89 feet;
9. 237° 24' 5.64 feet;
10. 171° 36' 30" 125.89 feet;
11.259° 20' 7.50 feet;
12. 171° 52' 37.43 feet;
13. 81° 06' 26.68 feet;
14. 172° 37' 140.99 feet to the south side of Easement F;
15. 281° 07' 10.55 feet aiong the south side of Easement F;
16.352° 37' 127.37 feet;
17. 261° 06' 26.54 feet;
18. 351° 52' 57.13 feet;
19. 79° 20' 7.46 feet;
20. 351° 36' 30" 122.75 feet;
21. 57° 54' 5.64 feet;
22.351° 40' 34.43 feet;
23. 81° 40' 4.70 feet;
24. 351° 41' 31.72 feet;
25. 261° 54' 12.67 feet;
-6-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. e.o.eoxazis
SURVEYORS NILO, HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
26.352° 28' 20.96 feet;
27. 261° 41' 44.87 feet;
28. 171° 41' 5.72 feet;
29. 261° 45' 22.56 feet;
30. 351° 45' 20.18 feet to the point of beginning and containing an area of
5,574 square feet or 0.138 acre.
EASEMENT F for Cold & Hot Waterline Purposes in favor of Puna Sugar Company,
Limited and is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the southeast comer of this parcel of land, the southwest corner of Easement
D (Cold Waterline), the northeast corner of Easement E (Hot Waterline), the coordinates
of said point of beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA"
being 11,870.95 feet North and 8,373.11 feet East and running by azimuths measured
clockwise from True South:
I . 101° 07' 65.64 feet partly along Easement E;
2. 128° 53' 423.32 feet;
3. 128° 1 106.57 feet;
4. 115° 02' 38.98 feet;
5. 167° 44' 10.85 feet;
6. 297° 50' 66.59 feet;
7. 308° 11' 87.46 feet;
8. 308° 53' 420.90 feet;
-7-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. v.o.soxa2~s
SURVEYORS HILO. HAWAII 9fi720
Lots 1 & 2
9. 281° 07' 59.82 feet;
10. 352° 37' 10.55 feet along the west side of Easement D (Cold Waterline)
to the point of beginning and containing an area of
6,202 square feet or 0.142 acre.
The description for Lots 1 & 2 does not constitute a consolidated lot. Easements A-1, D,
E and F have been compiled from description prepared by Nobuchika Santo dated
May 15, 1988.
Hilo?Hawa98 ~OO~aT T• Sy~99/ ISLAND SURVEY, INC.
~rrrNgcp ` ^
* PR'vrl':RS(CNAL ;1/~1rV/' \\,/1~
IANi+~U+vEYOR ~+C
;X.5785
TMK:1-6-003:093 y ROBERT T. SHIRAI
~1'I'All U5• Licensed Professional
Land Surveyor 5985
-8-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. P.O. BOX 4215
SURVEYORS HIlO. HAWAII 96720
Appendix B
"HELCO's Puna Generation Facility Traffic Assessment."
Prepared by Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc., March 1997
AT/ AUSTIN, TSUTSUMI E ASSOCIATES, INC. avu. ENGwEERS • suRVEYOgs
I/`1 CONTINUING THE ENGINEERING PRACTICE FOUNDED gY H. A R. AU6TIN IN ~g3q
TEO S. KAWAMIGASIiI, P.E.
KENNEfIi K. KIXiOKAWA. P.E #0-97.016
May 11, 1998
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
SubJect: HELCO's Puna Generation Facility
Traffic Assessment
This letter report documents the tindings of the traffic study conducted by Austin, Tsutsumi &
Associates, Inc. (ATA) to Identify the traffic impact of the existing Hawaii Electric Light Company's
(HELLO) Puna generation facility, identified as (TMIq: 1-6-03:93.
HELLO is presently requesting to rezone the site of the Puna generation facility at the County
level from agricultural use to industrial use and at the State level from agricultural use to urban
use. Initially, the Puna Generating Station was developed as an ancillary use with the operation
of the former Puna Sugar Mill; this activity was previously permitted as agricultural activity. The
generated electricity was utilized by sugar operations and employee-residents. With the
cessation of sugar operations, HELLO acquired suffiGentright-of-way and was granted a Special
Permit by the County of Hawaii to continue the generation of power. The Specal Permft was
required since the power generation became the primary use for the site as ft was no longer
assodated wtth agricultural activity. The requested State and County rezonings would better
reflect the actual use of the Puna generation faclifty sfte. .
The site of the existing fadifty is located at the former Puna Sugar MiII. Primary axes to the
sfte is Nom Mamatahoa.Highway via Keaau Road. Flgure 1 shows the general roadway system
in the vidnfty of the proposed expansion site. The existing facility has 37 MW of generating
capacriy: The statfing of the fadlity insists of 3 shifts with 2 employees per shift. The delivery
of diesel fuel is currently 21-49 trips per week. HELLO currently has no expansion plans for the
facilities located at the Puna generating tacility.
pERY TO- OFFICES IN
60. 6UMNEii STREET. 6UITE 521 HONOLULU. HGWgII 96617.503. I HONOLULU. HAWgII
PHOIJE IBO61 53336A6 fq% I6061 526 126 WAILUK U. MgUI, HgWgll
~1~ pU6 erva euaoweens ac
wovCa~.irvc
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill May 11, 1998
Purpose and Scope
The purpose of the study is to analyze the traffic impacts of the existing HELCO facility on
the local roadway system. The following are traffic scenarios which are analyzed in this
study:
• Existing Year 1997 Conditions
• Year 2001 Base Conditions
This study analyzes the two Intersections of Mamalahoa Highway at Keaau Road and Old
Volcano Road at Keaau Road, which are directly affected by the HELCO facility traffic.
EXISTING CONDITIONS
The following is a brief discussion of the existing major roadways in the immediate vicinity
of the expansion site, and the current traffic operating conditions at the two key
intersections.
Mamalahoa Hi hwa -Mamalahoa Highway (State Routes 11, 19 and 190), also known
as Hawaii Beit Road, is a major arterial serving most of the island of Hawaii. Within the
vicinity of the HELCO expansion site, Mamalahoa Highway is a four-lane highway which
runs generally in the north-south direction. North of Keaau Town, Mamalahoa Highway
is a divided highway with a posted speed limit of 55 miles per hour (mph). Within Keaau
Town, Mamalahoa Highway is an undivided, four-lane highway with a reduced speed limit
of 35 mph.
Keaau Road -Keaau Road is a private road providing acx;ess from Old Volcano Road to
the existing Hf3C0 generation fadlity. Between Mamalahoa Highway and Old Volcano
Road (approximately 50 feet), Keaau Road-is maintained by the County: of Hawaii. The
two-lane gravel road also serves a Ifght IndusVfal complex located Just north of the HELCO
tadlriy. Keaau Road Is oonVOiled by stop signs at the Intersections at Old Volcano Road
and Mamalahoa Highway.
Old Volcano Road - Within the general vidnity of the study area, thetwo-lane Old Volcano
Road runs parallel and east of Mamalahoa Highway. North of Keaau Road, the Old
Volcano Road serves a light industrial complex and private properties. South of Keaau
Road, the Old Volcano Road provides access to the residential areas of Keaau Town.
Figure 2 shows the existing geometries at two analyzed intersections.
Weekday AM and PM peak period traffic counts were conducted by ATA at the two
existing analyzed Intersections. Figure 3 shows the existing traffic volumes at the two
-2-
AUSTIN. T6UT6UM1 6 A660CIATE6. INC.
CNIL ENOtlVEER6 EWVEVOR9
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill May ti, 1998
intersections. Manual turning movement counts were conducted during the morning and
evening peak periods on March 19 and 20, 1997.
During the morning AM peak period, the peak direction of traffic flow on Mamalahoa
Highway is in the northbound direction with approximately 2,640 vehicles during the peak
hour and approximately 640 peak hour vehicles in the southbound direction. During the
afternoon PM peak period, the peak direction of flow is in the opposite direction with
approximately 1,800 peak hour vehicles in the southbound direction and approximately
770 peak hour vehicles in the northbound direction.
It was observed that, during the PM peak period, a relatively high number of southbound
vehicles (267 vph) on Mamalahoa Highway turn left onto Keaau Road and then turn right
onto the Old Volcano Road. It is assumed that most of these motorists are bound for the
residential areas of Keaau Town.
Based on the existing traffic count data, the number of vehicles that utilize Keaau Road
serving the HELCO facility area is relatively low. During the AM peak hour, only 46
vehicles per hour (vph) were observed, with 12 vph in the westbound direction and 34 vph
in the eastbound direction. During the PM peak hour, only 33 vph utilize Keaau Road with
27 vph in the westbound direction and 6 vph in the eastbound direction.
Level of service (LOS) is a qualitative measure used to describe the conditions of traffic
flow, ranging from free-flow conditions at LOS A to congested conditions at LOS F. The
1994 (Jiahway C~~dty Manual - Snedal Report 209 method for calculating delays and
corresponding levels of seMce at stop-controlled Intersections was utilized in this study.
Level of service definitions for signalized and stop~ontrolled Intersedions are provided In
Table 1. Figure 3 also shows the levels of service at the two existing intersedions.
Results also showthat, during the AM peak hour, the southbound left
tum movementfrom
Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road is operating at LOS F. Long delays to this particular
movement are mainly due to the high amount of northbound opposing vehldes on
Mamalahoa Highway. The westbound left-tum movement from Keaau Road to
Mamalahoa Highway is also operating at LOS F during the AM peak hour, but this only
affects a small number of vehldes (only one vehicle during the peak hour was observed).
The remaining movements at both Intersections are all operating at acceptable levels of
service (LOS A, B, C or D).
-3-
~T/ AU6TIN. TBUT6UM~ 6 485pCIGTE6. ANC
CNIL ENfiMIEERB fiUpVEY°R6
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill May 11, 1998
Results also show that during the PM peak hour, only the westbound left-turn from Keaau
Road to Mamalahoa Highway is operating at an undesirable level of service (LOS F).
However, similar to the AM peak hour, only one vehicle during the PM peak hour was
observed affected. Although the number of PM peak hour southbound left-turn vehicles
(267 vph) from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road is much higher than the AM peak
hour (122 vph), this movement is operating at an acceptable level of service (LOS B) due
to the much lower number of northbound opposing vehicles.
The intersection of Old Volcano Road and Keaau Road is operating at LOS A and B during
the AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
YEAR 2001 BASE CONDITIONS
The Year 2001 Base forecast of traffic conditions is based on existing traffic volumes plus
expected ambient growth in traffic caused by regional growth throughout the entire island
of Hawaii. The ambient traffic growth rate, which was applied to existing traffic volumes
to estimate Year 2001 traffic volumes, is based on historical traffic counts conducted by
the State of Hawaii, Department of Transportation (HDOT). Based on historical HDOT
traffic counts in the vicinity of the proposed expansion, an approximate 1°~ per year traffic
growth rate is applied. The resulting Year 2001 Base traffic volumes and level of service
results are shown on Figure 4. Since Year 2001 operations at the Puna generation facility
are not expelled to change, the future traffic generation of the HELCO facility would
remain the same as the existing trip generation as given in Table 2.
With the expected overall traffic growth in the area, the level of service results are similar
to the existing 1997 operating conditions. The westbound left-tum from Keaau Road to
Mamalahoa Highway will continue to operate at LOS F during both.the AM and PM peak
hours, and again, only a small number of vehides will be affected. The southbound left-
tum trom Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road will continue to operate at lAS" F during
the AM peak hour while the PM peak hour level of service will deteriorate from LOS B to
LOS C, which is still within the acceptable range. Table 3 summarizes the level of service
results.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
At the Intersection of Mamalahoa Highway and Keaau Road, the southbound left-turn
movement is currently operating at LOS F during the AM peak hour. This Is due to the
fact that the opposing northbound traffic volume on Mamalahoa Highway (Hilo bound) Is
very high during this time of day. Also, the westbound left-turn movement from Keaau
-4-
nl n AUSTIN, TBUT6UM1 6 A660CV1TE6. WC.
pVK ENOINEERE BVRVEVpR6
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill May ti, 1998
Road to southbound Mamalahoa Highway is operating at LOS F during both the AM and
PM peak hours. However, it should be recognized that only a small number of vehicles
is being affected (only 1 vehicle was observed during both the AM and PM peak hours).
Based on historical growth trends in the area, traffic volumes are expected to increase by
approximately 1% per year. In the Year 2001 Base forecast, the peak hour operations at
both intersections are expected to be similar to existing Year 1997 operating conditions.
It is recommended that no improvements are necessary at the intersection of Mamalahoa
Highway and Keaau Road. Although the westbound left-turn is currently operating at an
undesirable level of service, only a very small number of vehicles are affected. And,
although the southbound left-turns from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road are operating
at an undesirable level of service, this only occurs during the morning peak period when
the opposing northbound approach is heavy. Based on the traffic counts conducted, most
of these vehicles are bound for Keaau Town which can also be accessed by Ahoa Street
and Kalapana Road further south.
Please call me should you require clarification or additional information.
Very truly yours,
AUSTIN, TSUTSUM/'I & ASSOCIATES, INC.
,l,Q ~ ~ ~/-t''
BY ~~~1~
For TED S. KAWAHIGASHI, P.E.
Presideht
Attachments:
Flgure 1 -Protect Area
Figure 2 -Existing Intersection Configurations
Figure 3 -Existing Traic Conditions
Figure 4 -Future Traffic Conditions
Table 1 - Levei of Service Definitions for Unsignalized Intersection
Table 2 -Summary of Project Trip Generation
Table 3 -Summary of Level of Service Results
-5-
'o
0
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NOT TO SCALE
. MACADAMIA RD
KIPIMANA ST
KEAAU RD
PROJECT
LOCATION
i
o~
s KEAAu
~T~ AUSTIN. TSUTSUMI & ASSOCIATES. INC. FIGURE
CH2M HILL ENCINEERS.SURVEYORS • NONOLULU,NAWNI
HELCO PUNA
POWER GENERATING STATION PROJECT AREA
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~T~ AUSTIN, TSUTSUMI & ASSOCIATES. INC. FIGURE
CH2M HILL ENCINEERS,SURVEYORS • HONOLULU,HAWAII
HELLO PUNA EXISTING INTERSECTION 2
POWER GENERATING STATION
CONFIGURATIONS
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~TA AUSTIN, TSUTSUMI & ASSOCIATES, INC_ FIGURE
CH 2 M HILL ENCINEERS,SURVEYORS • NONOLULU,HNWaI
HELCO PUNA
POWER GENERATING STATION EXISTING TRAFFIC CONDITIONS
IQL MWC: 2:\USERS\CVErtrOnA91-16\M.OYIC [i,03-EMT-l05)
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o (o)A ~ ~ ~ tt (»-A ~ ~ ~ KEAAU RD
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~T~ AUSTIN, TSUTSUMI & ASSOCIATES, INC. FIGURE
CH2M HILL ENCINEERS,SURVLYORS • HONOIULU.HAWAII
HELLO PUNA FUTURE YEAR 2001 L~.
POWER GENERATING STATION TRgFFIC CONDITIONS
(RL MIiYG i1USERS\EKrt'IONE\i)-16~M.OWG (iC5-IIPt101-{p$]
M2 ~-i0-q
~1/` 4VS GNi EUNGMIEEH'¢6• ¢WVE~OR6
TABLE 1
LEVEL OF SERVICE DEFINITIONS FOR UNSIGNALIZED INTERSECTION
DELAY
LEVEL OF SERVICE (SECONDS/VEHICLE) DESCRIPTION
A 0.0 - 5.0 Little or no delay
B 5.1 - 10.0 Short traffic delay
C 10.1 - 20.0 Moderate traffic delay
D 20.1 - 30.0 Long traffic delay
E 30.1 - 45.0 Very long traffic delay
F > 45.0 Failure -extreme congestion
SOURCE: 'Highway Capacity Manual', Transportation Research Board, 1994.
M.16TM. T6UT6UM1 6 n660CWTE6, ,NC.
CNL ENGNEEi16 EWVEVpg6
TABLE 2
SUMMARY OF PROJECT TRIP GENERATION
AM PEAK HOUR PM PEAK HOUR
DAILY IN OUT TOTAL IN OUT TOTAL
Existing and Future
Trp Generation
Staff [a] 16 3 3 6 3 3 6
Med. Sulfur Fuel OII [b] 20 3 3 6 3 3 6
Diesel [b] 20 3 3 6 3 3 6
Total 56 9 9 18 9 9 18
Notes:
[aJ 5cistinp Puna Power Plant staffing consists of 3 shifts of 2 employees per shift plus CT-3 staNing consisting of 2 shpts with 1
employee per shift. Trip generation estimation assumes shift change occurs during both the AM and PM peak hours.
[bJ Trip generation based on 49 deliveries per week (weekdays only), which averages to 10 loads per day. Assumes 30% of
deliveries occur during both the AM and PM peak hours.
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Appendix C
" Puna Generating Station, Air Quality Impacts"
Prepared by Jim Clary and Associates, June, 1998
Puna Gener-a~ting Station
Air Quality Impacts
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
Prepared by:
Jim Clary & Associates
June 1998
Table of Contents
1 EXISTING CONDITIONS 1
1.1. TOPOGRAPHY ...........................................................................................................................................1
1.2. METEOROLOGY/CLIMATE ..........................................................................................................................1
1.3. EXISTING AIR QUALITY ..............................................................................................................................1
2. APPLICABLE FEDERAL REGULATIONS ..................................................................................................2
2.1. NATIONAL AND STATE AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS .......................................................................2
2.2. NEW SouacE REVIEW .............................................................................................................................3
2.3. NEW SOURCE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS ..............................................................................................4
2.4. NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS ......................................................4
2.5. GOOD ENGINEERING PRACTICE STACK HEIGHT PROVISIONS ...................................................................4
3. APPLICABLE HAWAII REGULATIONS ......................................................................................................4
4. PROJECT IMPACTS .....................................................................................................................................4
4.1. CONSTRUCTION AIR EMISSIONS ................................................................................................................5
4.2. OPERATIONAL AIR EMISSIONS ..................................................................................................................6
4.3. IMPACTS ON SOILS, VEGETATION, AND VISIBILITY .....................................................................................6
5. MRIGATION MEASURES ............................................................................................................................6
6. REFERENCES ...............................................................................................................................................7
ust of Tables
TABLE 1.3-1 EXI5ITNG AIR QUALRY .........................................................................................................................8
TABLE 21-1 SUbAAARY OF STATE OF HAWAII AND FEDERAL. AMBIENT AIR QUALTY S`fANDARDS .............................8
TABLE 22-1 SUMMARY OF IMPACT LEVELS, MONrrORING LEVELS, PSD INCREneENf's, AND STATE AND FEDERAL
STANDARDS FnR SELECTED P7LLllrMlfs .............................................................................._.........._...........9
TABLE 42-1 PLKJA EMISSIONS DATA U$ED M! EXISTING AIR QUALTTI' MODELING ANALYSIS ....................................9
list of Figures
FIGURE 12-1 WIND ROSE .....................................................................................................................................10
1. Existing Conditions
1.1. Topography
The Puna Generating Station is located on the Island of Hawaii in the easterly part of the Island,
which is referred to as the Puna area. The station is located about 16 kilometers (km) south of
Hilo, near the town of Keaau. About 16 km west of the Pacific Ocean, it is located in the upper
Waiakea forest reserve. Other than sparse pockets of development, abandoned sugar cane
fields surround the generating station.
Terrain in the area can be described as mountainous due to the proximity of Mauna Loa Volcanic
Mountain. Terrain elevations in this area range from 61 meters (m) near the Pacific Ocean to
570 m above mean sea level (MSL) within a 13-km radius of the facility. The elevation of the
Puna facility is approximately 67 m above MSL.
1.2. Meteorology/Climate
The Island of Hawaii is located in the trade wind band, a region in the north Pacific, dominated by
a semi-stationary high pressure center north of Hawaii. Wind circulation around the high
pressure area is clockwise and outward from the center. The trade winds come to Hawaii from
the northeast to the east with the orographic channeling effect in some locations modifying the
intensity and direction of the winds. In general, the trade winds are more persistent in the
summer than in the winter (frequencies average 90 and 50 percent, respectively) and stronger in
the afternoon than at night. At night the wind direction becomes variable and blows out of the
mountains. This difference is due to the presence of the island's two largest mountains, Mauna
Kea and Mauna Loa.
The island terrain influences the climate with rainfall amounts varying with elevation and location
and the effect of the persistent northeasterly trade winds. The Puna area receives between 130
inches of rain near the coastline and as much as 200 inches of rain in the uppermost elevations
surrounding the fadlity. The annual average temperature is 23.1 degrees C, with an average
daily maximum of 27.3 degrees C and the daily minimum of 21.8 degrees C (HECO 1972).
On~fte meteorological data are one of the required Inputs for dispersion modeling. HELCO
began collecting these data (ndudng wind speed and wind direction) on February 5, 1996. The
monitoring station, Site 033, is located approximately 1.8 km west southwest of the Puna
Generating Station. The monitoring station was operated in compliance with U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. The wind rose for Site 033 is shown in Fgure 12-1. The
distnibution displays the expected bi-modal distribution and not the normal trade wind
characteristics. The winds blowing from the east are primarily daytime, while the winds from the
northwest are nighttime drainage winds from the higher terrain.
1.3. F~cisting Air Quality
The Puna Generating Station ambient air and meteorological postconstruction monitoring
program was located at a station located approximately 1.8 km west southwest of the Puna
Generating Station. The monitoring station is located in the area of maximum modeled impacts
from the Puna Generating Station. Therefore, the air quality data are representative of the
current air quality including the existing Puna Station. The monitoring station provided data for
r
sulfur dioxide (SOZ), particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter (PM,a), nitrogen dioxide
(NOz), carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (03) from January 1993 through December 1993.
Table 1.3-1 shows the resulting air quality data as well as the percent of data recovery. The data
collected at the monitoring station confirm that the operation of the existing Puna Generating
Station does not cause an exceedance of the State Ambient Air Quality Standards (SAAQS) or
the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
The worst air pollution episodes experienced on the Island of Hawaii are the result of volcanic
eruptions. Visibility is reduced by the presence of fine particulate resulting directly from volcanic
activity and, secondarily, from forest fires caused by ensuing lava flows. In addition, there can be
substantial increases in the ambient concentrations of sulfur dioxide and a number of toxic
pollutants, such as heavy metals, during volcanic events.
2. Applicable Federal Regulations
Emissions of air pollutants are regulated at the federal level pursuant to the Clean Air Act (CAA).
The following are some of the major provisions of the CAA that potentially apply to any future
expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaicity:
• National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
• New Source Review (NSR)
- Prevention of Sign'rficent Deterioration (PSD) Program
- Nonattainment NSR Regulations
• New Source Performance Standards (NSPS)
• National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)
• Good Engineering Practice (GEP) Stack Height Provisions
21. National and State Ambient Air Quality Standards
The EPA has established two types of NAAQS spedtying maximum acceptable pollution levels
for outdoor air. The standards are designed with a margin of safety to protect the most sensitive
individuals of the population. Primary standards set limits that protect public health. Secondary
standards protect public welfare. These standards must be attained in all areas that are
accessible to the general public. The seven criteria pollutants for which NAAQSs have been
established are: sufur dioxide (SOS, nitrogen dioxide (NO~J, carbon mono~ade (CO), ozone (03),
particulate matter less than 10 microns (PM,o), particulate matter less than 2.5 microns (PMT)
and lead (Pb).
Hawaii's State Ambient Air Quality Standards (SAAQS) for sulfur dio~ade and PM,a are similar to
the federal NAAQS. The state has more stringent standards for carbon monoxide, ozone, and
nitrogen dioxide. The state standards for other criteria pollutants are identical to the NAAQS
except that the state has made no distinction between primary and secondary standards and that
2
Hawaii also has an additional standard for hydrogen sulfide (HZS). Table 2.1-1 shows the federal
and state ambient air quality standards.
2.2. New Source Review
PSD regulations (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 52.21) apply to major stationary sources
located in areas meeting the NAAOS. The PSD regulations define a major stationary source as
any source that belongs to a list of 28 categories that have the potential to emit 100 tons per year
(TPI~ or more of any pollutant regulated under the CAA, or any other source type that has the
potential to emit pollutants in amounts equal to or greater than 250 TPY. The Puna Generating
Station is classified as a major stationary source.
if a modification to an existing major source is located in an area in compliance with the NAAOS,
a PSD review is required for all pollutants that have the potential for signirficant increases in
emissions because of the modification. Because the Puna area is designated either attainment
or unclass'rfiable for all the NAAOS, a PSD review will be required for all pollutants that show a
significant increase.
The PSD regulations require states to designate all geographic areas into one of three classes:
• Class I applies to those areas where practically any deterioration in air quality would be
significant.
• Class II applies to areas where moderate, well-controlled and well-sited industrial growth
would be permitted.
• Class III applies where industrial areas would be allowed to experience the greatest
degree of air quality deterioration.
Pollutant-spedfic PSD review includes:
• Application of Best Available Control Technology (BACT)
• Analysis of ambient air quality impacts from the project (PSD Class II and ambient)
• Analysis of air quality and visibility impacts on Class I areas
• Analysis of the Impact on things such as soils, vegetation, and visibility that are affected
diredly as a resuk of air emissions from the projed and general commerdal, residential,
and other growth assodated with the project.
The State of Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has designated the Puna area as Class II. The
closest Class I area is the Volcanoes National Park, located approximately 14.4 miles southwest
of the project. The Class I and Class II PSD increments and the NAAOS/SAAOS for sufur
dioxde, nkrogen dioxde, PM/PM,o, and carbon mono~ade are presented in Table 2.2-1. The
sign cant impact levels for sulfur dioxide, nkrogen dioxde, carbon monoxide, and PM/PM,o are
also presented.
Hawaii's attainment status for all criteria pollutants means that the nonattainment regulations do
not apply to any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaicity:.
3
2.3. New Source Performance Standards
The NSPS are a set of national emission standards that apply to new, modified, or reconstructed
stationary source categories. One of these standards, subpart GG includes the emission
limitations that apply to a new, oil-fired combustion turbine. Specifically, that subpart requires:
• Sulfur dioxide - 0.015 percent sulfur dioxide in the exhaust gas at 15 percent oxygen, or
0.8 percent sulfur fuel by weight, and
• Nitrogen oxide - 75 parts per million (PPM) in the exhaust gas at 15 percent oxygen and
on a dry basis.
Any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaicity: would comply with
these standards. DoH regulations (Section 11-60.1-38(b)) limit the fuel sulfur content to 0.5% by
weight for fossil fuel fired power and steam generating facilities having a power generating output
in excess of 25 MW or a heat input greater than 250 MM BTU/hr.
2.4. National Emission Standards for Hazarcious Air Pollutants
The NESHAP regulations currently do not apply to the Puna Generating Station since hazardous
air pollutant standards for fossil-fuel-fired power plants have not been developed by EPA.
2S. Good Engineering Practice Stack Height Provisions
The federal guidelines for GEP stack height apply to the project. These guidelines identify design
criteria acceptable to regulatory agencies to establish a method for determining the stack height
that will minimize the influence of nearby structures on normal plume dispersion.
3. Applicable Hawaii Regulations
In addition to the federal regulations, the State of Hawaii regulates air pollution under Hawaii
Administrative Rules (HAR), Title 11, Chapters 59 and 60.1; Hawaii State Ambient Air Quality
Standards (SAAQS); and Hawaii Air Pollution Control Rules, respectively.
Hawaii's State Ambient Air Quality Standards (SAAQS) for sufur dioxide and PM,o are similar to
fhe federal NAAQS. The state has more stringent standards for carbon mono~ade, ozone, and
nitrogen dioxide. The state standards for the other criteria pollutants are identical to the NAAQS
except that the state has made no distinction between primary and secondary standards. Hawaii
also has an additional standard for hydrogen sulfide (HZS). The SAAQS are shown in Table 2.1-
1.
4. Project Impacts
Detailed estimates of the air quality impacts assoaated with any future expansion of the Puna
Generating Station's generating capaicity: would typically be calculated by conducting an air
quality dispersion modeling analysis. While that level of analysis is beyond the scope of this
impact evaluation, such an analysis will be conducted for and included with the CSP/PSD
application to be submitted to the Hawaii Department of Health. That analysis will meet the
a
requirements of federal and state air qualify regulations. The following paragraphs describe how
that modeling analysis maybe performed.
The potential ambient air quality impacts of any future expansion of the Puna Generating
Station's generating capaicity: are determined by means of dispersion modeling. EPA-approved
models will be used in the air quality analysis. The choice of appropriate dispersion modeling
methods for evaluating the air quality impacts for the any future expansion of generating capacity
is governed by EPA's modeling guidelines (40 CFR Part 51, Appendix W) and the topography of
the site area. The area surrounding the site consists of both simple and complex terrain, i.e., the
terrain heights are below stack height in some areas and above stack height in others.
Therefore, a model with the ability to perform calculations in both simple and complex terrain will
be used. Two EPA-approved models, ISCST3 and ISC_RTDM, can perform the calculations.
Either model is suitable for the air quality analysis. ISCST3 contains COMPLEXI (an EPA-
approved complex terrain model) and ISC_RTDM contains RTDM which is also an EPA
approved complex terrain model. Both ISCST3 and ISC_RTDM implement the EPA Intermediate
Terrain Guidance. An analysis of potential visibility impairment will be evaluated using the EPA
guideline model VISCREEN.
The computer models will be used along with the complete year of on-site meteorological data to
estimate air quality in the vicinity of the power plant when the facility is operating at its maximum
proposed emission rate. The modeled impact of the project will be compared with various
regulatory threshold concentrations. The purpose of the modeling is to demonstrate that the
operation of any proposed expansion of the HELCO Puna facility will not cause or contribute to a
violation of any PSD increment or ambient air quality standard.
The following is a list of the principal elements of the air quality impact assessment to be included
in the CSP/PSD application:
• Identifying the worst-case scenario,
• Determining the impact area based on worst-case operating scenario,
• A PSD Class I Increment consumption analysis including visibility and air quality Impacts,
• A PSD Class II Increment consumption analysis,
• NAAQS and SAAQS assessment,
• Nontxiteria pollutant anatysls, and
• Other potential air quality impacts (such as soils, vegetation, and visibility).
4.1. Construction Air Emissions
Construction of the any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaidty:
would produce two types of emissions: (1) exhaust from vehicles and construction equipment and
(2) dust generated during site excavation and equipment movement. Equipment exhaust
emissions would be small, localized and transient. Dust emissions would be controlled by
watering the site during dry or windy periods.
5
4.2. Operational Air Emissions
Although no modeling has been performed for any future expansion of the Puna Generating
Station's generating cepaiaty:, recent modeling of the existing Puna Generating Station has been
performed for CSP application # 0235-01. This modeling includes the impact of the existing
Puna Generating Station sources. Emission rates for the existing Puna sources are shown in
Table 4.2-1. The modeling analysis demonstrates that predicted concentrations for the existing
Puna Generating Station are below the NAAOS and SAAOS. The modeling of the existing CT-3
and boiler at Puna provides a general estimate of the location and magnitude of maximum
impacts that may be expected from a new combustion turbine and boiler. The EPA guideline
dispersion model ISCST3 was used to calculate maximum concentrations of combustion
pollutants that would potentially result from the existing Puna Generating Station. The following
information was used to predict the maximum ground-level concentrations of air pollutants from
the Puna Generating Station:
• A full year of Hilo airport meteorological data
• The currently permitted sources of emission rates as defined in CSP application # 0235-
01,which includes CT-3 and a boiler
• The existing facility configuration GEP analysis.
The modeling analysis predicted the maximum ground-level concentrations for nitrogen dioxide,
sulfur dioxide, PM,p, and carbon monoxide. The modeling assessment only included sources
from the Puna Generating Station. All predicted concentrations were well below the
corresponding NAAOS and SAAOS. The SOZ 24-hour modeling results showed the highest
percent of the standard at 53.3%. Most other modeling results were less than 17% of their
respective standard. CO, NO2, and annual PM,o maximum impacts were located 2 to 3 km
southwest of the facility in complex terrain. SOZ and short term PM,o maximum impacts were
located within 0.5 km of the faality in intermediate terrain.
4.3. Imparts on Soils, Vegetation, and Visibility
Federal Primary Air Quality Standards are based on protection of human health. Federal
Secondary Air Quality Standards (which in most cases are no less stringent than primary
standards) are based on human 'S~velfare; which indudes such consideratioru as impacts to
vegetation, animals, visibility, and comfort Studies for the previous air permit application for the
power plant (HI 90-04) did not identify any sensitive soils or vegetation in the vicinity of the plant.
Therefore, since the maximum concentrations must be below the State Air Quality and Federal
Secondary Air Quality Standards, the soils and vegetation would not be significantly impacted.
5. Mitigation Measures
Construction and operation of the any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's
generating capaicity: would be approved only when state and federal regulatory authorities are
satisfied that HELCO will be able to fully comply with the applicable rules, regulations, and air
quality standards. Additional mitigation measures may be established by the Hawaii Department
of Health (DoH) during the permitting process and may include limitations on the allowable size of
the facility, emission control technology requirements, or specifications of fuel properties. The
s
projects design, including the stack height and emission controls, will be appropriate to minimize
adverse air quality impacts.
6. References
Hawaii State Department of Health. Hawaii Administrative Rules. Title 11, Chapter 59. Ambient
Air Quality Standards.
Hawaii State Department of Health. Hawaii Administrative Rules. Title 11, Chapter 60.1. Air
Pollution Control.
Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc. (July 1992). Monitoring Plan to Perform Ambient Air and
Meteorological Monitoring for Unit 3 for Puna Generating Station, Hawaii. Submitted to the
Hawaii Department of Health.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations. 40 CFR 52.21.
"Prevention of Significant Deterioration "
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations. 40 CFR 51, Appendix W.
"Guideline on Air Quality Models (Revised) "
TABLE 1.3-1 EXISTING AIR QUALITY
Averaging Concentration °/a Data
Pollutant Period (g/m') Recovery
Sugur Dioxide 3-hr 585 89
24-hr 117 89
Annual 5 89
PM,o (Particulate Matter less
than 10 microns in diameter) 24-hr 32 94
Annual 14 94
Nitrogen Oxide Annual 2 86
Carbon Monoxide 1•hr 800 90
8-hr 343 90
Ozone 1-hr 92 89
TABLE 2.1-1 SUMMARY OF STATE OF HAWAII AND FEDERAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS
Hawaii Federal Federal Federal
State Primary Secondary Class II PSD
Averaging Standard Standard' Standard ° Increment
Pollutant Period g/m') g/m') (g/m') g/m')
Carbon Fbnoxbe 1-hr 10,000 40,000 40,000
6-hr 5,000 10,000 10,000
titrogenD'axkfe Annual° 70 100 100 25
PM10 (Partculale Matter less
than 10 microns M dieneter) 24-hr 1li0 160 150 30
Annual° 60 60 60 17
Ozone 1-hr 100 235 235 -
SuNur Dioxide 3-hr 1,90D - 1,900 612
24hr 965 965 - 81
Annual' 60 60 20
Fi/drogen Sulfide i-hr 35 -
Lead 3 months ° 1.6 1.5 1.6
Dotes:
Designed to prevent adverse ellects to public health.
Designed to prevent sdverse ellects on public w eNare, w hich IncWde eflects on conion, visbliry,
vegetation, aninals, aesthetics, end sosng and deterbration of materials.
Ardhrretic mean.
8
TABLE 2.2-1 SUMMARY OF IMPACT LEVELS, MONffORING LEVELS, PSD INCREMENTS, AND
STATE AND FEDERAL STANDARDS FOR SELECTED POLLUTANTS
Federal Federal Federal
Hawaii State Primary Secondary Class II PSD
Averaging Standard Standard° Standardb Increment
Pollutant Period /ms /m9 /m, /m'
arbon Monoxide 1•hr 10,000 40,000 40,000
8-hr 5 000 10000 10 000
Nitro en Dioxide Annual ` 70 100 100 25
PMro (Particulate Matter less
han 10 microns in diameter) 24-hr 150 150 150 30
Annual` 50 50 50 17
PMz.s (Particulate Matter less
han 2.5 microns in diameter) 24-hr none 50 50 none
Annual` none 15 15 none
zone 1-hr 100 235 none
Sulfur Dioxide 3-hr 1,300 1,300 512
24-hr 365 365 91
Annual` 80 80 20
H dro en Sulfide 1-hr 35 -
Lead 3 months ` 1.5 1.5 1.5 -
Notes:
' Designed to prevent adverse effects to public health.
° Designed to prevent adveree effects on public welfare, which include effects on comfort, visibility,
vegetagon, animals, aesthe8a, and soiling end deterioration of materiels.
` Adthmetic mean.
TABLE 4.2-1 PUNA EMISSIONS DATA USED IN EXISTING AIR QUALITY MODELING ANALYSIS
It sions
Unlt ID SO PM NO CO
T-3 13.86 2.48 5.33 59.93
Biller 69.1 9.02 24.06 2.08
9
FIGURE 1.2-1 WIND ROSE
FREQUENCY OF WIND SPEED 8 DIRECTION
N
~ \
~ \
\
/ ~ \
/ \
- - ~ \
I ~ \
I ~ 12 ,5
I I 9
I I
W I I I I 2. ~ 3 6 I E
I I I 3 CALM I I i I
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PUNA SODAR
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WIND SPEED SCALE (KNOTS) t n d s a t 75m Le v e l
NOTE - WIND DIRECTION IS THE
DIRECTION WIND IS BLOWING FRO
10
Appendix D
Agency Comment Letters
United States Department of the Interior
'`f' FISH AND WII.DLIFE SERVICE
Ecological Services -Pacific Islands Ecoregion
•.4,~ 300 Ala Moans Blvd., Room 3-122
~ P.O. Box 50088
Honolulu, Hawaii 96850
Phone: (808) 541-3441
FAX: (808) 541-3470
In Reply Refer To: EAS ~ 2 4 1996
Al Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill
1585 Kapiolani Blvd. Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814
Dear Mr. Lyman:
RE: Hawaii Electric Light Company's Puna Generating Station Land Use District Boundary
Amendment and Rezoning, TMK 1-06-03:93
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on your letter dated March 25, 1998,
concerning the Hawaii Electric Light Company's (HELLO) Puna Generating Station Land Use
District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning, TMK 1-06-03:93.
HELLO is currently operating under a special use permit for their current activities and is
seeking to rezone the site. HELLO wants to re-designate the site to the State's urban district,
and rezone the site to the County's general industrial designation. HELLO wants to do this
since the current use of the site is consistent with uses permitted under the general industrial
designation. HELLO currently has no plans to either increase the generating capacity at the
Puna Generating Station or increase the intensity of ancillary uses at the site. However,
HELLO anticipates that the site's generating capacity and ancillary uses will be increased at
some time in the future.
No significant adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources are expected to result from the
proposed zoning change. However, the Service would like you to be aware that the Hawaiian
hawk (Buteo solitarius) and Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus) have been sighted
in the proximity of the generating station.
The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on the proposed zoning change. If you have
questions regarding these comments, please contact Fish and Wildlife Biologist Elizabeth Sharpe
by telephone at 808/541-3441 or by facsimile transmission at 808/541-3470.
Sincerely,
Y.Y(.t>~
Brooks Harper
Field Supervisor
Ecological Services
cc: NMFS-PAO, Honolulu
USEPA-Region IX, San Francisco
.4 o r y+~y
li ~~s~.~~
21JAMtH J. CAYETANO JAMES J. Nq!(gTANI
' Chalryerson, ewrtl o(ApAalWre
N
~A``~ D~b ttu Ctre4DCrsoe
State of Hawaii Me~Geg peeress:
DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE p•O. ecz 22159
1428 South fang Street rived°fu.HevraG9682Y2tss
Honolulu, Hawaii £36814-2512 Fax:(809)919.96ta
June 4, 1998
FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL (3 pages) 941-8225
'1'0: Al Lyman (943-7135, ext. 218)
CH2MHi11
From: Earl Yamamoto (973-9466)
Subject: ALISH/LSB for Big Island
TMK: 1-6-03: 93
Land Study Bureau Detailed Land Classification, Island of Hawaii
(November, 1965), map 654. Parcel 93 has a "U" or urban use
rating, reflecting the industrial use of the area. Former
sugarcane lands surrounding the mill site have an overall
Productivity Rating of "C" and have fair productivity potential
for most crops.
Agricultural Lands of importance to the State of Hawaii (ALISH)
system (January, 1977), map H-66. Parcel 93 does not have an
ALISH rating (see attached maps).
enclosures (2)
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BENJAMIN J. CAYETANO ROY S. OSHIRO
GOVERR00. E%ECUTIVE DIRECTOR
IVY
STATE OF HAWAII IN 0.EPLY REFER TO
DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND FINANCE -
HOUSING FINANCE AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION
6TT QUEEN STREET, SUITE 700 98 : DEV/ 118 0
HONOLULU, HAWAII 96813
FAX (608) 561-0600
April 1, 1998
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M Hill
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
SUBJECT: Request for Agency Comments
Hawaii Electric Light Company's Puna
Generating Station
Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
TMK (3) 1-06-03: 93
The Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HFDC)
acknowledges receipt of your letter dated March 25, 1998
requesting comments to the above subject proposed Land Use
District Amendment and Rezoning for Hawaii Electric Light
Company's (HELLO) Puna Generating Station.
HFDC has no objections to HELCO's proposed Land Use District
Amendment and Rezoning. The proposed actions appear to conform
land use designations to an existing, continuing and essential
use which originated from Puna Sugar operations.
Should there be any questions or comments regarding this matter,
please contact Stan Fujimoto, Project Manager, at 587-0539.
Sincerely,
ROY S. OSHIRO
Executive Director
H F A G
SE o F N1 BENJAMIN J.CAYErANO
~ Soso.. A'~. SEUI~F.
NRNAp
r ~ DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, aRADLEYJ.lAOa~SMAN
DEPUTY DIRECTOR
~ ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM RICKEGGEO
DIRECTOR, OFFICE OF PLANNING
°~,p~~,a,~"~ No. 1 Capitol District Bldg., 250 South Hotel St., 5th Flr., Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 Tel.: (808) 586-2355
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 2359, Honolulu, Hawaii 96804 Fax: (808) 586-2377
Ref. No. P-7361
April 27, 1998
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M HILL, Inc.
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard
Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Dear Mr. Lyman:
Subject: Request for Agency Comments Concerning Hawaii Electric Light Company's
(HELLO) Puna Generating Station Land Use District Boundazy Amendment
and Rezoning, TMK: 1-06-03: 93 (10.5 acres)
We have received your letter dated March 25, 1998, requesting written comments from our
agency regarding HELCO's proposed boundary amendment and rezoning for the Puna Generating
Station.
According to the information provided, the power generating activity was an ancillary use
of a permitted sugar operation. When the sugar operations ceased, HELLO acquired a portion of
the mill site and the adjoining railroad right-of-way in order to continue generating power. The
Hawaii County Planning Commission approved HELCO's request for a Special Permit in 1988.
The permit allowed HELLO to establish the electric power plant and the related improvements as
the principal use of the site. In 1992, HELLO initiated service with its 20.8-MW CT-3 generating
unit at the Puna Generating Station. HELLO is seeking to reclassify the 10.5-acre site from the
Agricultural to the Urban District and to rezone the site from the A-20 agricultural zoning district to
the County's general industrial district (MG).
The Puna Generating Station site is less than one-half mile from Keaau Town, and one
quarter of a mile from the closest point of the proposed Keaau Bypass Road. In 1993, three areas
consisting of approximately 660 acres around the Keaau Town core were reclassified from the
Agricultural District to the Urban District. Currently, the landowner, W.H. Shipman, Ltd. is
developing a master plan for the 660 acres, and has begun discussions with a developer regarding
residential development_ The surrounding land uses consist mainly of formerly cultivated sugar
cane lands, vacant lands, small agricultural operations, and homes. Most of the surrounding
properties aze lazge parcels of land which are also owned by W.H. Shipman, Ltd.
With plans for schools, housing, and other urhan uses underway, HELCO's expectations
that the site's generating capacity and ancillary uses will be increased at some time in the future are
most likely correct. However, while the location of school facilities has been determined, the _
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Page 2
Apri127, 1998
location of other urban uses within the reclassified 660 acres have not been finalized. Further,
some agricultural operations may be relocated, with W.H. Shipman offering land. '
Since HELCO currently has no plans to either increase the generation capacity at the Puna
Generating Station or increase the intensity of ancillary uses, the applicant should explain the need
for a boundary amendment from the Agricultural to the Urban District at this time. Acwrding to
the information provided, i[ is our understanding that any expansion of the site's generating
capacity or ancillary uses is allowed under the current Special Permit No. 686.
Sincerely,
Seiji F. Naya
cc: Ms. Esther Ueda, LUC
Rick Egged, OP
l~ e F NA
WAMINJ. CAYETANO AgUAg1ET9RE BEVEIOPMENT
4VEWYJII OF HAWAII YIXXigMI
AOWTE: RESOUIICEB
Alf CONSEMATgN ND
~'VvyI.IIAF ENNIX)NyEMAL AFFAIR6
CON6EMATXMI 4A
STATE OF HAWAII ~STOUICE~59 ENFCNICEMENT
Fg1E5TM AH9 WIL9LIFE
DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES wro wwwEMENT
DIVISION OF LAND MANAGEMENT surf EAAXs
WATEq AN9 UWO OEVEIOPMENI
P.O. BOX 936
NILO, HAWAII 88721-0936
April 20, 1998
CH2M Hill, Inc.
1585 Kapiolani Blvd #1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
SUBJECT: Request for agency comments concerning Hawaii Electric
Light Co.'s Puna generating station land use district
boundary amendment and rezoning, tmk: (3) 1-6-3-93.
Attention: Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
Gentlemen:
Thank you for your letter dated March 25, 1998, concerning
applications to amend the State Land Use boundary designation .and
County zoning designation.
We have no comments to provide. Should you have any
questions, please call my office at 974-6203.
Sincerely,
Charlene E. Unoki
xc: Hawaii BM
Support Services
AE01l.GYkTTANO h,h 411QIA[L D. wIWN,gtTIRtC,ItpN
MgR.Of NAWAR : ~ , Hlt~~ I - [OARO OF IAIA AEO NATURAL RF[OOKE[
^'I~ OElVIIEf
t Gilbert Coloma-Agaran
~4~M'A,
AWACVLTNIE OEVELOPMEM
PIg41,/},1
STATE OF HAWAII AOVATIC KDJVIICEE
CON[FRVATgN ANO
DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES ENWb11MEMAl AtrAlRs
LONSERVAipN ANp
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION DIVISION REbfN11CEE ENFORCEMEM
SJ 60UTH RINO 6TREET, 0TH FLOOR LONVEYANCE6
Apri114, 1997 HONOLV LU, HAWAII BBBIJ ~FOREETRY A+o WILOUfE
HISTORIC Pf[[ERVATION
OfN510!(
IAND LINIAOEMEM
RATE PARK[
WATER ANp WN pEVELOPMEM
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 968 14-4 53 0
LOG 1`vC: 19305
DOC NO: 9704PM04
Dear Mr. Lyman:
SUBJECT: HELCO Puna Generating Station
Keaau, Puna, Hawaii Island
TMK: 1-6-03: 93 (formerly 1-6-03: Por. 5)
This is in response to your memo dated March 24, 1997 to Ross Cordy, Archaeology Branch
Chief, regarding HELCO's wish to change both the County of Hawaii zoning and the State Land
Use Boundary designation foc their Puna Generating Station.
We have reviewed all of the correspondence you sent relating to historic sites on the subject
property, including the Letter of September 21, 1988 from then Chairperson, William W. Paty.
Because the area has been so extensively disturbed we believe that there are no significant historic
sites remaining on the subject property. We thus believe that the proposed rezoning and boundary
designation changes will have "no effect" on historic sites.
If you should have any questions please contact Patrick McCoy (587-0006).
Sincerely,
y
DON BARD, Administrator
State Historic Preservation Division
PM:els
rrr ~ ~'s•1;~nL~~rt.L?:•.~tl'~.'T'j :F~:4.~•:.~.1:' <'F:.:,
. h. 11~
4,, O, h, MRLAM W. MfY, ONMN,SRhON
WMO M lNq AMO RATYIVL IKf01111C[{
a DCFVREi ' .
I[ LIBERT K. LANDGRAF i
~4 „w• AtANARU TAGOMORI
`tr.a.~? RUSSELL N. FUKUMOTO
STATE OF HAWAII MVAAULTURE DEVELOPMENT
lROGRAM
DEPARTMENT OF WND AND NAll.1RAL RESOURCES /AUATIC RESOURCES
CONSERVATION ANO
P. O. BOX 521 ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS
HONOLULU, HAWAII 55509 CONSERVATION AND
RESOVRCES ENFORCEMENT
CONVEYANCES
FORESTRY AND WILDLIFE
SEP 2 I Iggg LAND MANAGEMENT
STATE PARKS
WATER AND LANp DEVELOPMENT
DOC. NO.: 4299E
FILE NO.: 89-097
Honorable Albert Lono Lyman, Director
my of Hawaii
nning Department
Aupuni Street
o, Hawaii 96720
JECT: Special Permit Application (SP 88-22)
Applicant: HELCO
Tax Map Key 1-6-03: Por. 5
r Mr. Lyman:
Thank you for giving our Department the opportunity to comment
this matter. We have reviewed the materials you submitted and
'e the following comments.
Our Department's Historic Sites•Section indicates that since
s application only requests contilnued use of the existing plant
:ilities, there will be "no effect" on significant historic
.es .
Please feel free to call me or Roy Schaefer of our Office of
tservation and Environmental Affairs, at 548-7837, if you have
t questions.
Very truly yours,
WILLIAM W. PA airperson
Board of Lan and Natural Resources
4~ o r h~
it n
~
WAM9/1 CAYEfANO UWIIENCE MIIKE
ooveran aF ~ ~ oa¢cron av ~.unl
~o.~ d"O
STATE OF HAWAII
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
P.O. BOX 3378 1°~' a0u°1°'« b'
EMD•CA8
HONOLULU, HAWAII 98801
April 3, 1998
98-A146
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2MHILL
1585 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
Subject: Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
Hawaii Electric Light Company's Puna Generating Station
Thank you for allowing us to review and comment on the proposed land use boundary
amendment and rezoning of the HELCO's Puna Generating Station site.
The Clean Air Branch, Department of Health has no comments on the proposed boundary
amendment and rezoning, however, would like to offer the following clarifications on the air
pollution control requirements:
1. The air permits are not "discretionary permits." Anew air permit or a permit
amendment is required to be obtained prior to initiating construction on any plant
modification that will result in an emission increase. This includes, as applicable, any
increase in the generating capacity and ancillary uses at the generating station.
2. Any proposed plant modifications are required to comply with all state and federal air
requirements including the national ambient air quality standards.
3 The Puna Generating Station is considered a major source of air emissions and subject
to the covered source permit provisions. Depending on the level of emission increase
from a proposed modification, there are different permitting actions, each incorporating
different procedural and public participation requirements. The public participation
requirements range from no public participation for a minor modification to a 30-day
public comment period followed by a public hearing for a significant modification
triggering the federal Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) review.
If you have any questions, please call Mr. Nolan Hirai of my staff at (808) 586-4200.
Sinceerely,
WIL~2ED K. NAGAf~AINE
Manager, Clean Air Branch
NH/gk
NJAMW ANO t~ oe Ny ~ DA
~i
DEPlR1'bIRECf00.5
BRIAN K MINAAI
GLENN M. OKIMOTO
n
STATE OF HAWAII IN REPLY REFER TO:
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION STP 8.8515
869 PUNCHBOWL STREET
HONOLULU, HAWAII 96613-5097
Apri16, 1998
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M HILL, INC.
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
Deaz Mr. Lyman:
Subject: HELCO's Puna Generating Station
Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
TMK: 1-06-03: 93
Thank you for your transmittal of Mazch 25, 1998.
The subject project will not affect our State transportation facilities.
We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments.
Very truly yours,
KAZU HAYASHIDA
Director of Transportation
c: Ms. Virginia Goldstein, Hawaii Planning Department
~~`''r~4R Donna Fay K Kiyosaki
:phm IG Yatnashiro ChleJEnginar
Malp~ Jiro A. Sumada
.•:•r
~~++c'gf•N~'~~ ~~Pn1Y ~~Enginur
~nrixztt~ zrf ~rx£vrztt
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
25 Aupuni Sveel, Room 202 • Hilo, Hnwaii 96720252
(608)961-8321 • Fax (BOB)96I-8630
April 16, 1998
MR AL LONO LYMAN
CH2M HILL
1585 KAPIOLANI BOULEVARD
HONOLULU HI 96814-4530
SUBJECT: CHANGE OF ZONE APPLICATION PREPARATION
Applicant: HELCO
Location: Keaau, Puna, Hawaii
TMK: 1-6-03:093
We have reviewed the subject application and our comments aze as follows:
1. Buildings shall conform to all requirements of code and statutes pertaining to building
construction.
2. A building permit will be required for the change of use. Different code sections and
standazds on building construction may apply.
3. All development generated runoff shall be disposed of on-site and shall not be directed
toward any adjacent properties.
4. All earthwork and grading shall conform to Chapter 10, Erosion and Sediment Control, of
the Hawaii County Code.
5. Solid waste management shall conform to the rules and regulations of the DPW, Solid
Waste Division.
6. Wastewater disposal shall meet the rules and regulations of the DPW, Wastewater
Division.
Letter to Mr. AI Lyman
April 16, 1998
page 2
7. All roads within the area and leading up to the site from the Hawaii Belt Road are
considered private. These roadways aze existing gravel roads and aze substandazd under
general industrial zoning. A roadway variance should be obtained from the County of
Hawaii, Planning Department.
Should there be any questions concerning this matter, please feel free to contact Mr. Casey
Yanagihaza of our Engineering Division at (808) 961-8327.
~SQALEN M. KUBA, Division Chief
Engineering Division
CKY/KG
c: Planning Department
Pgl({(a f3oldstetn
n R YatnasTiiro t v Dtrceter
et
A(ger 'ti ~ Nottttan Olsen
Dcputy Director
~Il~
Of NFi~
~~ixtt~~ ~tt~tZtT
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
25 Aupuni Street, Room 109 Hila, Hcwatt 967204252
(808) 961-8288 Faz (806) 961.9615
February 3, 1997
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M Hill
1585 Kapiolani Blvd.
Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
Special Permit No. 686 (SPP 686)
Applicant: Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
Permitted Use: Establishment of an Electric Power
Plant and related improvements
Tax Map Key• 1-6-3.93 Keaau Puna. Hawaii
This is in response to your letter dated January 2, 1997, relating to the above-referenced
Special Permit No. 686.
We have reviewed our files and hereby confirm that the HELCO's Puna Generating Station
situated on the subject site is located within the area designated as "Industrial" by the
General Plan Land Use Pattern Guide (LUPAG) Map. Further, Special Permit No. 686 does
not impose any conditions limiting the generating capacity of the power plant nor the
construction of related improvements. According to the hearing transcript of the
November 15, 1988, Planning Commission hearing, a representative from HELCO indicated
that the existing plant then needed to be more efficient and possibly increase the number of
megawatts. Therefore, we affirm that the Special Permit does allow HELCO to expand its
electric power plant and related improvements on the subject property.
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
Page 2
February 3, 1997
Subsequent to the approval of Special Permit No. 686, plan approvals were granted by the
Planning Director and building permits were issued by the Department of Public Works
Building Division for the combustion turbine #3 control house, combustion turbine #3 six
steel tanks, a 250-foot stack, storage building and other improvements. Please be advised
that should there be any additional improvements to the generating station site, plan
approvals must be secured from this department as well as approvals from other affected
government agencies.
Should you have any questions on this matter, please feel free to contact Alice Kawaha or
Susan Gagorik of this department at 961-8288.
1S1incerelny~,
V n Y't' 11
VIltG ~O TEIN
Planning Director
AK:dc
F: W P60\DORY AL\LLYM AN . S P P
xc: Mr. Clyde Nagata, Manager, Engineering Department, HELLO
TMK Files 1-6-3:5 and 1-6-3:93
r$ •`k
:phrn IG Yalttuhiro ~ D'lane S.
Quitiquit
Marar Dirccter
••r'h•ei'N't~'P:
fi~lxixnf~r ~ZtfirttYi
DEPARTMENT OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
25 Aupuni Stceeq Room 219 • Hilo, Hawau 96720-4252 • (808) 961.8366 • Fax (808) 9351205
KONA: (808) 329-5226 • Fax (808) 326.5663
E-mail: chresdev@intetpac.net
Apri17, 1998
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2MHILL
1585 Kapiolani Blvd., Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lono:
Re: Request for Agency Comments Concerning Hawaii Electric Light Company's
Puna Generating Station Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning,
TMK 1-06-03:03
Thank you for the opportunity to review the referenced subject. This department has no
comments to offer regarding the proposed boundary amendments and rezoning at this
time.
Sincerely,
'
Raymond Carr
Energy Coordinator
xc: Diane Quitiquit, Director
Ol ~~~fff
a`~~. ~~4
DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY • COUNTY OF HAWAII
c
26 AUPU NI STREET HILO, HAWAII 96720
TELEPHONE (BO9) 961-8660 FAX (609) 961.8667
May 26. 1998
28
Mr. Al Lono Lyman. Senior Project Manager
CH2M Hill, Inc.
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
HAWAII ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY'S PUNA GENERATING STATION
LAND USE DISTRICT BOUNDARY AMENDMENT AND REZONING
TAX MAP KEY 1-06-003:093
Thank you for contacting this Department regarding the proposed subject land uses.
We have no objections to the Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
that you will be seeking.
Our records show that this parcel is not currently connected to our system.
Water, however, is available from a ten (10)-inch line that is in the easement
described below.
We have two (2) existing facilities and one easement that abut your client's
parcel. Specifically:
i. Our Ola'a Wells A and B are on Tax Map Key: 1-6-003:055. These wells are
both in use. There are Department of Health Rules that apply to parcels
within a predetermined distance of a drinking water well. We recommend that
you consult with them.
2. Our Puna Sugar Mill chlorinator station is on the other part of Tax Map
Key: 1-6-003: 055. This facility is in use.
3. We have an easement that runs along and outside of the eastern, northern.
and western boundary of your client's parcel.
- , , 1/Vaf¢r brin ~d ~ro~r¢d6 .
Mr. Al Lono Lyman, Senior Project Manager
Page 2
May 26. 1998
Enclosed is a copy of the volume of water pumped from each of the Department's
wells for the month of December 1997. The wells of concern to you are the Ola'a
Wells A, B. and C.
Should you have any questions, please contact our Water Resources and Planning
anch at 961-8660.
r
f ilto D. Pavao. P.E.
anage
B
Enc.
CI •r/fI
t~ f~
I1` 11
DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY • COUNTY OF HAWAII
~~MIMII~'~, 25 AUPUN STREET • HILO. HAWAII 96%20
TELEPHONE (808)969~1t21 FAX 18081 9 6 9 6 9 9.6
February 20. 1998
Mr. Ed Sakoda, Acting Deputy Director
Commission on wafer Resource Management
P.Q. Box 621
HonolLrlu. HI 96809,
Month of: DECEMBER 1997
BIG ISLAND WELL PUMPAGE REPORT
Usted below are the pumpage data from our Big Island wells:
WELL GALLONS/10005 WELL GALLONS/1000s
Panaewa #1 74,537.4 Kahaluu Well B 26,440.2
Panaewa #2 38,891.6 Kahaluu Well C 26,196.9
Panaewa #3 32.945.8 Kahaluu Well D 0.0
Pilhonua Res #3/A 60,043.9 Holualoa Well 13,313.1
Pilhonua Res #3/B 51.323.6 Kalaoa Well 12.260.0
Papaikou Wetl 7,208.5 Halekil Well 18.828.3
Kulaimano IPepeekeo) 314.1 Keei Well A 2,900.8
Wailes-HOkalau 19.6 Keei WeH B 3.751.0
Paauilo Well 3.131.0 Keei Well C 286.5
Haino 12.641.8 - Keei Well D 17,128.9
Kukuihaele A 1,671 .9 Queen Liliuokalani Trust 29,726.2
Kukuihaele B 0.0 Olaa Well A 1,652.3
Laupahoehoe A 0.0 Olaa well B 865.9
Laupahoehoe B 1,140.8 Olaa Well C 26.376.0
Lalamilo well A 15.641.7 Keonepoko Pohoa 8,023.8
Lalamilo Well B 42.574.5 Pohoa Well #1 1,755.0
Lalamilo Well C 37,931.6 Pahoa Well #2 2.604.0
Lalamilo Well D 0.0 Kalapana Well #1 1,285.1
Kawaihoe well #1 0.0 Kalapana WeII #2 0.1
Kawaihae Welt #2 0.0 Kapoho Wells 0.0
Hawi 52.7 Naalehu Deep Well 1.366.2
Kahaluu Shaft 1.2.3 131,x43.8 Pahala Deep Well 5.036.1
Kahalw Well A 28,200.6
Subtotal 539,715.0 Subtotal 199,796.4
I ~ Grand Total: 739,511.4
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BHe1co01.skg-1 /15/99
COUNTY OF HAWAII PLANNING DEPARTMENT
BACKGROUND REPORT
HAWAII ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY
STATE LAND USE BOUNDARY AMENDMENT (SLU 98-9)
CHANGE OF ZONE APPLICATION tREZ 98-261
HAWAII ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY, INC. is requesting a State Land Use
Boundary Amendment from an Agricultural to Urban District and a Change of Zone by
changing the district classification from Agricultural (A-20a) to General Industrial (MG-l0a)
for approximately 10.5 acres of land. The property is located approximately one mile east of
the Keaau Town Center at the end of Milo Street in the vicinity of the former Puna Sugaz
Company Mill site, Keaau, Puna, Hawaii, TMK: 1-6-3:93.
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. Permission to Use Roads: The subject property is bound by private easement roads
along the north and south property boundaries. The entrance road to the Puna
Generating Station is referred to as Keaau Road (TMK: 1-6-3: Portion of 73); with an
additional easement, TMK: 1-6-03: Portion of 15, that loops azound the subject
property. Permission to use these private roads is through a Grant of Easement from
W.H. Shipman, Ltd. and was recorded at the Bureau of Conveyances at
January 24, 1992.
2. Special Permit No. 686: Effective November 22, 1988, the Planning Commission
approved the request by Hawaii Electric Light Company (HELLO) to establish an
electric power plant and related improvements. A power plant was originally run by
Puna Sugar Company until its closing in 1984. (See Exhibit A -Special Permit
No. 686)
APPLICANT'S REQUEST
3. Request: The applicant is requesting that subject property be redesignated from State
Land Use Agricultural to Urban district and rezoned from A-20a to MG-10a.
Although a Special Permit was originally issued for the current operations, the
applicant is requesting to legitimize the uses and bring the parcel into conformance with
~}TfAc N : C- y33 CO%1/S 8S *.;t~ AC.
permitted uses within the Urban district. The parcel is the site of the Puna Generating
Station.
4. Plans/Capacity of Plant: Currently, the power plant includes a 15.5 MV steam unit
acquired from AMFAC and a 20.8 MW combustion turbine generator (CT-3).
HELCO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and related ancillary
_ improvements. There are no plans to expand the generation capacity through the yeaz
2017. However, the generating capacity at the site may be increased after the year
2017. Related improvements include fuel storage, water pumps and storage, a
switchyard and transmission lines and related facilities. The only immediate changes
are to place the 15.5 MV steam generation unit on a cold standby status in 1999 and
return the steam unit to active status in the year 2003.
5. Employees: There are three shifts with two employees per shift. Other HELCO staff
visits the site for specific tasks; and occasionally contractors are at work on the site.
There is a security fence with a locked security entry gate.
6. Driveway/Parking: The site has paved and graveled areas for parking. The driveway
leading to the facilities is paved.
7. Access: Primary access to the Puna Generating Station is from Highway 11 onto the
Old Volcano Road and to Keaau Road (TMK: 1-6-03: Portion of 73) and
TMK: 1-6-03: Portion of 15. Both roads ar private easements are graveled and owned
by W.H. Shipman, Ltd. According to the applicant's report, the Keaau By-Pass Road,
currently under construction, will intersect with Keaau Road. For traffic turning onto
the Keaau Road from the By-Pass Road, there will be deceleration lanes and turning
pockets with a stop sign for left turns onto Keaau Road. From the Keaau Road onto
the By-pass Road, a stop sign will be located on Keaau Road and acceleration lanes
constructed on the new highway. According to a handout, dated November 18, 1998
by the Departtnent of Transportation, Highways Division, Hawaii District, the Keaau
By-Pass Road will begin at the Old Keaau Road and end neaz the Humane Society.
Completion is estimated for mid-July 1999. The Old Volcano Road/Keaau By-Pass
Road (presently Keaau Road) intersection, is proposed to be reconstructed.
-2-
8. Diesel Delivery Trips: Diesel fuel delivery is approximately 21 to 49 trips per week.
9. Traffic: A Traffic Assessment was prepared by Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc.
(letter dated May 11, 1998). The report concluded that no improvements are necessary
at the intersection of Mamalahoa Highway and Keaau Road. It was observed that
during PM peak period, a relatively high number of vehicles on Mamalahoa Highway
_ turn onto Keaau Road and right onto Old Volcano Road. Based on existing traffic
count data, the number of vehicles utilizing the Keaau Road for the HELCO facility
area is relatively low. During the PM peak period, a relatively high number of
vehicles (267) on Mamalahoa Highway turn left onto Keaau Road and right onto the
Old Volcano road. However, the number of vehicles utilizing the section of Keaau
Road that services the HELCO facility is relatively low. During the AM peak hour, 46
vehicles per hour (vph) were observed. During the PM peak hour, 33 vph use Keaau
Road. Although, left-turn movements from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road is
operating at LOS F, according to the report, these long delays are due to the
northbound opposing vehicles on the highway and only a small number of vehicles are
affected. The report the recommended no improvements for the Mamalahoa Highway
and Keaau Road. ('T'raffic Assessment attached to Application as Appendix B)
10. Air Quality Impacts: A document, "Puna Generating Station, Air Quality Impacts",
was prepared by Jim Clary and Associates, dated June 1998. The study summarizes
existing applicable regulations and standards that the Puna Power Plant is required to
comply with. Existing air quality is monitored by a station located approximately
1.8 km southwest of the plant. Data collected confirms that the plant does not cause an
exceedance of the State Ambient Air Quality Standards (SAAQS) or the National
Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS). Any future expansion of the facilities
would be approved when HELCO complies with applicable rules, regulations and air
quality standards of state and federal agencies. (Air Quality Study attached to
Application as Appendix C)
11. Noise: According to the applicant, personnel measured background noise levels at the
site and measurements indicate that the station is in compliance with the State DOH
-3-
70dBA standard at the property lines. The applicants shall comply with applicable
noise regulations in accordance with the Department of Health.
12. Additional Information: The applicant has submitted a State Land Use Boundary
Amendment and Change of Zone Application with Environmental Report in support of
the request. (See Exhibit B -Hawaii County Environmental Report with
_ Applications)
STATE AND COUNTY PLANS
13. SLU: Agricultural.
14. State Plan: The proposed Urban District and industrial development would be
consistent with the goals, objectives and policies for the economy.
15. General Plan: The proposed development would be consistent with the Economic,
Land Use and Industrial goals, policies, standards and courses of action of the General
Plan.
16. General Plan LUPAG MAP: Industrial Area. Since 1971, the area of the old Puna
Sugar Mill has been designated as Industrial Area. During the 1989 General Plan
Comprehensive Review, the Industrial Area designation was expanded by redesignating
lands in the vicinity from Intensive Agricultural and Orchards to Industrial. This area
was considered for industrial expansion as a variety of industrial uses have been
established in the vicinity through the Special Permit process. The County had
determined that the industrial designation would promote and encourage additional
utilization of this area. Also, in 1989, it was observed that traffic patterns already
indicated tremendous movement across the Puna -South Hilo District boundary.
Keaau is in close proximity to the City of Hilo and has an excellent transportation link
via the Volcano Highway-Kanoelehua Avenue. In addition, Keaau provides a natural
focal point provided by the highway system that could result in the concentration of
additional goods and services at Keaau. To facilitate this growth, also during the 1989
review, the lands on the eastern side of the existing Keaau urban area were
redesignated from Orchards and Urban Expansion to Low Density Urban. Likewise,
the lands to the west and southwest side of Keaau Town were redesignated from
-4-
Orchards to Urban Expansion. Areas further to the east of the subject property are
designated Intensive Agricultural and other surrounding areas aze Orchards. Lands to
the west are designated Low Density Urban. (See Exhibit C -General Plan Map For
Keaau Area)
17. Zoning: Agricultural - 20 acres (A-20a). The subject request would legitimize the
_ Puna Generating Station as a permitted use within the Industrial zoned district
(MG-10), which the subject request is for.
18. SMA: The subject property is not situated with the Special Management Area
boundary.
DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY AND SURROUNDING AREAS
19. Subject Property: The subject property is approximately 10.5 acres in size and is the
site of an existing power plant. It is triangular-shaped and relatively level. The
property was previously a portion of TMK: 1-6-03:05, and subsequently subdivided out
in 1989 (Subdivision 5827). TMK: 1-6-03:SS,located within the subject property and
which is the site of a County of Hawaii Chlorinator Pump, is not a part of this request.
It will remain A-20a.
20. ALISH: The subject property is "not classified" according to the ALISH Map.
21. FIRM: Zone "X" or outside the 500-year flood plain.
22. U.S.D.A. Soil Type: Olaa Silty Clay Loam (OaC), which consists of dazk brown
extremely stony silty clay loam about 16 inches thick with a dazk-brown subsoil that is
extremely stony silty clay loam about 9 inches thick and underlain by Aa lava. This
soil has a medium acid surface layer and a slightly acid subsoil. Permeability is rapid,
runoff is slow and the erosion hazard is slight. This soil is mainly used for sugarcane.
23. Land Study Bureau Soil Rating: Urban.
24. Drainage: Standard drainage improvements would be developed in accordance with
requirements of the Department of Public Works.
25. Floral/Faunal and Archaeological Resources: Although no floral and faunal surveys
were conducted, the site has been cleared and operated as the Puna Sugaz Mill site.
-5-
Due to the quasi-urban setting of the subject and immediate area, impacts to
endangered faunal species should be negligible. Similarly, it is highly unlikely that any
archaeological remains would be present on the site.
26. Surrounding Zoning and Land Uses: Properties immediately surrounding the subject
parcel are similarly zoned A-20a. Surrounding properties consist mainly of formerly
cultivated sugar cane lands, vacant lands, small agricultural operations and residences.
To the east of the subject property is the existing AMFAC Tropical Products tropical
fruit packing and papaya puree processing facilities. Adjacent and southwest of the
subject property is the McCully property, TMK: 1-6-03:5, which recently secured a
State Land Use Boundary Amendment from Agricultural to Urban and a Change of
Zone from A-20a to FA-3a (Ordinance 97-67) and MCX-20 (Ordinance 98-61). The
FA-3a portion of TMK: 1-6-03:5 abuts the Puna Generating Station. Also, to the south
along Milo Street is the site of Greenhouse Specialists (SPP-931) and the existing
Pacific Floral Exchange business. Adjacent and to the east of Pacific Floral Exchange
is the proposed school site for Hawaii Christian Camping Association (SPP 925). It
should be pointed out, that when the special permit for the school and church was
approved, the Hawaii Christian Camping Association was aware of the Puna
Generating Station. They expressed no objections to being located in the same vicinity.
A condition was included in SPP 925 that the school relocate should the health and
safety of the school/church be a concern. Lands to the southwest of the subject
property along the first 1,800± section of Milo Street, are lots approximately 13,000
square feet in size which are zoned RS-10. Existing uses along Milo Street are mainly
single-family residential in nature. A few RS-15 zoned properties are also located in
the area. Along the intersection of Milo Street and the old Volcano Road are
properties zoned CV-10. Approximately 800 feet to the south at the Keaau-Pahoa/Old
Volcano Road intersection is the Keaau Town Center.
27. LUC Docket No. BR93-699 (LUC No. 884): In July 1994, the State Land Use
Commission approved a petition filed by the Office of State Planning for a boundary
amendment from Agricultural to Urban District for approximately 660 acres of land
-6-
owned by W.H. Shipman, Ltd. The newly designated Urban lands, located within the
vicinity of the subject property, would accommodate W.H. Shipman's master plan for
Keaau and include a mix of commercial, industrial, residential, parks and open space
and public facilities. (See Exhibit D)
28. Existing Industrial Zoned Lands: Existing industrial zoned lands in the Puna District
_ are located off Highway 11 at the Shipman Industrial Pazk, approximately .7 miles
from the subject property. The County Council approved the General Industrial
(MG-20) zone district effective August 19, 1986, for approximately 488± acres of land
for the development of Shipman Industrial Park. A portion of the Shipman Industrial
Park has been subdivided in increments between 1987 - 1991. There are presently a
total of 88 lots with average lot size ranging from one half acre to 3 acres. Existing
uses in the area include: heavy equipment construction baseyards, building supplies
baseyard, paving construction baseyards, distributor wazehousing, supetmazket
warehousing, industriallmanufacturing baseyards and other uses. Allied Aggregates
leases one of the larger lots for its existing quarrying operation. For the East Hawaii
area, industrial zoned lands and activities are primarily located in the City of Hilo at
the Hilo harbor, airport and Kanoelehua Industrial areas. Industrial expansion since
1970 has largely occurred through the expansion and in-filling of these areas.
PUBLIC SERVICES AND FACILITIES
29. Access: Legal access to the subject property is from the Old Volcano Road, a County
maintained road, which has a 50-foot right-of--way onto Keaau Road
(TMK: 1-6-03:Portion of 73) and TMK: 1-6-03: Portion of 15, which are graveled
roadway easements owned by W.H. Shipman, Ltd. These roads were previously used
as cane haul roads for Puna Sugar Company. The applicant has easement rights over
these roadway lots for access to the subject parcel. It should be noted that the Keaau
By-Pass Road is presently being worked on and is proposed to be located within the
vicinity of Keaau Road.
30. Water: There are three HELCO wells on the subject site of which approximately 12.1
million gallons per day (mdg) are used. Groundwater is used for cooling water pumps,
-7-
cool fans, generators, the existing combustion turbine, compressors, pumps, air heater
wash, various fire hoses on each floor and for wash-down and cooling needs. Water is
also provided to the adjacent papaya operation. The papaya operation also uses water
provided through a meter located on the subject site. During periods when the steam
plant is not in operation or when the deep wells are shut down, the papaya operation
_ provides HELCO with county water for its needs. The Puna Generating Station is
located over the Keaau Aquifer System. Wells on site have not displayed salinity of
more than 10 parts per million. Current draw from the Keaau Aquifer is less than 20
mgd, with capacity of existing wells in the aquifer totalling 27 mgd.
31. Wastewater: There aze four existing wastewater generated by the power plant. Non-
contact condenser cooling water, is dischazged from the condenser into a reinjection
well located off-site, and is permitted by underground injection control (UIC) permit
No. UH 1438. Auxiliary cooling water is disposed of into aditch/culvert and
discharged off-site. Sanitary wastewater cesspool discharge comprises of
approximately 30 gallons per hour. Industrial wastewater discharge receives primary
treatment on site and is trucked to the Hill Generating Station in Hilo, where it is
further treated and discharged into the facility's injection wells. HELCO is considering
a plan to isolate and recycle all flows out of the existing cooling water pumps through a
service water cooler. There is no municipal wastewater system in the area. A cesspool
or a septic system meeting with the requirements of the Department of Health will be
installed by respective lot owners. According to the Department of Health, a portion
of the subject property is located within 1,000 feet of a drinking water well.
32. Solid and Hazardous Wastes: Solid waste generated by HELCO is recycled to the
extent practicable, with the remainder being disposed of at the County landfill.
Hazardous waste is disposed of in accordance with federal and state regulatory
requirements.
33. Other Utilities/Services: Electricity and telephone are available to the subject
property. Police, fire protection and emergency medical services aze located in the
village of Keaau, less than one mile from the subject property.
-s-
34. Environmental Assessment and Analysis:
A. Relationship between Local Short Term Uses of the Environment and
Maintenance and Enhancement of Long Term Productivity: No short-term
changes are anticipated by the applicant that will impact the components of the
environment. Beyond the year 2017, the Puna Generating Station's generating
_ capacity may be expanded. One impact with possible future expansion is the
change in visual environment. Secondary impacts are related to air emissions.
B. Mitigate Measure Proposed to Avoid, Minimize, Rectify or Reduce Impact:
According to the applicant, there are no mitigative measures planned or
proposed as no development is currently planned.
C. Alternatives to the Proposed Development: According to the applicant, there
are no alternatives since no development is proposed. From a planning
perspective, the Puna Generating Station could continue operation under the
Special Permit.
D. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Natural Resources Involved if
Proposed Action is Implemented: The Puna Generating Station has been in
active use for over a decade and for sugar milling prior to that. No new
development is currently being planned. The continued use of diesel fuel,
rather than other sources is based on economics.
AGENCIES' COMMENTS
35. Police Department (November 13, 199 Memo):
"We have reviewed the above-referenced applications and have no comments or
objections to offer at this time."
36. Fire Department: (December 7, 1998 Memo):
"We have no comments on the above-referenced State Land Use Boundary Amendment
and Change of Zone Application."
37. Real Property Tax Office (November 18, 1998 Memo):
"There are no comments at [his time.
Current Real Property taxes are paid through December 31, 1998."
-9-
38. Department of Land and Natural Resources-Land Division (November 27, 1998
Memo):
We have reviewed the subject application and have no comments to offer regazding this
matter.
Thank you for the opportunity to review this application."
39.~ Department of Public Works: (See Exhibit E -December 9, 1998 Memo and
Applicant's Response dated December 17, 1998)
40. State Land Use Commission: (See Exhibit F -November 17, 1998 Letter and
Applicant's Letter of Response dated January 6, 1999)
AGENCIES - NO RESPONSE
41. Department of Water Supply, Civil Defense, Department of Land and Natural
Resources-SHPD/Land Mgemt., Department of Health, Department of
Transportation-Hon./Hilo, Department of Agricultural, Natural Resources
Conservation Service, 9-1/2 Mile Community Association.
COMMUNITY COMMENTS
42. W.H. Shipman, Ltd. (See Exhibit G -December 30, 1998 Letter).
-10-
CERTIFIRD MAIL
NOVemDC-r 22, lyb8
for. Norman Oss, President
I?awaii Electric Light Compar., Inc.
P.C. Sox 1027
?'ilo, ?Iawaii 90720
Dear "1r. Oss:
Special Use Permit Application
TMK: 1-6-03: Por, of 5
The Planning Commission at its duly held public bearing on
November 15, 1981;, voted to approve your application, Special Gse
Permit No, u'aG, to allow the esr_ahlishment of an electric poker
rlar.t ar:d relater improvements on. 9.3 acres of land situatd ::itc~n
t}-.~ estate Land Use Agricultural District at Keaau, Pura, 3avaii.
?,nrroval cf this request is based on the following:
The granting of this request would promote the
effec*_iveness and o',-.jectives of Chapter 205, Hawaii Revisew
Statutes, as amended. The State Land Use Law and Regulations
are intended to nreserve, protect, and encourage the development
of lands in the State for those uses to which they aze best
auite~ in the interest of the public health and welfare of the
people of the State of Hawaii. In the case of agricultural
districY.s, rife intent is to nreserve or keep lands of high
agricultural potential in agricultural use. While the subject
area has bean classified "Prime' by the ALISH asap system, tY,e
land has been improved with the sugar mill operations and the
esistinq power plant. This approval should nut affect the
agricultural resources of this parcel, since sugar is no longer
a viable agricultural pror3uct in this area. Furthermore, a
facility for anthurium racking and processing and a papaya
~:et~:^dration were given special perr.;its by the Manning
Ccr:miGSion erithin 1,000 feet cf the power plant. Uecause of the
curr~•nt industrial pressures occurring in the vicinit}• of the
EXHIBIT N~, ,
2 1933
r
Mr. Norman Oss, President
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
November 22, 1988
Page 2
proposed site coupled with the non-productive state of the land,
approval of this request would not adversely affect the
potential productivity of the area.
_ The desired use will not adversely affect the surrounding
properties. As stated previously, the subject parcel is largely
surrounded by vacant land. Since the power plant and sugar mill
have been in existence over a period of time, the impacts to
nearby residences would not be an introduction of anything new
to the area. Access will be gained along a private roadhay
system which runs through abandoned cane lands. This is not
anticipated to generated new adverse impacts.
The desired use will not unreasonably burden public
agencies to provide roads and streets, sewers, water, drainage,
school improvements, police and fire protection. Responding
agencies raised no objections to the existing use.
The use will not substantially alter or change the
essential character of the land and the present use. As
previously mentioned, the character of the area is a mix of
industrial-type uses intersperse6 with vacant sugar land and
nearby residential uses. The continuation of the power plant
operation will not significantly change the environment.
Unusual conditions, trends, and needs have arisen since the
district boundaries and regulations were established. The slow
decline and eventual shutdown of a major industry have led to an
unusual condition in Reaau where a power plant stands
independent of former agricultural support systems.
Nevertheless, HELCO's need to supply the current demand can be
met with the 14 megawatt plant.
The request is not contrary to the General Plan. In fact,
the Land Use Pattern Allocation Guide (LUPAG) Map designates ttie
property for Industrial uses.
Based on the above considerations, it is determined that
the establishment of an electric power plant is an unusual and
reasonable use of land, which would not be contrary to the
objectives sought to be accomplished by the Land Use Law Rules
and Regulations.
Approval of this request is subject to the following conditions:
t9r. ;7orman Oss, President
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
*lovemher 22, 1988
Paa~ 3
1. The petitioner, it= successors or assigns shall ~e
responsible for complying with all stated conditions of
approval.
2. rr^inal subdivision shall be secured within one year frcn tare
effective date of this permit.
3. Final Plan Approval shall be secures from the Planning
Department within ene year from the effective date of this
permit. 'v11^.ile r.o additional requirements, such as rarkirg
and landscaping, will be imposed at the time of plan
approval review, the purpose of this corditicn is to have
detailed plans and review on file. To assure adequate time
for plan approval review and in accordance wit!': Chaptar
25-244 (Zoning Code), plans shall be submitte~ a minimum of
forty-five days prior to th:e Gate by whicY. ~lar. acprovai
must be secured.
4. Ccmnly with all other applicable laws, rules, regulaticn~
znd requirement=.
Ar. annual progress rspcrt shall be subrr,itted to t'r:e
Planning Director prior to the anniversary date of the
approval of the permit. The report shall include, bat not
be limited to, the status of the development and to what
extent the conditions of apr_,roval are heir., co!^^liE' ~,:itn.
This condition shall remain ir. effect until all of *_k',e
conditions of approval have been complied and the Planr.inc;
Director acknowlerges that further reports are not rewired.
5. A~ extension cf time for the aerformance of co r.riticns
within the permit may be granted by the Plan,,^:ing Director
anon *_he following circumstances: a) the r.on-performance
is the result of conditions that could not have been
foreseer. or are beyond the control of the applicant,
successors or assigns, and that are not the result of their
fault or neglicence; b) granting of the tine extension
would not be contrary to the general plan or zoning code;
c) granting of the ti e extension would not be cur.trar: to
the original reasons for the granting of the permit; and
rl) the time extension granted shall be for z •,=riot not to
axceed the pariod originally granted for per*orrnar.ce (i.e.,
a condition to he performed within one year may be extended
for up to one additional year). Further, should any of t!'.e
Mr. Norman Oss, President
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
November 22, 1988
Page 4
conditions not be met or substantially complied with in a
timely fashion, the Director may initiate procedures to
nullify the permit.
Please feel free to contact the Planning Department if there are
any questions on this matter.
Sincerely,
Thomas A. Krieger
Chairman, Planning Commission
xc: Department of Public Works
Departr:,ent of Water Supply
County Real Property Tax Division
State Land Dse Commission
bcc: Plan Approval Section
Hawaii County Environmental Report
Submitted with Applications for:
State Land Use Boundary Amendment
from Agriculture to Urban District
and
County Rezoning from Agricultural (A-20a)
to MG-10a
Subject Property Identified as:
HELLO Puna Generating Station
Tax Map Parcel: 1-6-03:93
Report Prepared:
October 21, 1998
Applicant and Landowner.' Prepared By:
~ CH2MHILL
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
EX~
Contents
A. SUBJECT REQUEST i
1. Details of Proposal 1
a. Subject Request and Property Description 1
_ b. Statement of Objectives and Reason for the Request 4
c. Number of Acres 4
d. Proposed Use 4
e. Time Frame and Cost 7
f. Employees and Others Using Site 7
g. Parking Arrangements 8
h. Traffic Impacts 8
i. Other Related Information 10
j. Proposed On-site and Off-site Infrastructure 10
B. CONFORMANCE WITH STATE/COUNTY PLANS
AND LAND USE DESIGNATIONS 10
2. Hawaii State Plan 10
3. State Energy Functional Plan 12
4. Applicable Goals/Policies and Objectives of the
Hawaii County General Plan 14
5. State Land Use Designation 16
6. County General Plan Designation 19
7. County Zoning 19
8. Puna District Community Development Plan 20
9. Special Management Area 20
C. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL
SETTING OF THE PROPERTY AND SURROUNDING AREA 20
10. Description of Subject Property, Location, Climate, Topography,
Slope, Soils 30
11. Lava Flow Hazard Zone 21
12. Distance from Coastline 21
13. Agricultural Lands of Importance in the State of Hawaii
(ALISH) Designation 21
14. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation
Soil Service Report Soi] Type 21
15. Land Study Bureau Soil Rating 21
16. Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) Designation ...........................................22
17. Existing Drainage Ways or Improvements 22
18. Air/Noise/Groundwater/Water Quality 22
i
Contents (cont.)
a. Air Quality 22
b. Noise 22
c. Groundwater 23
d. Water Quality 25
19. Existing Archaeological, Cultural or Historic Sites
on the National Hawaii Register 26
20. Existing Flora/Faunal Resources 26
a. Flora 26
b. Fauna 27
21. Scenic or Coastal Resources 27
22. Social Settlement Pattern for the Area 27
23. Economic Resources of the Area 28
24. Land Values 29
25. Land Use 29
26. Zoning 30
D. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES 30
27. Description of Access 30
28. Availability of Water 31
29. Wastewater Disposal 31
30. Solid and Hazazdous Wastes 31
31. Police and Fire Protection 32
32. Schools 32
33. Parks 32
34. Other Utilities and Services (telephonelelectricity) 32
E. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND ANALYSIS 32
35. Relationship Between Local Short Term Uses of Environment
and Maintenance and Enhancement of Long Term Productivity 32
36. Mitigate Measures Proposed to Avoid, Minimize, Rectify or
Reduce Impact 33
37. Alternatives to the Proposed Development 33
38. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Natural Resources
Involved if Proposed Action Implemented 33
F. AGENCY COMMENTS 34
39. Agency Comments 34
a. U.S. Department of the Interior (all comments in Appendix D)
b. State of Hawaii, Department of Agriculture
c. State of Hawaii, Department of Budget and Finance,
Housing Finance and Development Corporation
ii
Contents (cont.)
d. State of Hawaii, Department of Business, Economic Development
& Tourism
e. State of Hawaii, Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR)
f. State of Hawaii, DLNR, State Historic Preservation Division
g. State of Hawaii, Department of Health
- h. State of Hawaii, Department of Transportation
i. County of Hawaii, Department of Public Works
j. County of Hawaii, Planning Department
k. County of Hawaii, Department of Research and Development
1. County of Hawaii, Department of Water Supply
Appendixes
A Metes and Bounds Description of Subject Property
B HELCO's Puna Generation Facility Traffic Assessment by
Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc.
C Puna Generating Station, Air Quality Impacts by Jim Clary and Associates
D Agency Comment Letters
Figures
1 HELCO Puna Generating Station 2
2 HELCO Puna Generating Station Existing Improvements 3
Tables
1 HELCO Resource Plan: 1998 to 2017 5
2 Maximum Permissible Sound Levels in Decibels 23
iii
A. SUB.TECT ItEOUEST
1. Details of Proposal
a. Subject Request and Property Description _
The applicant, Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc. (HELLO), is the owner of the site
containing the Puna Generating Station. HELLO is requesting:
• State Land Use boundary amendment from the Agriculture to Urban
District (pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statute (HRS) Section 205-3.1, as
amended, and Chapter 28 of the Hawaii County Code), and
• County rezoning from Agricultural (A-20a) to MG-10a.
HELCO's Puna Generating Station is identified as Tax Map Key (TMK) 1-6-03:93.
The HELLO site is comprised of a portion of the former Puna Sugaz mill property and
a portion of a former railroad right-of-way. The HELLO site is located in the Puna
District, County of Hawaii. Figure One depicts the location of [he site. Figure Two is
a site plan of the Puna Generating Station, depicting all existing uses and structures.
Figure Two does not reflect any new structures, as there are none that are currently
planned. Appendix A is a metes and bounds description of the subject property.
Power generation was originally undertaken in conjunction with the operation of the
sugar mill that previously occupied the site. Electricity was generated for both the
sugar operations and employee-residents. Until the sugar mill ceased operations in
the early-1980s, the power generation activity was an ancillary use of a permitted
agricultural activity.
After the sugaz operations ceased, HELLO acquired a portion of the mill site to
continue generating power. In late 1988, the Hawaii County Planning Commission
approved HELCO's request for a Special Permit for the site. Special Permit No. 686
allowed HELLO to establish the electric power plant and related improvements as the
principal use of the site. The Special Permit was required, since the power generation
use was no longer an ancillary use to a permitted agricultural activity. The Special
Permit does not impose any conditions limiting the generation capacity or the mix of
related improvements on the site.
In 1992, HELLO initiated service of a 20.8-MW combustion turbine unit-three (CT-
3) generation unit at the Puna Generating Station.
(1)
Figure One
Site Map, HELLO Puna Generating Station
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(2)
Figure Two
HELCO Puna Generating Station Existing Improvements
(No Additional Improvements Currently Planned)
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.-._._._.-._'-._._._._._._._._._._._._._._._._.i
Source: Site plan provided by HECO Engineering
(3)
b. Statement of Objectives and Reason for the Request
HELCO wants to rezone the site from an agricultural zoning designation to the
County's general industrial designation. The general industrial zoning designation is
consistent with the current use of the site and the County's General Plan "Industrial"
designation for the site and surrounding area.
_ By a letter dated February 3, 1997, the County Planning Director confirmed that the
HELCO Puna Generating Station site is within the area designated as "Industrial" by
the General Plan Land Use Pattern Guide (LUPAG) Map. The letter also confirmed
that Special Permit No. 686 does not impose any conditions limiting the expansion of
the site's generation capacity and related improvements. (Letter dated February 3,
1997, from Ms. V. K. Goldstein, Planning Director, Hawaii County.)
HELCO's request for both an amendment of the State Land Use Boundary to the
Urban District, and the request for an amendment of the County's zoning designation
to general industrial conforms with the County General Plan LUPAG map designation
for the site and applicable sections of the General Plan.
c. Number of Acres
TMK 1-6-03:93 has an area of 10.5 acres, and is comprised of the 9.3-acre former
mill site and a 1.2-acre area that was part of a railroad right-of-way.
d. Proposed Use (units/lots/floor area)
HELCO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related
ancillary improvements. These are currently the use permitted by Special Permit No.
686 approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on November 15, 1988.
Generation Capacity
The Puna Power Plant site currently includes a 15.5 MW steam unit acquired from
AMFAC and a 20.8 MW combustion turbine generator (CT-3).
HELCO's most current resource plan for power-generation needs are attached as
Table One. The table is based on information set forth in a document titled "Hawaii
Electric light Company, Ltd. 1998 Electric Utility System Cost Data Filling,"
prepared by Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc., and dated June 30, 1998
The aforementioned resource plan indicates anticipated additions, retirements, and
status changes For HELCO's generation sources, including non-HELLO generation
sources, through the year 2017. HELCO's resource plan indicates that through the
year 2017, HELLO does not plan to expand the generation capacity at the Puna
(4)
Table One
HELCO Resource Plan: 1998 to 2017
Power Facility Additions and Retirements for the Island of Hawaii
As of June 30,1998
Reduced
Peak
Net with Reserve Reserve
Peak DSMj System Margin Margin Resource Capacity
Year (MW) (MW) Ca abili (MW) Penent Deacri lion Chan a Date MWS
1998 173.3 165.0 223.0 56.0 352 CT-4 Add 12/96 19.90
217.5 52S 31.8 Keahole
D-18 -19 Retire 12/98 (5.50)
237.4 72.4 43.9 CT-5 Add 12/98 19.90
234.7 69.7 422 Keahole
1120` Retire 12/96 (2.75)
1999 175.2 166.0 256.7 90.7 54.6 Famgen
Phase 1 Add 4/99 22.00
253.6 87.6 52.8 Shipman 1` Retire 4/99 (3.07)
250.6 64.6 51.0 Waimea Retire 4/99 (3.00)
D-8,9,105
242.3 76.3 46.0 Waimea Retire 4/99 (8.25)
D-12,13,145
280.3 114.3 68.9 Encogen Add 8/99 38.00
Phase 2
266.8 102.6 61.9 Kancelehua Retire 8/99 (11.50)
CT-1`
266.8 100.8 60.7 Kancelehua Retire 8/99 (2.00)
D-11`
258.6 92.6 55.8 Kancelehua Retire 8/99 (8.25)
D-15,16,17`
250.3 64.3 50.8 Keahole Retire 8/99 (825)
D-20`
235.4 69.4 41.8 Puna Standby 8/99 (14.96)
Steam`
213.4 47.4 28.5 HCPC Retire 12/99 (22.00)
Contract
termination
2000 177.2 167.0 213.4 46.4 27.8
2001 180.1 168.9 213.4 44S 26.3
(Table One, continued on next page)
(5)
Table One (continued)
HELCO Resource Plan: 1998 to 2017
Power Facility Additions and Retirements for the Island of Hawaii
As of June 30,1998
Reduced
Peak
Net with Reserve Reserve
Peak DSMr System Margin Margin Reaouree Capacity
Year IMWI (MW) Ca abili (MW) Percent Deem lion Chan a Date MW~
2002 184.0 171.9 213.4 41S 24.1
2003 188.0 174.9 228.3 53.4 30S Puna Steam Return 14.98
2004 192.2 178.0 226.3 50.3 28.3
2005 196.6 181.3 221.2 39.9 22.0 Shipman 3 Retire (7.09)
2006 201.4 186.0 237.9 51.9 27.9 ST-7 (CT-4 Add 16.70
and 5 to
DTCC)
2007 206.3 190.3 237.9 47.6 25.0
2008 211.4 194.6 230.6 36.0 185 Shipman 4 Retire (7.31)
2009 216.5 198.7 251.6 52.9 26.6 DTCT-PHl Add 20.92
(A)
2010 221.7 202.9 251.6 46.7 24.0
2011 227.4 207.7 251.6 43.8 21.1
2012 2332 212.9 2725 59.6 28.0 DTCT-PH2 Add 20.92
(A)
2013 239.2 216.4 272.5 54.1 24.8
2014 245.4 224.0 272.5 48S 21.6
2015 251.7 229.6 259.0 29.4 12.6 Hi115 Retire (13.46)
2016 258.4 235.7 277.9 422 17.9 DTCT-PH3 Add 18.90
(A)
2017 265.3 242.0 298.6 58.8 23S DTCT-PH1 Add 20.92
(B)
Abbreviations: CI =Combustion turbine; DTCT-PH# =dual-train first or second CT; DTCC-PH# =dual train combined
cycle
'Net peaks are from HELCO "Recommended Annual G1Nlt Sales and Net Peak Forecast;' dated September 11,1997.
r Reduced peak is net peak less impact from DSM, HMEC, and off-peak rider contracts. DSM impact values are from
HELCO's second IRP process (IItP-98) and include the following: (a) Residential Effident Water Heating Program (REWH)
-PUC Docket No. 95-0173; (b) Commercial and Industrial Energy Effioency Program (CIEE) - PUC Dxket No. 95-0174;
(c) Commercial and Industrial New Construction Program (CINC) -PUC Docket No. 95-0175; and (d) Commerdal and
Industrial Customized Rebate Program (CICR) -PUC Docket No. 95-01736.
~ System capability and generating resource capacities shown as net to HELCO system.
~ Keahole D-18 and D-19 are schedule for retirement when CT-4 is put into service as a condition of the CT-4 air permitting
requirements. Keahole D-20 is retired when CT-5 is installed and Keahole D-21 is restricted in operations as part of the
netting ovt for the air permit.
Keahole D-18 and D-19 are schedule fot retirement when CT-4 is put into service as a conditions of the CT-4
s HELCO's current plans are to retire Kancelehua D-11,15-17, cT-1 and Keahole D-21-73 upon the installation of Encogen
phase 2. Also upon Encogen phase 2 installation, HELCO plans to place the Puna steam unit on cold standby with no
ca aci valve. The Puna Steam unit is scheduled to return to service in 2003 to defer the need for ST-7.
Source: "Hawaii Electric Light Company, Ltd. 1996 Electric Utility System Cost Data Filling," prepared
by Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc., June 30,1998.
(6)
Generating Station site. The only changes currently anticipated at the Puna Station is
placing the 15.5 MW steam generation unit on a cold standby status in 1999, and
returning the steam unit to active status in the yeaz 2003.
While HELCO's current resource plan does not reflect increasing the generation
capacity at the Puna Generating Station through the yeaz 2017, the generation capacity
at the site may be increased sometime in the future after the year 2017. Further,
changes in the assumptions used to prepare the resource plan could lead also to
changes in the generation capacity needed by HELLO at the Puna site prior to the year
_ 2017.
Related Improvements
Related improvements include non-generating and ancillary uses at HELCO's Puna
Generating Station. These include fuel storage, water pumps and storage, a
switchyazd, and transmission lines and related facilities.
HELLO currently has no plans to add any related improvements at the Puna
Generating Station. However, these may be increased at some yet unspecified time in
the future.
e. Time Frame and Cost
Since HELLO currently has no plans to increase the generation capacity or to expand
the related improvements at the Puna Generating Station, the time frame and cost are
not relevant.
f. Employees and Others Using Site
HELCO's current full- and part-time staffing for the Puna Generating Station consists
of three shifts with two employees per shift. Other HELLO staff visits the site, as
required by specific tasks. HELLO also occasionally has contractors working at the
site for specific tasks.
County Water Department staff occasionally service the department's facilities
located within the HELLO site. There are not any Water Department personnel
assigned to the site on a full- or part-time basis.
The site has a security fence and a locked security entry gate. The fence and gate are
to preclude unauthorized personnel and vehicles from entering the site. The fence
generally follows the site's property line, although along Keaau Road the fence is set
back from the property line.
(7)
g. Pazking Arrangements
The site has on-site paved and graveled areas within the fenced portion of the site to
meet the pazking requirements of the County zoning code. No off-site pazking is
required or contemplated.
h. Traffic Impacts
Existing Conditions
- The primary access to the Puna Generating Station site is from Mamalahoa Highway
via Keaau Road. Mamalahoa Highway (State Route 11, elsewhere referred to as
Routes 19 and 190, and also known as Hawaii Belt Road) is a major arterial serving
most of the Island of Hawaii. Within the vicinity of the HELLO site, Mamalahoa
Highway is afour-lane highway that runs generally in the north-south direction.
Keaau Road is a private road providing access from Old Volcano Road to the existing
HELLO Generating Station. The two-lane Old Volcano Road runs parallel and east
of Mamalahoa Highway. Keaau Road crosses Old Volcano Road.
The current staffing of the generating station consists of three shifts with two
employees per shift. Diesel fuel deliver currently is comprised of 21 to 49 trips per
week.
Weekday morning (AM) and afternoon (PM) period traffic counts were conducted by
Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc. (ATA) at two intersections in the morning and
evening peak period on March 19 and 20, 1997. Appendix B is the ATA report of the
traffic analysis titled "HELCO's Puna Generation Facility Traffic Assessment." The
two intersections analyzed in the report aze Keaau Road and Mamalahoa Highway,
and Keaau Road and Old Volcano Road. The following summarizes the report's
findings:
• During the morning AM peak period, the peak direction of traffic flow on
Mamalahoa Highway is in the northbound direction with approximately 2,640
vehicles during the peak hour and approximately 640 peak hour vehicles in the
southbound direction. During the afternoon PM peak period, the peak direction of
flow is in the opposite direction with approximately 1,800 peak hour vehicles in
the southbound direction and approximately 770 peak hour vehicles in the
northbound direction.
• It was observed that during the PM peak period, a relatively high number of
southbound vehicles (267 vehicles per hour (vph)) on Mamalahoa Highway turn
left onto Keaau Road and then turn right onto Old Volcano Road. It is assumed
that most of these motorists aze bound for the residential areas of Keaau Town.
• Based on the existing traffic count data, the number of vehicles that utilizes Keaau
Road serving the HELLO facility area is relatively low. During the AM peak
(8)
hour, only 46 vph with 12 vph in the westbound and 34 in eastbound direction
were observed. During the PM peak hour, only 33 vph utilize Keaau Road with
27 in the westbound direction and 6 in the eastbound directions.
• Level of Service (LOS) is a qualitative measure used to describe the conditions of
traffic flow, ranging from free-flow conditions at LOS "A" to congested
conditions at LOS "F." The methods utilized in the ATA traffic analysis for
calculating delays and corresponding levels of service at stop-controlled
intersections are based on the 1994 Hi~hwav Capacity Manual -Special Reaon
_ 209.
• The ATA traffic analysis indicates that during the AM peak hour, the southbound
left-turn from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road is operating at LOS F. Long
delays to this particular movement are mainly due [o the number of northbound
opposing vehicles on Mamalahoa Highway. The westbound left-tum from Keaau
Road to Mamalahoa Highway is also operating at LOS F during the AM peak
hour, but this only affects a small number of vehicles (only one vehicle during the
peak hour was observed). The remaining movements at both intersections are
operating at acceptable levels of services (LOS A, B, C or D).
• Based on existing traffic volumes plus expected ambient growth in traffic caused
by regional growth throughout the Island of Hawaii, traffic growth is anticipated
to be 1% per year. In the year 2001, the peak hour operations at both intersections
are expected to be similar to existing 1997 operating conditions.
• ATA recommends that no improvements are necessary at the intersections of
Mamalahoa Highway and Keaau Road. Although the westbound left-turn is
currently operating at an undesirable level of service, only a small number of
vehicles are affected. And although the southbound left-turn from Mamalahoa to
Keaau Road is operating at an undesirable level of service, this only occurs during
the morning peak period when the opposing northbound approach is heavy.
Based on the traffic counts conducted by ATA, most of these vehicles are bound
for Keaau Town, which can also be accessed by Ahoa Street and Kalapana Road
further south.
Keaau Bypass Road
The State Department of Transportation, Highways Division, is currently constructing
the first phase of a two-phase project comprised of a four-lane bypass road routing
Keaau-Pahoa (State Highway 130) traffic around the Keaau Town. An environmental
assessment (EA) was prepared for the project's proposals, and a "Notice of
Determination Negative Declaration" was completed and accepted in December 1995
for the Keaau-Pahoa bypass road, State Department of Transportation, Highways
Division Project No. 130-B-01-92.
(9)
The alternative selected for the 2.2-mile project will begin on the Keaau-Pahoa Road,
in the vicinity of the fotmer plantation manager's house (now referred to as Banyan
Inn) proceed between 8-1/2 Mile Camp and the Milo Street neighborhood, and return
to Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway) at Keaau Road.
A traffic analysis for the Keaau-Pahoa Road EA was prepared by Barton-Aschman
Associates, Inc., and is dated December 1993. The traffic report indicates that if the
bypass road were not built, significant improvements would have been required on
Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway). The Keaau-Pahoa Road EA traffic analysis also
_ indicates that construction of the bypass road will favorably impact the road
intersections serving the HELCO Puna Generating Station and improve the LOS at
the intersection of Keaau Road and Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway).
Telephone conversations with a representative (personal conversations with Robert
Taira, Design Engineer, May 6 and 8, 1998) of the State Department of
Transportation, Highways Division, indicates that the bypass road intersection at
Route 11 (Mamalahoa Highway) will be fully signalized with right- and left-turn
lanes and acceleration and deceleration lanes. For traffic fuming onto Keaau Road
from the bypass road, there will be deceleration lanes and turning pockets with a stop
sign for left turns on to Keaau Road. For traffic turning from Keaau Road onto the
bypass road, a stop sign will be located on Keaau Road and acceleration lanes will be
constructed on the new highway.
i. Other Related Information
There is no other related information.
j. Proposed On-site and Off-site Infrastructure
There is no on- or off-site infrastructure that would be impacted.
B. CONFORMANCE WITH STATE/COUNTY PLANS AND LAND USE
DESIGNATIONS
2. Hawaii State Plan
HELCO's proposed reclassification of the Puna Generating station site conforms to the
applicable goals, objectives, and policies of the Hawaii State Plan.
The Hawaii State Plan, Chapter 226, "Hawaii Revised Statutes," is a guide for future
long-range development. It identifies the goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the
State; allocates limited resources; improves coordination among federal, state, and county
agencies; and establishes a system for integrating all major state and county activities.
Section 226-14 of the State Plan, Objectives and Policies for Facility Systems applies, in
general, to the proposed project and states the following:
(10)
a. Planning for the State's facility systems in general shall be directed towards
achievement of the objective of water, transportation, waste disposal, and
energy and telecommunication systems that support statewide social,
economic, and physical objectives.
b. To achieve the general facility system objective, it shall be the policy of this
State to:
1. Accommodate the needs of Hawaii's people through coordination of
facility systems and capital improvement priorities in consonance with
- state and county plans
2. Encourage flexibility in the design and development of
facility systems
to promote prudent use of resources and accommodate changing
public demands and priorities
3. Ensure that required facility systems can be supported within resource
capacities and at reasonable cost to the user
4. Pursue alternative methods of
financing programs and projects and
cost-saving techniques in the planning, construction, and maintenance
of
facility systems.
The HELCO Puna Generating Station will contribute to meeting the demand for
electricity on the Island of Hawaii and to maintaining and improving system reliability.
Section 226-18 of the Hawaii State Plan, "Objectives and Policies for Facility Systems
Energy/Telecommunications," applies specifically to the project and states the following:
a. Planning for the State's facility systems with regard to energy shall be
directed towards the achievement of the following objectives:
1. Dependable, effecient, and economical statewide energy systems
capable of supporting the needs of the people
2. Increased energy self-sufficiency where the ratio of indigenous to
imported energy use is increased; and
3. Greater energy security in the face of threats to Hawaii's energy
supplies and systems.
b. To achieve the energy objectives, it shall be the policy of this State to ensure
the provision of adequate, reasonably priced, and dependable power and
telecommunication services to accommodate demand.
c. To further achieve the energy objectives, it shall be the policy of this State to:
1. Support research and development as well as promote the use of
renewable energy sources;
2. Ensure that the combination of energy supplies and energy-saving
systems are sufficient to support the demands of growth;
(11)
3. Base decisions of least-cost supply-side and demand-side energy
resource options on a comparison of their total costs and benefits when
a least-cost is determined by a reasonably comprehensive, quantitative,
and qualitative accounting of their long-term, direct and indirect
economic, environmental, social, cultural, and public health costs and
benefits;
4. Promote all cost-effective conservation of power and fuel supplies
through measures including:
_ A. Development of cost-effective demand-side management
programs;
B. Education; and
C. Adoption ofenergy-efficient practices and technologies;
5. Ensure to the extent that new supply-side resources are needed, the
development or expansion of energy systems utilizes the least-cost
energy supply option and maximizes efficient technologies;
6. Support research, development, and demonstration of energy efficiency,
load management, and other demand-side management programs,
practices, and technologies; and
7. Promote alternative fuels and energy efficiency by encouraging
diversification of transportation modes and infrastructure.
The Puna Generating Station, in the context of HELCO's integrated approach to energy
production and conservation, conforms to these objectives and policies. At this time,
alternative fuels and technologies do not represent the least-cost energy supply option or
the maximum efficient technology. HELCO is also actively participating in education
and research programs to further develop alternative fuels and technologies in Hawaii.
3. State Energy Functional Plan
HELCO's proposed reclassification of the Puna Generating station site conforms to the
applicable priority guidelines of the Hawaii State Plan and the adopted functional plans.
The Hawaii State Plan requires the development of State Functional Plans (SFPs). While
the Hawaii State Plan establishes long-term objectives for Hawaii, the SFPs delineate the
specific strategies and prioritize actions that need to be addressed in the short term.
The objectives of the State Energy Functional Plan (1991) are to achieve dependable,
efficient, and economical statewide energy systems capable of supporting the needs of the
people and to increase energy self-sufficiency.
The major issues identified in the Plan that apply to the Puna Generating Station are
discussed below. The Puna Generating Station meets the objectives related to energy
conservation, energy efficiency, and alternative and renewable energy; however, it does
not address the objective of furthering energy self-sufficiency.
(12)
Energy conservation and efficiency can reduce the dependence on imported fossil fuels
and overall energy demand. To achieve this, an Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) was
developed and approved by the Public Utility Commission (PUC). Integrated Resource
Planning is the process of developing, implementing, monitoring, and evaluating a utility
resource plan that identifies an optimum mix of energy resources for meeting forecasted
levels of consumer energy needs. Demand-Side Management (DSM) programs, which
are a component of the IRP, were designed to influence customer consumption of
electricity in a manner that will produce changes in the utility's demand. Potential
programs include conservation, energy efficiency, load management, and fuel
- substitution. The energy conservation and efficiency policy and action items pertaining to
the Puna Generating Station are as follows:
Policy A(I Promote and Stimulate Greater Energy Efficiency and Conservation in
Non-Transportation Sectors
Action A(I)(a): Provide Technical Support and Assistance to the State
Government, County Governments, the PUC, and The Energy Utilities in
Developing the Integrated Resource Planning (IRP) Process and Carrying
Out Demand-Side Management (DSM) Assessments.
Action A(I)(b): Advance the Use of Demand-Side Management (DSM) by
Creating Pilot Programs and Promoting Education of Local Energy
Producers and Users.
Through the IRP process, HELCO has developed along-range energy plan for Hawaii
County. The IRP developed energy plan considers both the traditional supply-side
resources and the customer (demand-side) resources that are available. IItP has brought
about changes in the way utilities conduct their business, by including demand-side
options as a resource and by having the public participate in the planning process through
advisory groups. HELCO formed an advisory group representing business, government,
environmental, cultural, and community groups. Those groups with a special interest in
energy issues, as well as individuals who could lend special expertise to the process, were
included.
The advisory group met several times during the plan development process. The
meetings covered such areas as organizational issues, forecasting, demand-side resources,
supply-side resources, and the IRP objectives and principles. Public meetings were also
held to present the forecasted sales and peak demand, identify DSM and supply-side
resource options, and to obtain feedback into the IItP process. These public meetings
were also intended to introduce the IRP process to the general public so that they may
have a better understanding of the participatory process.
The IItP programs provide peak-demand saving. However, because energy efficiency and
peak capacity reductions have not been comprehensively pursued by any organization in
Hawaii to date, there is considerable uncertainty about how to structure the DSM
programs. Monitoring of the implementation process will be important, and programs
will need to be adjusted as the implementation process moves forward. HELCO expects
(13)
to update its DSM program plans annually to optimize program implementation and
energy savings.
The State is encouraging development of alternative and renewable energy sources as
Hawaii's primary energy source. These resources include geothermal, ocean thermal
(OTEC), solar photovoltaic, biomass, wind, and hydropower. Although the State has
made progress in alternative energy technologies, only geothermal currently provides a
potential for firm, reliable electricity. It is the only commercially mature indigenous
resource available in large quantities that can be converted to baseload (24-hour-per-day)
_ electricity. Other alternative energy resources, such as solaz and wind technologies, do
not provide firm, baseload power and are not economically feasible at this time.
HELCO has contributed to and constructed facilities for alternative and renewable energy
resources, such as wind and hydroelectric power. HELCO also provides rebates to
commercial users who install solar power units. HELCO also has power purchase
contracts with independent power producers. These power purchase contracts are based
on alternative and renewable technologies. Examples include sugaz cane bagasse and
coal-fueled steam turbine generators. While extensive dependence on such contracts can
increase supply risks, HELCO has evaluated and continues to evaluate IPP alternatives
and renewable energy power supply offers.
4. Applicable Goals/Policies and Objectives of the Hawaii County General Plan
A County Ordinance with an effective date of November 14, 1989, amended the Hawaii
County General Plan. The General Plan has goals, policies and standards for 13 topics:
economic, environmental quality, flood control and drainage, historic sites, natural
beauty, natural resources and shoreline, housing, public facilities, public utilities,
recreation, transportation, and land use. HELCO's request for both an amendment of the
State Land Use Boundary to the Urban District, and the request for an amendment of the
County's zoning designation to general industrial conforms with the County General Plan
LUPAG map designation for the site and applicable sections of the General Plan. The
following are the goals, policies, and standards that apply to this project:
Energy
Policies
• The County shall strive to assure a sufficient supply of energy to
support present and future demands.
Standards
• New power plants shall incorporate devices which minimize
pollution
Public Utilities
Goals
• Ensure that adequate, efficient and dependable public utility services will
be available ro users
• Maximize efficiency and economy in the provision of public utility services
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• To have public utility facilities which are designed to fit into their
surroundings or concealed from public view
Policies
• Public utility facilities shall be designed so as to complement adjacent
land uses and shall be operated so as to minimize pollution or
disturbance.
• Provide utilities and service facilities that minimize total cost to the
public and effectively service the needs of the community.
• Utility facilities shall be designed to minimize conflict with the natural
- environment and natural resources.
• Improvement of existing utility services shall be encouraged to meet
the needs of users.
• The County shall develop short- and long-range capital improvement
programs and plans for public utilities within its jurisdiction and
which are consistent with the County General Plan.
Electricity
Policies
• The County should encourage electrical utility companies to develop a
comprehensive plan for the generation, transmission, and distribution
of electrical power to the various parts of the Islands.
Standards
• There shall be a minimization of obstruction of scenic views and
vistas by electrical facilities.
Land Use
Goals
• Designate and allocate land uses in appropriate proportions and mix and
in keeping with the social, cultural, and physical environments of the
County.
Policies
• Zone urban- and rural-types of uses in areas with ease of access to
community service and employment centers and with adequate public
utilities and facilities.
• Promote encourage the rehabilitation and use of urban and rural
areas which are services by basic community facilities and utilities.
Industrial Land Use
Goals
• Designate and allocate industrial areas in appropriate proportions and in
keeping with the social, cultural, and physical environment of the County.
• Promote and encourage the rehabilitation of industrial areas that are
serviced by basic community facilities and utilities.
Policies
• Through its zoning powers, the County shall locate industrial areas
convenient to transportation facilities, and provide a variety of
(15)
industrial zoned districts and lot sizes, depending on the needs of the
industries and the communities.
5. State Land Use Designation
The site of the Puna Generating Station is currently designated by the State Land Use
Commission (LUC) as part of the state's "Agricultural" district. HELCO is requesting
through the County, an amendment of the site's Land Use District designation to the
Urban District. The processing of the boundary amendment through the County is
_ pursuant to Hawaii Revised Statute (HRS) Section 205-3.1, as amended, and Chapter 28
of the Hawaii County Code. They allow the County to amend State Land Use district
boundaries for lands IS acres or less located in the State Land Use Urban, Rural, and
Agricultural Districts.
HELCO's request for an amendment of the State Land Use Boundary to the Urban
District is reasonable and does not violate the standards for the Urban District of the State
Land Use Boundaries as set forth in HRS 205-2.
The standards used by the LUC for determining Urban District boundaries, as listed in HAR
15-15-18, and the relationship of the proposed project to them are discussed below.
1 It shall include lands characterized by "city-like" concentrations of people,
structures, streets, urban level of services and other related land uses.
2. It shall take into consideration the following specific factors:
A. Proximity to centers of trading and employment except where the
development would generate new centers of trading and employment
B. Substantiation of economic feasibility by the petitioner
C. Proximity to basic services such as sewers, transportation systems,
water, sanitation, schools, parks, and police and fire protection
D. Sufficient reserve areas for urban growth in appropriate locations
based on a ten-year projection
3. It shall include lands with satisfactory topography and drainage and
reasonably free from the danger of
floods, tsunami, unstable soil conditions,
and other adverse environmental e,~`ects.
4. In determining urban growth for the next ten years, or in amending the
boundary, land contiguous with existing urban areas shall be given more
consideration than non-contiguous land, and particularly when indicated for
future urban use on state or county general plans.
5. It shall include lands in appropriate locations for new urban concentrations
and shall give consideration to areas of urban growth as shown on the state
and county general plans.
6. It may include lands which do nor conform to the standards in paragraphs
1 to 5:
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A. When surrounded by or adjacent to existing urban development
B. Only when those lands represent a minor portion of this district
7. It shall not include lands, the urbanization of which will contribute toward
scattered spot urban development, necessitating unreasonable investment in
public infrastructure or support services.
8. It may include lands with a general slope of twenty percent or more which do
not provide open space amenities or scenic values if the commission finds that
those lands are desirable and suitable for urban purposes and that official
_ design and construction controls are adequate ro protect the public health,
welfare and safety, and the public's interest in the aesthetic quality of the
landscape.
The Puna Generating Site is currently a heavy industrial use that reflects the continuation
of a use established by the sugaz operations that were discontinued in the 1980s.
Slopes on the project site are minimal. The site does not lie in any flood or tsunami zones.
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conservation Service Soil
Survey Report classifies the soils in the vicinity of the site as being in the Olaa series, and
specifically the Olaa Silty Clay Loam (OaC). This series is characterized by moderately
deep, moderately fine soil. Permeability is rapid, runoff is slow, and the erosion hazazd
slight.
A culvert adjacent to the road serving the site drains into a drainage ditch pazallel to the
road. Standard on-site drainage improvements would accommodate any future
intensification of the use of the site. HELCO will comply with all applicable regulations
governing drainage.
The location of the project site does not represent a significant adverse impact to scenic views
or vistas, nor does it cause a significant adverse impact on the aesthetic quality of the
landscape.
The use of the site for generation and distribution of electricity does not significantly diminish
the available supply of land used for agricultural activities, nor will it have any adverse impact
on the remaining adjacent agricultural uses.
The proposed project will not require extension of existing County or State infrastructure
to the site and the project will not have any impact that will require the expenditure of
public funds for infrastructure.
HELCO and the Hawaii County Department of Water Supply (DWS) have sepazate
groundwater wells on the Puna Generating Station site.
The HELCO Puna Generating site has a minimal impact on any requirement for police
and fire protection.
(17)
The site has no significant adverse impact on regional traffic and there is no mitigation
measure recommended.
The continued use of the site to generate and distribute electricity will not directly cause
additional population growth on the Island of Hawaii.
HECO is a subsidiary of Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc. (HECO), a company with
publicly traded stock. The Public Utilities Commission (PUC) regulates HELCO. As a
subsidiary of a publicly traded company, HELCO has access to the economic resources
_ required to develop the project. HELCO can request the authority from the PUC to make
expenditures for construction of the proposed facility and to recapture costs through the
electricity rates paid by HELCO's customers. HECO is also able to issue bonds and stock
to finance the project. No such request is contemplated in conjunction with this
application.
The reclassification of the site [o the Urban district will no[ impact the provision of sufficient
service areas for other urban growth requirements. Approval of the "Urban" district
designation would be consistent with approved urban land use reclassifications in the
immediate vicinity of Keaau. The reclassification of the site to the Urban district will not
contribute to scattered spot urban development, as it is in the midst of areas with urban
type uses, and is adjacent to and in close proximity to existing urban designated lands and
facilities.
In addition to the standards for the Urban District set forth in HAR 15-15-18, the LUC
considers specific criteria in making their decision as outlined in HAR 15-15-77. Those
decision-making criteria for boundary amendments and the relationship of the proposed
project to them are outlined below.
I. The extent to which the proposed reclassification conforms to the goals,
objectives, and policies of the Hawaii State Plan and relates to the applicable
priority guidelines of the Hawaii State Plan and the adopted functional plans.
2. The extent to which the proposed reclassification conforms to the applicable
district standards.
3. The impact of the proposed reclassification on the following areas of state
concern:
A. Preservation or maintenance of important natural systems or habitats
B. Maintenance of valued cultural, historical, or natural resources
C. Maintenance of other natural resources relevant to Hawaii's economy
including, but not limited to agricultural resources
D. Commitment of state funds and resources
E. Provision for employment opportunities and economic development
F. Provision for housing opportunities for all income groups, particularly the
low, low-moderate, and gap groups
4. In establishing the boundaries of the districts in each county, the commission shall
give consideration to the general plan of the county in which the land is located.
(18)
The Hawaii State Plan is a guide for future long-range development. It identifies the
goals, objectives, policies, and priorities for the State; allocates limited resources;
improves coordination among federal, state, and county agencies; and establishes a
system for integrating all major state and county activities. The extent to which the
HII.CO site conforms with the Hawaii State Plan and its related functional Plans and the
extent to which the project conforms with the provisions of the County General Plan are
discussed in preceding sections of this report.
Site investigations and reconnaissance as well as consultation with the applicable
- agencies revealed no significant natural resources, habitats, cultural, or historic resources
at the project site. The generating station has not and will not have a significant adverse
impact on any environmental resources.
The reclassification of the site to the Urban district will not entail the removal of agricultural
land from active production.
HELCO's current full- and part-time staffing for the Puna Generating Station consists of
three shifts with two employees per shift. Other HELLO staff visits the site, as required
by specific tasks. The production of electricity provided by the Puna Generating Station will
support the continued economic expansion of the Island of Hawaii and provide the necessary
energy to support affordable housing programs as they are developed
HELLO does not require expenditures by either the State of Hawaii or the County of Hawaii.
HELLO is seeking to rezone the site to the County's general industrial district (MG), with
a minimum lot size of 10 acres (MG-l0a). The County's general industrial district allows
uses that are consistent with the power generating use established at the Puna Generating
Station. HELLO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related
ancillary improvements. (These are currently the use permitted by Special Permit No.
686 approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on November 15, 1988.)
6. County General Plan Designation
A letter dated February 3, 1997, from the County Planning Director confirms "that
HELCO's Puna Generating Station is located within the area designated as
`Industrial' by the General Plan Land Use Pattern Guide (LUPAG) Map"
HELCO's request for both an amendment of the State Land Use Boundary to the Urban
District, and the request for an amendment of the County's zoning designation to general
industrial conforms with the County General Plan LUPAG map designation for the site
and applicable sections of the General Plan.
7. County Zoning
The site is currently designated in the County's agricultural zoning district, and is zoned
A-20.
(19)
HELCO is seeking to rezone the site to the County's general industrial district (MG), with
a minimum lot size of 10 acres (MG-l0a). The County's general industrial district allows
uses that are consistent with the power generating use established at the Puna Generating
Station. HELCO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related
ancillary improvements. (These are currently the use permitted by Special Permit No.
686 approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on November 15, 1988.)
The uses permitted in the County's general industrial district do not violate the standards
for the Urban District of the State Land Use Boundaries as set forth in HRS 205-2.
The HELCO site is slightly over 10 acres in size. Under the current and the requested
zoning, HELCO will not be able to subdivide the site.
8. Puna District Community Development Plan
Community Management Associates, Inc. prepared the Puna Community Development
Plan draft in June 1992. The County did not adopt the draft.
9. Special Management Area
The site is not located within the area designated as the Special Management Area of the
County of Hawaii, pursuant to Chapter 205A, Hawaii Revised Statutes, and applicable
administrative rules of the County Planning Commission.
C. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS AND ENVIRONMENTAL SETTING OF THE
PROPERTY AND SURROUNDING AREA
Physical Characteristics/Environmental Setting
10. Description of Subject Property, Location, Climate, Topography, Slope, Soils (including
size, shape, existing structures)
The subject property is identified as TMK 1-6-03:93. It encompasses a total of 10.5
acres, and it has, to an extent, a triangular shape. The HELCO site is located at Keaau in
the Puna District, County of Hawaii. The primary access to the Puna Generating Station
site is from Mamalahoa Highway by Keaau Road.
The site is located near the 300-foot elevation. The site is generally level with no
significant grade or on-site undulations. The mean annual rainfall in the area ranges
between 125 to 175 inches.
Prior to HELCO acquiring the subject site, it was extensively disturbed by activity related
to on-site grading and fill, construction, vehicular traffic, and sugar mill and related
operations.
(20)
HELCO owned structures and improvements on the site are related to electrical
generation and distribution. In addition to HELCO's structures, the County Water
Department also has two water wells, a chlorinator, storage and pump facilities, and 10-
inch diameter service lines.
11. Lava Flow Hazard Zone
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) has established volcanic hazard zones for
the Island of Hawaii for long-term planning purposes. The lava flow hazard zone
_ designations are based on the percentage of the potential flow area that has been covered
by lava flows during specific time periods, the frequency of past eruptive events, and the
assumption that the rate of current volcanic activity will continue for the next several
decades. Zone 1 reflects the greatest volcanic hazard and Zone 9, the lowest. The Puna
Generating Station is located within Lava Flow Hazard Zone 3, which is also the zone
designation applicable to Hilo.
The entire Island of Hawaii is susceptible to earthquakes originating in fault zones under
and adjacent to the island. The County Building Code designates the entire Island of
Hawaii as being within the Earthquake Zone 3 (based on a scale of zones with increasing
risk from 0 to 4, due to seismic occurrence and danger). The Zone 3 designation requires
that structural design requirements be met in conjunction with the design and construction
of any structure.
12. Distance from Coastline
The site is over 3 miles from the nearest coastline.
13. Agricultural Lands of Importance in the State of Hawaii (ALISH) Designation
Consultation with the State Department of Agriculture indicates that the Agricultural
Lands of Importance [o the State of Hawaii (ALISH) system do not have an ALISH rating
for the site on map H-66, dated January 1977.
14. United States Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Services Soil
Service Report Soil Type
The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Soil Conservation Service Soil
Survey Report classifies the soils in the vicinity of the site as being in the Olaa series, and
specifically the Olaa Silty Clay Loam (OaC). This series is characterized by moderately
deep, moderately fine soil. Permeability is rapid, runoff is slow, and the erosion hazard
slight.
15. Land Study Bureau Soil Rating
Consultation with the State Department of Agriculture indicates that the Land Study
Bureau Detailed Land Classification, Island of Hawaii (November 1965, map 654)
indicates that the site has a "U" or urban use rating, reflecting the industrial use of the
(21)
area. Former sugarcane lands surrounding the former Puna mill site have an overall
productive rating of "C" indicating fair productivity potential for most crops.
16. Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) Designation
The United States Army Corps of Engineers' Flood Insurance Rate Man (FIRM)
designates the site as "Zone C: ' Zone C is an area characterized with minimal flooding.
17. Existing Drainage Ways or Improvements
A culvert adjacent to the road serving the site drains into a drainage ditch parallel to the
road. Standard on-site drainage improvements would accommodate any future
intensification of the use of the site. HELCO will comply with all applicable regulations
governing drainage.
18. Air/Noise/Groundwater/Water Quality
a. Air Quality
HELCO Generating Station is in compliance with all applicable federal and state
regulations related to air quality. Appendix C is a report titled "Puna Generating Station,
Air Quality Impacts," prepared by Jim Clary and Associates.
b. Noise
Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO) personnel measured background ambient noise
levels at the Puna Generating Station. HECO's measurements indicate that the Puna
Generating Station is in compliance with the State DOH 70 dBA standard at the property
lines.
Title 11, Chapter 46 Community Noise Control, adopted by the State Department of
Health (DOH) in September 1996. On the Island of Hawaii, the DOH regulates noise
from on-site activities. State DOH noise regulations are expressed in maximum
allowable property line noise limits for areas zoned preservation residential,
apartmenUcommercial, and agriculturaUindustrial. The noise limits established for these
zoning classes are shown in Table Two.
These noise limits cannot be exceeded for more than 2 minutes in any 20-minute time
period. Because the project site and surrounding areas are located on lands zoned for
agricultural use, the DOH noise limits are 70 dBA for both the daytime and nighttime
periods.
(22)
Table Two
Maximum Permissible Sound Levels in Decibels (dBA)
Zoning
Class A Class B Class C
Residential and Apartment, Hotel, Agriculture,
Time Preservation and Business Industrial
Daytime (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.) 55 fi0 70
Nighttime (10 p.m. to 7 a.m.) 45 50 70
Notes:
a) Standards shall apply to the following excessive noise sources: stationary noise sources and
equipment related to conswction, agriculture, and industrial activities.
b) Maximum permissible sound levels shall apply to any excessive noise source emanating within
the specified zoning district, and at any point at or beyond the property line of the premises.
c) Noise levels shall not exceed the allowable levels for more than 10 percent of the time (L~o)
within any 20-minute period, except by permit or variance issued under HAR 11-06-7 and 11-
46-8.
d) The allowable noise for impulsive sound shall be 10 dBA above the values in this table.
Nawaii Administrative Rules, Title 1 Chapter 46
Construction noise also falls under permitted activities that can exceed the levels shown
in Table Two for a specified period of time. There are, however, permit restrictions for
construction activities. These are:
• No construction activities that produce noise levels in excess of the values in
Table Two at or beyond the property line are allowed before 7 a.m. or after 6 p.m.,
Monday through Friday.
• No construction activities that produce noise levels in excess of the permissible
sound levels shown in Table Two at or beyond the property line are allowed for
the hours before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. on Saturdays.
• No construction activities that exceed the noise levels specified in Table Two are
allowed on Sundays and on holidays.
c. Groundwater
HECO environmental department personnel support HELCO in matters related to federal
and state regulation related to groundwater. HECO indicates that the HELCO Generating
Station is in compliance with all applicable federal and state regulations related to
groundwater.
(23)
The Puna Generating Station is situated over the Keaau Aquifer System. The Hilo-Keaau
region is underlain by relatively young lava flows, mostly less than 10,000 years old, from
Mauna Loa. Regionally, the lavas are highly permeable, and lazge volumes of
groundwater under low gradients pass through them. At the Puna Generating Station, all
data indicators suggest that groundwater is pazabasal, and that the saturated aquifer is
bounded below by an aquitazd, which is probably an ash bed. Parabasal groundwater is
hydraulically connected to the basal lens but rests on a low permeability stratum rather
than seawater. The estimated boundary between basal and parabasal ground water lies
about 1.3 miles east of the Puna Generating Plant and passes through Paradise Pazk.
- Parabasal groundwater is hydraulically connected to the basal lens but rests on a low
permeability stratum rather than seawater. The HELLO and DWS wells at the Puna
Generating Station have never displayed salinity of more than 10 parts per million.
(Source: Unpublished report tilted "Pena Water Resources Investigations and
Permitting..." Mink and Yuen, Inc., September 1996.)
The State Water Resources Protection Plan (Volume II Appendix, 1990, by G.A.L. Yuen
and Associates) indicates that over the 8 miles between Hilo and the contact of Mauna
Loan and Kilauea lavas neaz the Puna Power Plant, approximately 1,700 million gallons
per day (mgd) of fresh groundwater flow either in a seaward direction or southwazd into
the Kilauea Aquifer Sector. The Water Resource Protection Plan indicates that for the
Hilo Aquifer System, rechazge is 793 mgd and for the Keaau Aquifer System, it is 898
mgd. Estimates by Takasaki indicate that 1,000 mgd moves southwazd into the Kilauea
Sector, leaving 700 mgd to dischazge from Mauna Loa lavas along the coast.
The Groundwater Protection Plan indicates that the sustainable yields for the Hilo
Aquifer System and the Keaau Aquifer System are 347 and 393 mgd, respectively.
(Source: Ibid., Mink and Yuen, Inc., September 1996.) Data available from various
published and public sources indicates that the current draw from the Keaau Aquifer is
less then 20 mgd. Data from the State Commission on Water Resource Management
indicates that the capacity of existing wells in the aquifer total 27 mgd.
HELLO and the Hawaii County Depaztment of Water Supply (DWS) have sepazate
groundwater wells on the Puna Generating Station site. The following describes the
HELLO and DWS wells and ancillary system components.
• HELLO
Information provided by HELLO indicates that the three HELLO wells on the
generating station site use an average of 12.1 million gallons per day (mdg). HELLO
uses groundwater for cooling water pumps, to cool fans, generators, the existing
combustion turbine, compressors, pumps, air heater wash, various fire hoses on each
floor, and all the wash-down and cooling needs.
HELLO provides water to the adjacent papaya operation, which was previously
owned by AMFAC, prior owner of the HELLO site. The papaya operation also uses
DWS water service provided through a meter located on the generating station site.
(24)
During periods when I;~I,CO's steam plant is not operating and/or when HELLO
shuts down the three deep wells, the papaya operation provides HELLO county water
to supply the various cooling water pumps and to meet HELCO's other water needs at
the Puna Generating Station.
Information provided by HELLO also indicates that use of groundwater by the Puna
Generating Station has no adverse affect or impact on the underlying aquifer.
Information provided by HELLO indicates that HELLO currently complies with and
in the future will continue to comply with all state and federal requirements applicable
- to the use of groundwater.
DWS
DWS has two wells on the generating station site, Olaa wells A and B. In addition,
DWS has a chlorinator station and pipeline easements on the site.
Water from Olaa wells A and B and water from a third DWS well, Olaa C (located at
a site up gradient of the generating station near the former dispensary camp) is
providing water to DWS customers in the Keaau-Mountain service area. This system
has a linear service area essentially following the alignment of the Volcano Highway
from Keaau to Glenwood, with a side line providing service to Paradise Drive. Until
Olaa well C was completed, water from Olaa wells A and B was pumped through a
series of booster pumps and storage tanks to the uppermost service area in Glenwood.
DWS continues to have the capability of pumping water up gradient from Olaa wells
A and B, but seeks to minimize this in order to reduce system pumping costs.
Since the Olaa well C is up gradient of wells A and B, it is the primary source of
water for the DWS service area. The most current data submitted to the State
Commission on Water Resource Management, for the month of December 1997,
indicates that DWS Olaa wells A and B pumped a combined total of 2.5 million
gallons per month. Olaa C well pumped 26.4 million gallons in the same month.
d. Water Quality
As noted previously, the HELLO and DWS wells at the Puna Generating Station have
never displayed salinity of more than 10 parts per million. (Source: Unpublished report
tilted "Puna Water Resources Investigations and Permitting..." Mink and Yuen, Inc.,
September 1996.) This is attributable to the estimated boundary between basal and
parabasal ground water being about 1.3 miles east of the Puna Generating Plant.
Parabasal groundwater is hydraulically connected to the basal lens but rests on a low
permeability stratum rather than seawater. Consequently, the infiltration of seawater is
minimal.
As discussed in a subsequent section concerning wastewater disposal, HECO
environmental department personnel support HELLO in matters related to federal and
state regulation related to wastewater disposal. HECO indicates that the HELLO
Generating Station is in compliance with al] applicable federal and state regulations
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related to wastewater disposal. Information provided by HECO also indicates that
wastewater disposal associated with the Puna Generating Station has no adverse affect or
impact on the underlying aquifer.
Historic Resources:
19. Existing Archaeological, Cultural or Historic Sites on the National Hawaii Register
The HELCO Puna Generating Station site has no archaeological, cultural or historic sites
_ or structures of historical significance. This is confirmed by correspondence from the
state agency responsible for archaeological, cultural or historic sites and structures.
A letter dated September 21, 1988, signed by William W. Paty, Chairperson, Board of
Land and Natural Resources, commenting on Special Permit Application 88-22 states, in
part:
"Our Department's Historic Sites Section indicates that since this application only
requests continued use of the existing plant facilities, there will be "no effect" on
significant historic sites."
In March 1997, CH2M HILL requested a written determination from the Historic
Preservation Division of the Department of Land and Natural Resources that the State
Land Use amendment and County rezoning change will have no effect on any significant
sites on HELCO's property. A letter dated April 14, 1997, signed by Don Hibbazd,
Administrator, State Historic Preservation Division, states, in part:
"Because the area has been so extensively disturbed we believe that there are no
significant historic sites remaining on the subject property. We thus believe that the
proposed rezoning and boundary designation changes will have "no effect" on historic
sites"
Through the eazly-1980s for an unknown period of time, sugar was extensively cultivated
in the azea surrounding the HELCO Generating Station site and the subject site was used
for sugar milling. Prior to, during the establishment of the aforementioned uses and since
the establishment of HELCO's generating and related uses in 1988, there are no known
traditional gathering activities and/or cultural practices as identified by Article XII,
Section 7 of the Hawaii State Constitution affecting the subject property.
Natural Resources:
20. Existing Flora/Faunal Resources (any native or exotic plants, any listed or candidate
endangered species)
a. Flora
The Puna Generating Station site has been used for sugar milling for almost 100 years,
and for power generation for a decade, and has been extensively disturbed. The site does
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not have any native, listed or candidate endangered flora. Within the fenced portion of
the Puna Generating Station, vegetation is composed of planted landscaping. A mixed
grass fringe is found on the west, north, and east sides of the site. The mixed grasses are
all introduced such as California, molasses, and elephant grasses; a mix of weedy species;
and some gazden escapees such as avocado.
b. Fauna
CH2M HILL consulted with the United States Department of the Interior, Fish and
_ Wildlife Service (USFWS), Pacific Islands Ecoregion. An April 24, 1998 letter from a
representative of indicate that the Hawaiian hawk, `Io (Buteo solitarius), and the
Hawaiian hoary bat, Ope`ape'a (Lasiurus cinereus sematus), have been sighted in the
proximity of the Puna Generating Station. The letter goes on to state: "No significant
adverse impact to fish and wildlife resource are expected to result from the proposed
zoning change."
Based on on-site observations, the only known rare or endangered native avian resource
that has been identified is native migratory specie, the Hawaiian Stilts (Himantopus
mexicanus knudsem), observed on the edge of a small puddle adjacent to the main paved
driveway into the generating station. The puddle is not a habitat area for the Hawaiian
Stilts. This species is listed as endangered by the USFWS and by the State of Hawaii
Division of Forestry and Wildlife.
Based on on-site observations, the only known rare or endangered native mammalian
resource that has been identified at the generating site is the Hawaiian hoary bat,
Ope'ape'a (Lasiurus cinereus semotus). This species is listed as endangered by USFWS
and by the State of Hawaii, DLNR Division of Forestry and Wildlife. At night, the bats
feed on flying insects attracted by night lighting. The generating station site and
structures aze not a habitat azea for the bat.
21. Scenic or Coastal Resources
There are no scenic or coastal resources affected by the HELCO site. The Natural Beauty
element of the County's General Plan identifies sites or areas that are considered to be a
scenic resource. The HELCO site and immediately surrounding area are not listed as a
scenic site. The site is over three (3) miles from the nearest coastline, and does not affect
coastal resources.
Social-Economic Characteristics:
22. Social Settlement Pattern for the Area
Keaau is located at the junction of two major highways in Puna, and is thus centrally
located. A central commercial area with surrounding "pockets" containing concentrations
of people characterizes Keaau's settlement pattern. The area immediately surrounding the
HELCO site has a mix of urban types of land uses in the vicinity of the site. The HELCO
(2~)
site and surrounding area's settlement pattern is historically and functionally an extension
of the Keaau Town center's urban area.
The state has approved urban land use reclassifications in the immediate vicinity of
Keaau. Approximately 660 acres of land were included in a 1994-land use boundary
amendment. With subsequent county rezoning, the amendment will lead to an expansion
of Keaau village over time, as infrastructure is developed and as the market demand for
urban uses materializes. The expansion includes a parcel north of Keaau is on the
western side of the Mamalahoa Highway, on the opposite side of the highway from the
_ HELCO site. (The reclassification of the 600 acres of land involves land owned by W. H.
Shipman, Limited. The 600 acres is a portion of approximately 2,000 acres in and azound
Keaau, which Shipman has planned as part of the "Conceptual Keaau Development
Plan." Shipman proposes to develop the 2,000 acres over-a period of 20 or more years.)
As discussed in section 25, "Land Use," several urban uses have been established in the
immediate vicinity of the Puna Generating Station. The County Planning Commission has
approved Special Permits for several parcels in the vicinity of the HELCO site. The
Special Permits allow urban type uses that include a flower packing facility, a papaya
packing facility, and a church school. Sites with urban uses in some proximity to the
HELCO also include astate-assisted housing project, permitted under statutory pre-
exemptions of land use requirements, and a former sugar plantation housing subdivision.
Section 25 also discusses TMK 1:6:03:5, a pazcel immediately adjacent to the Puna
Generating Station. In 1997, the County approved redesignation of a 14.3 acre portion of
TMK 1:6:03:5 to the Urban District and concurrently rezoned the aforementioned area to
alight industrial (ML) zoning district designation. Subsequent to the 1997 rezoning
approval, the property owner submitted a second rezoning application, now pending final
County Council action. The pending rezoning seeks to change the ML zoning district
designation to the "Industrial-Commercial Mixed" (MCX) district designation. The
MCX zoning district was created in late-1996 and would allow a mix of commercial and
light industrial uses.
Urbanization of the HELCO Puna Generating station will not contribute to scattered spot
urban development, as it is in the midst of areas with urban type uses, and is proximal to
existing urban faciliti:.s.
23. Economic Resources of the Area
Historically, the Puna District has had agricultural activities as the primary economic
activity. Through the 1980s, sugar provided significant employment in the district. With
the termination of sugar cultivation, diversified agriculture has been the principal primary
economic activity located in the district.
Industrial activities in the Puna District aze limited, and include processing of agricultural
products, electric power production, and activities located at the Shipman Industrial Park.
(28)
Tourism in the Puna District is limited, with the principal tourist destination being the
Volcanoes National Pazk.
The employed residents of the towns and subdivisions in the Puna District generally work
in Hilo. The lazgest of these towns is Keaau, followed by Pahoa. Both of these towns
serve as commercial and service centers for residents of the Puna District.
24. Land Values
_ The Puna District's residential lands offer some of the lowest cost house lots in the state.
The low cost of residential lots is attributable to the supply of unimproved residential lots
in the Puna District exceeding the demand for undeveloped lots. The excess of supply
relative to demand keeps the price of unimproved lots depressed.
Commercial and industrial land values are typically lower in the Puna District than in
Hilo. This is attributable to Hilo having a larger population base and being closer to
transportation facilities, such as the Hilo airport and hazbor.
Since the Puna Generating Station is apre-existing facility, any impact that the generating
station would have on sunrounding land values would have already occurred and be
reflected in current property values.
HELLO does not contemplate selling the Puna Generating site at any time in the
foreseeable future.
Surrounding lands:
25. Land Use
Keaau is located at the junction of two major highways in Puna, and is thus centrally
located. A central commercial area with surrounding "pockets" containing concentrations
of people chazacterizes Keaau's settlement pattern.
The area immediately surrounding the HELLO site has a mix of urban types of land uses
in the vicinity of the site. The HELLO site and surrounding area's settlement pattern is
historically and functionally an extension of the Keaau Town center's urban area.
A property immediately adjacent to the HELLO site, identified by TMK 1:6:03:5, was
subject of County land use approvals in 1997. A County land use boundary amendment,
approved in 1997, reclassified a 14.3 acre portion of TMK 1:6:03:5 to the state Urban
District boundary, with the rest of the parcel remaining in the state Agricultural District.
TMK 1:6:03:5 was concurrently rezoned in 1997 to a three-acre minimum lot size
agricultural zoning designation, with the Urban portion of the property rezoned to a three-
acre minimum lot size limited industrial district zoning designation. Subsequent to the
1997 rezoning approval, the property owner submitted a second rezoning application to
reclassify the property to two new zoning district designation that were created pursuant
to County's revised zoning ordinance enacted December 7, 1996. The second rezoning
(29)
request, currently pending County Council action, seeks to reclassify the portion of the
TMK 1:6:03:5 in the state's Agricultural District to the County's "Family Agricultural"
(FA) zoning district, with a minimum lot size of three acres. The 1998 rezoning requests
that the remaining 14.3 acres in the state's Urban District be reclassified to the County's
"Industrial-Commercial Mixed" (MCX) district designation, with a minimum lot size of
20,000 square feet. The FA zoning district is an agricultural zoning district designation,
and the MCX zoning district allows a mix of commercial and light industrial uses.
The County Planning Commission has also approved Special Permits for several other
_ parcels in the vicinity of the HELCO site. The Special Permits allow urban type uses that
include a flower packing facility, a papaya packing facility, and a church school.
Sites in some proximity to the HELCO with urban uses also include astate-assisted
housing project, permitted under statutory pre-exemptions of land use requirements, and a
former sugaz plantation housing subdivision.
26. Zoning
The site HELCO is currently designated in the County's agricultural zoning district. The
site is currently zoned A-20.
HELCO is seeking to rezone the site to the County's general industrial district (MG), with
a minimum lot size of 10 acres (MG-l0a). HELCO wants to rezone the site from an
agricultural zoning designation to the County's general industrial designation, as the
current use of the site is consistent with the uses permitted under the general industrial
zoning district designation.
HELCO plans to continue using the site to generate electricity and for related ancillary
improvements. (These are currently the use permitted by Special Permit No. 686
approved by the Hawaii County Planning Commission on November 15, 1988.)
D. PUBLIC FACILITIES AND SERVICES
27. Description of Access
The primary access to the Puna Generating Station site is from Mamalahoa Highway via
Keaau Road. Mamalahoa Highway (State Route 11, elsewhere referred to as Route 19
and 190 and also known as Hawaii Belt Road) is a major arterial serving most of the
Island of Hawaii. Within the vicinity of the HELCO site, Mamalahoa Highway is afour-
lane highway that runs generally in the north-south direction. Keaau Road is a private
mad providing access from Old Volcano Road to the existing HELCO Generating
Station. The two-lane Old Volcano Road runs parallel and east of Mamalahoa Highway.
Keaau Road crosses Old Volcano Road.
(30)
28. Availability of Water
Water is available at the HELLO Puna Generating Station site. Both HELLO and the
Hawaii County Department of Water Supply (DWS) have separate groundwater wells on
the site. Section 18-c, concerning "groundwater," contains an extensive discussion on the
topic.
29. Wastewater Disposal
_ HECO environmental department personnel also support HELLO in matters related to
federal and state regulation related to wastewater disposal. HECO indicates that the
HELLO Generating Station is in compliance with all applicable federal and state
regulations related to wastewater disposal. Information provided by HECO also indicates
that wastewater disposal associated with the Puna Generating Station has no adverse
affect or impact on the underlying aquifer.
Information provided by HECO indicates that the Puna Generating Station has four
existing wastewater flows, described below.
• Non-contact condenser cooling water, discharged from the condenser comprises
approximately 467,000 gallons per hour (gph). This water is discharged into a re-
injection well located off-site, and is permitted by underground injection control
(UIC) permit No. UH 1438.
• Auxiliary cooling water discharge comprises approximately 9,300 gallons per
hour (gph). Currently, this water is disposed into aditch/culvert and discharged
off-site. HELLO indicates it is considering a plan to isolate and recycle (i.e., re-
circulate) all flows out of the existing auxiliary cooling water pumps through a
service water cooler.
• Currently, sanitary wastewater cesspool discharge comprises approximately 30
gph.
• Industrial wastewater discharge varies. Industrial wastewater receives primary
treatment at the Puna Generating Station, and is thin trucked to the Hill
Generating Station in Hilo. It is further treated at the Hill Station and discharged
to the Hill facility's injection wells, pursuant to existing UIC permits UH 1241
and LJH 1242.
30. Solid and Hazardous Wastes
The County does not provide solid waste pickup service. The County of Hawaii has a
transfer station in the vicinity of Keaau. The Hilo LandFill will be replaced by the West
Hawaii landfill at Puu Anahulu. Solid waste generated by HELLO at the Puna
Generating station is recycled to the extent practicable, with the remainder being disposed
of at the County landfill. HELLO Generating Station is in compliance with all applicable
federal and state regulations related to the disposal of solid waste.
(31)
Waste identified as hazazdous is disposed of in accordance with federal and state regulatory
requirements. Currently, hazardous waste from the Island of Hawaii is shipped to the U.S.
mainland for disposal.
31. Police and Fire Protection
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for police and fire protection. Stations
located in both Keaau and Hilo provide county police and fire protection services.
HELCO personnel are also trained for emergency situations including fires and first aid.
_ As noted elsewhere, a chain link fence surrounds the HELCO site.
32. Schools
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for schools. The State Department of
Education is currently constructing sepazate elementazy and high schools in the
immediate vicinity of Keaau.
33. Pazks
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for park space. The County's Shipman
Pazk currently serves the area. Either the development of sepazate park sites or expansion
of the existing Shipman Pazk will accompany expansion of Keaau.
34. Other Utilities and Services (telephone/electricity)
The Puna Generating Station is an essential element of HELCO's electrical power
generation capacity for Hawaii Island customers. HELCO provides electrical service to
[he Puna Generating Station site.
The HELCO site does not impact the demand for telephone service. GTE Hawaiian
Telephone serves the HELCO site and surrounding area from its Keaau station.
E. ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND ANALYSIS
35. Relationship Between Local Short Term Uses of Environment and Maintenance and
Enhancement of Long Term Productivity
Short-term uses of the biophysical components of the environment include direct
construction-related disturbances and direct impacts associated with an increase in
activity that occurs in less than 5 years. Long-term uses of the environment include those
impacts occurring over a period of more than 5 years, including permanent resource loss.
No short-term changes are anticipated at the HELCO Puna Generating Station that will
impact components of the environment.
Through the year 2017, no long-term changes are anticipated at the HELCO Puna
Generating Station that will impact components of the environment.
(32)
Beyond the yeaz 2017, and under unforeseen circumstances prior to the yeaz 2017, the
Puna Generating Station's generating capacity may be expanded. One impact associated
with possible future expansion of the generating capacity is the change in the visual
environment. A second impacts associated with any future expansion are related to air
emissions produced by the facility decreasing the criteria pollutant increments available
for future new sources under the Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD)
regulations.
Electrical energy is a resource that has become an indispensable part of life. Electric
_ utility companies have the responsibility of providing reliable electric service at a
reasonable cost to the consumer. Every effort should be made to conserve electricity, and
new sources of energy production also need to be developed. As it becomes older,
equipment runs less efficiently, uses more natural resources, and results in higher costs to
the user. On the Island of Hawaii, population increases and the planned retirement of
older equipment are creating the need for additional electrical generating capacity.
The population of the Island of Hawaii has grown dramatically over the last two decades.
Overall population and economic growth on the Island of Hawaii is expected to continue
in the foreseeable future.
36. Mitigate Measures Proposed to Avoid, Minimize, Rectify or Reduce Impact
No development is currently planned or proposed in conjunction with the requested
changes in the state and County land use designations. Since no development is currently
planned or proposed, there are no impacts to reduce, minimize and rectify. Therefore, no
mitigation measures are proposed.
37. Alternatives to the Proposed Development
No development is can-ently planned or proposed in conjunction with the requested
changes in the state and County land use designations. Since no development is currently
planned or proposed, alternatives are not relevant.
38. Irreversible and Irretrievable Commitments of Natural Resources Involved if Proposed
Action Implemented
Irreversible and irretrievable resource commitments are related to the use of
nonrenewable resources and the effects that use of these resources will have on future
generations. Irreversible effects primarily result from use or destruction of a specific
resource (for example, energy and minerals) that cannot be replaced within a reasonable
time frame. Irretrievable resource commitments involve the loss in value of an affected
resource that cannot be restored as a result of the action (for example, extinction of a
threatened or endangered species).
The Puna Generating Station is an existing use on a site that has been actively used for
power production over the past decade, and for sugar milling prior to that. No new
development is currently planned or proposed in conjunction with the requested changes
(33)
in the state and County land use designations. Since the HELLO Puna Generating Station
is an existing use and development, and no new use or development is currently planned
or proposed, there will not be any additional irreversible and irretrievable commitment of
natural and fiscal resources.
HELCO's decision to continue the use of diesel fuel, rather than other fuel sources, is
based on the economics of providing the electricity. HELLO is committed to the
development of feasible, cost-effective alternative fuels and power sources and increased
conservation measures to lessen dependency on imported fossil fuels.
F. AGENCIES COMMENTS
39. Agency Comments
Agency comments pertaining to the proposed State Land Use Boundary amendment and
rezoning are attached as Appendix D. The following identifies the agencies that provided
comments.
a. United States Department of the Interior, by letter dated April 24, 1998.
b. State Department of Agriculture, by facsimile transmittal dated June 4, 1998.
c. State Department of Budget and Finance, Hosing Finance and Development
Corporation, by letter dated April 1, 1998.
d. State Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism, by letter dated
Apri127, 1998.
e. State Department of Land and Natural Resources, Division of Land Management, by
letter dated Apri120, 1998.
f. State Department of Land and Natural Resources, State Historic Preservation
Division, by letter dated April 14, 1997, and by a prior letter dated September 21,
1988.
g. State Department of Health, Clean Air Branch, by letter dated Apri13, 1998.
h. State Department of Transportation by letter dated Apri16, 1998.
i. County of Hawaii, Department of Public Works, by letter dated April 16, 1998.
j. County of Hawaii, Planning Department, by letter dated February 3, 1997.
k. County of Hawaii, Department of Research and Development, letter dated Apri17,
1998.
1. County of Hawaii, Department of Water Supply, letter dated May 26, 1998.
(34)
Appendix A
Metes and Bounds Description of Subject Property
Prepared by Island Survey, Inc. May 15, 1988
DESCRIPTION
LOT 1
Being a Consolidation of Exception 7-B, Exception 7-A-2-A,
Lot 3-C, Ld. Ct. App. 1689 and Lot 34-C, Ld. Ct. Appl 1053 and
LOT2
Being a Consolidation of Exception 7-A-1,
Being a Portion of R.P. 7223, L.C. Aw. 8559-B:16 to Wm. C. Lunalilo
with Lot 3-D, Ld. Ct. App. 1689 and Lot 34-B, Lot 34-C, Ld. Ct. App. 1053 .
Situated at Keaau, Puna, Island of Hawaii, Hawaii
Beginning at the southwest comer of this parcel of land, the northwest corner of
Exception 7-A-Z and on the east side of Lot 27, Land Court Application 1053, the
coordinates of said point of beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation
Station "OLAA" being 11,305.27 feet North and 8,061.53 feet East and running by
azimuths measured clockwise from True South:
I. 167° 44' 958.97 feet along Lot 27, Land Court Application 1053;
2. 297° 50' 380.80 feet along Lot 3-E, Land Court Application 1689;
3. Thence along Lots 3-E and 3-D, Land Court Application 1689, along a curve to the
left having a radius of 1167.65 feet, the chord azimuth and
distance being:
294° 0T 156.57 feet;
4. 290° 24' 160.33 feet along Lots 3-E and 3-D, Land Court Application1689
and Lots 34-A and 34-B, Land Court Application 1053;
5. Thence along Lots 34-A and 34-B, Land Court Application 1053, along a curve to
the right having a radius of 430.00 feet, the chord azimuth
and distance being:
304° 07' 55.6" 204.15 feet;
6. Thence along Lots 34-E and 34-C, Land Court Application 1053, along a curve to
the right having a radius of 430.00 feet, the chord azimuth
and distance being:
330° 33' 45.6" 189.05 feet;
7. 343° 15' 40" 1.68 feet Lots 34-E and 34-C, Land Court Application 1053;
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. ro. eoxazis
SURVEYORS MILD MAW111 °F]°fl
Lots 1 and 2
8. 82° 3 ]49.55 feet along Lots 34-B & 34-D, Land Court Application
1053, Lots 3-C & 3-B, Land Court Application 1689 and
Lot 3;
9. 352° 40' 145.13 feet along Lot 3;
10. 47° 58' 140.26 feet along Lot 3;
Thence along Pump Site for the next eight (8) courses, the
azimuths and distances between points being:
11. 82° 22' 18.00 feet;
12. 352° 22' 10.00 feet;
13. 82° 22' 48.00 feet;
14. 352° 22' 24.00 feet;
I5. 262° 22' 16.00 feet;
16. 201° 00' 4.56 feet;
17. 262° 22' 4.82 feet;
18. 352° 22' 10.00 feet;
19. 82° 22' 421.04 feet along Lot 3 to the point of beginning and
containing a Gross Area of 10.533 acres and a Net Area of
10.501 acres after deducting and excluding 0.032 acre of
Exclusion 1 described as follows:.
EXCLUSION 1 (Chlorinator Site)
Beginning at the southeast comer of this parcel of land, the coordinates of said point of
beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 11,387.20
feet North and 8,143.98 feet East and running by azimuths measured clockwise from True
South:
-2-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. ro.aoxazis
SURVEYORS HILO, HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
1. 80° 49' 40.00 feet;
2. 170° 49' 35.00 feet along Easement A-l;
3. 260° 49' 40.00 feet along Easement A-1;
4. 350° 49' 35.00 feet along Easement A-1 to the point of beginning and
containing an area of 0.032 acre.
EXCEPTING AND Reserving, However the following Easements:
EASEMENT A-1 for waterline purposes in favor of the Department of Water Supply,
County of Hawaii and is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the northwest corner of this parcel of land, on the southwest side of Lot 3,
Land Court Application 1689, the coordinates of said point of beginning referred to
Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 12,242.35 feet North and
7,857.79 feet East and running by azimuths measured clockwise from True South:
1. 297° 50' 19.61 feet;
2. 347° 44' 807,48 feet;
3. 278° 00' 133.58 feet;
4. 261° 35' 271.72 feet;
5. 310° 00' 62.12 feet;
6. 352° 22' 31.47 feet partly along Exclusion 2;
7. 82° 22' 65.00 feet partly along Exclusion 2;
8. 167° 00' 57.03 feet;
9. 81° 35' 283.37 feet;
10. 170° 49' 22.37 feet along Exclusion 1;
-3-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC, ro.eoxazrs
SURVEYORS HILA. HAWAtI %720
Lots 1 & 2
1 1. 80° 49' 40.00 feet along Exclusion 1;
12. 350° 49' 21.84 feet along Exclusion 1;.
13. 81° 35' 43.83 feet;
14. 347° 44' 81.99 feet;
15. 92° 22' 15.05 feet;
16. 167° 44' 958.97 feet along Lot 27 of Land Court Application 1053 to the
point of beginning and containing an area of 27,543 square
feet or. 0.632 acre.
EASEMENT D for Cold Waterline Purposes in favor of Puna Sugar Company, Limited
and is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the southerly comer of this parcel of.land, on the northerly side of Exclusion
2 (Pump Site), the coordinates of said point of beginning referred to Government Survey
Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 11,406.56 feet North and 8,516.15 feet East and
running by azimuths measured clockwise from True South:
1. 82° 22' 18.00 feet along Exclusion 2;
2. 352° 22' 10.00 feet along Exclusion 2;
3. 82° 22' 27.00 feet along Exclusion 2;
4. 171° 31' 31.03 feet;
5. 260° 54' 30" 68.58 feet;
6. l 71 ° 43' 106.59 feet;
7. 81° 43' 6.21 feet;
8. 171 ° 43' 14.28 feet;
-4-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. p.0.801(6215
SURVEYORS HIl0, HAWAII 9672D
Lots 1 & 2
9. 81° 43' 10.01 feet;
10. 172° 23' 30" 306.76 feet;
11. 101° 07' 90.53 feet to the northeast corner of Easement E;
12. 172° 37' 10.55 feet along the east side of Easement F;
13. 281° 07' 99.50 feet;
14. 352° 31' 304.33 feet;
I5. 261° 43' 18.22 feet;
16.351° 43' 131.10 feet;
17. 47° 58' 40.11 feet to the point of beginning and containing an area 6,595
square feet or 0.151. acre.
EASEMENT E for Hot Waterline Purposes in favor of Puna Sugar Company, Limited and
is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the southeast comer of this parcel of land, the coordinates of said point of
beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA" being 11,476.65
feet North and 8,518.62 feet East and running by azimuths measured clockwise from True
South:
1. 82° 24' 31.95 feet;
2. 16y' 12' 4.08 feet;
3. 81° 41' 45.43 feet;
4. 172° 28' 21.00 feet;
5. 81° 54' 12.53 feet;
6. 171° 41' 51.68 feet;
-5-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. r.o.soxazis
SURVEYORS KILO, HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
7. 261 ° 40' 4.70 feet;
8. 171° 40' 30.89 feet;
9. 237° 24' 5.64 feet;
10. 171° 36' 30" 125.89 feet;
11.259° 20' 7.50 feet;
12. 171° 52' 37.43 feet;
13. 81° 06' 26.68 feet;
14. 172° 37' 140.99 feet to the south side of Easement F;
15. 281° 07' 10.55 feet along the south side of Easement F;
16. 352° 37' 127.37 feet;
17. 261° 06' 26.54 feet;
18. 351° 52' 57.13 feet;
19. 79° 20' 7.46 feet;
20.351° 36' 30" 122.75 feet;
21. 57° 54' 5.64 feet;
22.351° 40' 34.43 feet;
23. 81° 40' 4.70 feet;
24.351° 41' 31.72 feet;
25. 261° 54' 12.67 feet;
-6-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. ro. aox azis
SURVEYORS HILO, HAWAII 96720
Lots ] & 2
26.352° 28' 20.96 feet;
27. 261° 41' 44.87 feet;
28. 171° 41' 5.72 feet;
29. 261° 45' 22.56 feet;
30. 351° 45' 20.18 feet to the point of beginning and containing an area of
5,574 square feet or 0.138 acre.
EASEMENT F for Cold & Hot Waterline Purposes in favor of Puna Sugar Company,
Limited and is more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the southeast comer of this parcel of land, the southwest corner of Easement
D (Cold Waterline), the northeast corner ofEasement E (Hot Waterline), the coordinates
of said point of beginning referred to Government Survey Triangulation Station "OLAA"
being 11,870.95 feet North and 8,373.11 feet East and running by azimuths measured
clockwise from True South:
I . 101° 07' 65.64 feet partly along Easement E;
2. 128° 53' 423.32 feet;
3. 128° 11' 106.57 feet;
4. 115° 02' 38.98 feet;
5. 167° 44' 10.85 feet;
6. 297° 50' 66.59 feet;
7. 308° 11' 87.46 feet;
8. 308° 53' 420.90 feet;
-7-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. P.o.aoxazis
SURVEYORS F11L0. HAWAII 96720
Lots 1 & 2
9. 281° 07' 59.82 feet;
10. 352° 37' 10.55 feet along the west side of Easement D (Cold Waterline)
to the point of beginning and containing an area of
6,202 square feet or 0.142 acre.
The description for Lots 1 & 2 does not constitute a consolidated lot. Easements A-1, D,
E and F have been compiled from description prepared by Nobuchika Santo dated
May 15, 1988.
July 27, 1998 ~aT r, sy ISLAND SURVEY, INC.
Hilo, Hawaii Q~~ ~
L!CfiNSED
PRG~C:SSICNAL
7t IANu F-U~IIEYOR it
TMK:1-6-003:093 y ROBERT T. SHIRAI
~1'1'All U•`'' Licensed Professional
- Land Surveyor 5985
-8-
® ISLAND SURVEY, INC. ro.6oxazis
SURVEYORS HILO. HAWAII 96720
Appendix B
"HELCO's Puna Generation Facility Traffic Assessment."
Prepared by Austin, Tsutsumi & Associates, Inc., Mazch 1997
AUSTIN, TSUTSUMI 6. ASSOCIATES, INC. clvu. a.IGwEERS • 6URVEYDRS
CONTINUING THE ENGINEERING PRACTICE FOUNDED BY H. A. R. AUSTIN IN ~ 834
TED 5. KAWAwC1tiSw, P.E.
KENNEIM K. KUROIUW/~ P.E. #0-97-018
May 11, 1998
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M HIII
1585 ICapiolanl Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814.4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
Subject: HELCO's Puna Generation Facility
Traffic Assessment
This letter report documents the findings of the traffic study conducted by Austin, Tsutsumi &
Associates, Inc. (ATA) to Identity the traffic impad of the existing Hawaii Electric tight Company's
(HELLO) Puna generation facility, identified as (fMIQ: 1-6-03:93.
HELLO is presently requesting to rezone the site of the Puna generation facility at the County
level from agricultural use to Industrial use and at the State level ftom agricultural use to urban
use. Inftially, the Puna Generating Station was developed as an andllary use with the operation
of the former Puna Sugar Mili; this activity was previously permitted as agricultural activity. The
generated electricity was utilized by sugar operations and employee-residents. With the
cessation of sugar operations, HELLO acquired suffident right-of-way and was granted a Spedal
Pennft by the County of Hawaii to continue the generation of power. The Spedal Permft was
required since the power generation became the primary use for the sfte as it was no longer
assodated with agriculttnal activity. The requested State and Courrty rezonings would better
reflect the actual use of the Puna generation fadlity site.
The site of the existing fadlity is located at the former Puna Sugar Mta. Primary access to the
site is from Mamalahoa Highway via Keaau Road. Flgure 1 shows the general roadway system
In the vidnity of the proposed expansion site. The existing faditty has 37 MW of generating
capadty. The staffing of the fadlity consists of 3 shifts with 2 employees per shift. The delivery
of diesel fuel Is currently 21-49 trips per week. HEl CO currently has no expansion plans for the
fadlities located at the Puna generating facliriy.
REPIV TO- OFFICES IN
301 BLMMVER STREET. B1.11TE BQ1 •,-,ONOLULU. I'I>WYII 9BB.~1~3D3. I HGJGLULU. MAWGiI
F.gP,E IBOBI 33336<B FnX IBOBI 6Q6~1Q69 WAILUKU. M4UI. ,-,nWpli
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. ~w.~`:.
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M H11I May 11, 1998
Purpose and Scope
The purpose of the study is to analyze the traffic impacts of the existing HELLO facility on
the local roadway system. The foilovring are traffic scenarios which are analyzed in this
study:
• Existing Year 1997 Conditions
• Year 2001 Base Conditions
This study analyzes the two intersections of Mamalahoa Highway at Keaau Road and Old
Volcano Road at Keaau Road, which are directly affected by the HELLO facility traffic.
IXISTING CONDITIONS
The following is a brief discussion of the existing major roadways in the immediate vicinity
of the expansion site, and the current traffic operating conditions at the two key
intersections.
Mamalahoa Highway -Mamalahoa Highway (State Routes 11, 19 and 190), also known
as Hawaii Belt Road, is a major arterial serving most of the island of Hawaii. Within the
vicinity of the HELLO expansion site, Mamalahoa Highway is a four-lane highway which
runs generally in the north-south direction. North of Keaau Town, Mamalahoa Highway
Is a divided highway with a posted speed limft of 55 miles per hour (mph). Within Keaau
Town, Mamalahoa Highway is an undivided, tour-lane highway with a reduced speed limit
of 35-mph.
Keaau Road -Keaau Road is a private road providing axess from Old Volcano Road to
the existing HELLO generation tadlity. Between Mamalahoa Highway and OId Volcano
Road (approximately 50 teen, Keaau Roadie maintained by the Co!:nty:of Hawaii. The
two-lane gravel road also serves a QgM Industrial complex located Just north of the HELLO
tadlity. Keaau Road Is controlled by stop signs at the Intersections at Old Volcano Road
and Mamalahoa Highway.
Old Volcano Road - Within the general vidnity of the. study area, the two-lane Old Volcano
Road runs parallel and east of Mamalahoa Highway. North of Keaau Road, the Old
Volcano Road serves a light industrial complex and private properties. South of Keaau
Road, the Old Volcano Road provides axess to the residential areas of Keaau Town.
Figure 2 shows the existing geometrics at two analyzed intersections.
Weekday AM and PM peak period traffic counts were conducted by ATA at the two
existing analyzed Intersections. Figure 3 shows the existing traffic volumes at the two
-2-
Mr. AI L.ono Lyman
CH2M Hill May 11, 1998
intersections. Manual turning movement counts were conducted during the morning and
evening peak periods on March 19 and 20, 1997.
During the morning AM peak period, the peak direction of traffic flow on Mamaiahoa
Highway is in the northbound direction with approximately 2,640 vehicies during the peak
hour and approximately 640 peak hour vehicles in the southbound direction. During the
afternoon PM peak period, the peak direction of flow Is in the opposite direction with
approximately 1,800 peak hour vehicles in the southbound direction and approximately
770 peak hour vehicles in the northbound direction.
It was observed that, during the PM peak period, a relatively high number of southbound
vehicles (267 vph) on Mamaiahoa Highway turn left onto Keaau Road and then turn right
onto the Old Volcano Road. If is assumed that most of these motorists are bound for the
residential areas of Keaau Town.
Based on the existing traffic count data, the number of vehicles that utilize Keaau Road
serving the HELCO facility area is relatively low. During the AM peak hour, only 46
vehicles per hour (vph) were observed, with 12 vph in the westbound direction and 34 vph
in the eastbound diredion. During the PM peak hour, only 33 vph utilize Keaau Road with
27 vph in the westbound direction and 6 vph in the eastbound diredion.
Level of service (LOS) is a qualitative measure used to describe the conditions of traffic
tlow, ranging from free-flow conditions at LOS A to congested conditions at LOS F. The
1894 biotn ^•v Gacadty h"anual - Soedai Report 209 method for calculating delays and
corresponding levels of seMce at stop•controlled Irttersedlons was utilized in this study.
Level of service definitions tor~slgnatized and stop-controlled intersedions are provided in
Table 1. Flgure 3 also shows the levels of service at the two existing IMersedions.
Results also show that, during the AM peak hour, the southbound left tum movement trom
Mamaiahoa Highway to Keaau Road Is operating at lAS F. Long detays to this partlculai
movement are mainly due to the high amount of northbound opposing vehides on
Mamaiahoa Highway. The westbound left-tum movement from Keaau Road to
Mamaiahoa Highway is also operating at LAS F during the AM peak hour, but this only
affeds a small number of vehides (only one vehide during the peak hour was observed).
The remaining movements at both intersections are all operating at acceptable levels of
service (LOS A, B, C or D).
-3-
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Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill May 11, 1998
Results also show that during the PM peak hour, only the westbound left-turn from Keaau
Road to Mamalahoa Highway is operating at an undesirable level of service (LOS F).
However, similar to the AM peak hour, only one vehicle during the PM peak hour was
observed affected. Although the number of PM peak hour southbound left-turn vehicles
(267 vph) from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road is much higher than the AM peak
hour (122 vph), this movement is operating at an acceptable level of service (LOS B) due
to the much lower number of northbound opposing vehicles.
The intersection of Old Volcano Road and Keaau Road is operating at LOS A and B during
the AM and PM peak hours, respectively.
YEAR 2001 BASE CONDITIONS
The Year 2001 Base forecast of traffic conditions is based on existing traffic volumes plus
expected ambient growth in traffic caused by regional growth throughout the entire island
of Hawaii. The ambient traffic growth rate, which was applied to existing traffic volumes
to estimate Year 2001 traffic volumes, is based on historical traffic counts conducted by
the State of Hawaii, Department of Transportation (HDOT). Based on historical HDOT
traffic counts in the vicinity of the proposed expansion, an approximate 1% per year traffic
growth rate is applied. The resulting Year 2001 Base Vaffic volumes and level of service
results are shown on Figure 4. Since Year 2001 operations at the Puna generation facility
are not expected to change, the future traffic generation of the HELCO facility would
remain the same as the existing trip generation as given In Table 2..
With the expected overall traffic growth in the area, the level of service results are similar
to the existing 1997 operating conditions. The westbound Jett-tum from Keaau Road to
Mamalahoa Highway will continue to operate at LOS F during both.the AM and PM peak
hours, and again, only a'small number of veh(des will be atfeoted. The southbound left-.
tum from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road will continue to operate at LOS' F during
the AM peak hour while the PM peak hour level of seMce will deteriorate from LpSB to
LOS C, which is still within the acceptable range. Table 3 summarizes the level of service
results.
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
At the Intersection of Mamalahoa Highway and Keaau Road, the southbound left-turn
movement is currently operating at LOS F during the AM peak hour. This is due to the
fact that the opposing northbound traffic volume on Mamalahoa Highway (Hilo bound) is
very high during this Ume of day. Also, the westbound left-tum movement from Keaau
-4
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill May 11, 1998
Road to southbound Mamalahoa Highway is operating at LOS F during both the AM and
PM peak hours. However, it should be recognized that only a small number of vehicles
is being affected (only 1 vehicle was observed during both the AM and PM peak hours).
Based on historical growth trends in the area, traffic volumes are expected to increase by
approximately 1% per year. in the Year 2001 Base forecast, the peak hour operations at
both intersections are expected to be similar to existing Year 1997 operating conditions.
It is recommended that no improvements are necessary at the intersection of Mamalahoa
Highway and Keaau Road. Although the westbound left-tum is currently operating at an
undesirable level of service, only a very small number of vehicles are affected. And,
although the southbound left-turns from Mamalahoa Highway to Keaau Road are operating
at an undesirable level of service, this only occurs during the morning peak period when
the opposing northbound approach is heavy. Based on the traffic counts conducted, most
of these vehicles are bound for Keaau Town which can also be accessed by Ahoa Street
and Kalapana Road further south.
Please call me should you require clarification or additional information.
Very truly yours,
AUSTIN, TSUTSUMI & ASSOCIATES, INC.
~ ~
sy
For TED S. KAWAHIGA HI, P.E
President
Attachmerrts:
Flgure 1 -Protect Area
Figure 2 -Existing Intersection Conflguretions
Flgure 3 -Existing Traffic Condtilons
Flgure 4 -Future Tratflo Conditions
Table 1 -Level of Service Deflntilons for Unslgnalized Intersection
Table 2 -Summary of Protect Trip Generation
Table 3 -Summary of Level of Service Results
-5-
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TABLE 1
LEVEL OF SERVICE DEFINITIONS FOR UNSIGNAUZED INTERSECTION
DELAY
LEVEL OF SERVICE (SECONDS/VEHICLE) DESCRIPTION
A 0.0 - 5.0 Little or no delay
- B 5.1 - 10.0 Short traffic delay
~ 10.1 - 20.0 Moderate traffic delay
D 20.1 - 30.0 Long traffic delay
E 30.1 - 45.0 Very long traffic delay
p > 45.0 Failure -extreme congestion
SOURCE: '~phway Capadty Manual', TrsncportaGon Pecearch Board, 1994.
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TABLE 2
SUMMARY OF PROJECT TRIP GENERATION
AM PEAK HOUR PM PEAK HOUR
DAILY IN OUT TOTAL IN OUT TOTAL
Existlna and Future
Trio Generation
Staff [aJ i6 3 3 6 3 3 6
Med. Sulfur Fuel Oil [b] 20 3 3 6 3 3 6
Diesel [b] 20 3 3 6 3 3 6
Total 56 9 9 18 9 9 18
otes•
[a] FxisOng Puna Power Plant slatting consists of 3 shins of 2 employees per shift plus CT3 staffing consisting of 2 Shifts with 1
employee per shift. Trip generation estimation assumes shpt change occurs during both the AM and PM peak hours.
[b] Trip generation based on 49 delivadec per week (woekdayc only), which avarnges to 10 loads per day. Assumes 30% of
deRverles occur during both the AM and PM peak hours.
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Appendix C
" Puna Generating Station, Air Quality Impacts"
Prepazed by Jim Clary and Associates, June, 1998
Puna Cenera~ting Sion
A?ir Quality Impacts
Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
Prepared by:
Jim Clary & Associates
June 1998
Table of Contents
1 ......................»..».......».»........................................»...»..............»...............................EXISTING CONDRIONS 1
1.1. TOppGRApHY ...........................................................................................................................................1
1.2. METEOao~oGV/CuMATe ..........................................................................................................................1
1.3. -EXISTING AIR QuALfTY ..............................................................................................................................1
2 APPLICABLE FEDERAL REGULATIONS ..................................................................................................2
2.1. NATIONAL AND SPATE AMBIENT AIR DUALITY STANDARDS .......................................................................2
22. NEw SouRCE REVIEyy .............................................................................................................................3
2.3. NEW SOURCE PERFORMANCE STANDARDS ..............................................................................................4
2.4. NATIONAL EMISSION STANDARDS FOR HAZARDOUS AIR POLLUTANTS ......................................................4
2.5. GOOD ENGINEERING PRACTICE STACK HEIGHT PROVISIONS ...................................................................4
3. APPLICABLE HAWAII REGULATIONS...........» .................»......................................................................4
4. PROJECT IMPACTS .....................................................................................................................................4
4.1. CONSTRUCTION AIR EMISSIONS ................................................................................................................5
4.2. OPERATIONAL AIR EMISSIONS ..................................................................................................................6
4.3. IMPACTS ON SOILS. VEGETATION. AND VISIBILITY .....................................................................................6
5. MITIGATION MEASURES ................._....................»...................................................................................6
6. REFERENCES...........» .....................»..............................................................»...........................................7
ust of Tables
TajLE1.3-1 EwsnNCaaRQUam .»»..»»»».»..»......»6
TABI.E21-1 SUAMAgRYOFSTATEOFHAwaIANDFEDERa.AMBIEPlrAIRQUamrSTa+wwos»»..»».».»»»....».»6
Ta3LE 22-1 SUMMaiY OF IMPAiCr LEVELB~ MONrt'ORING LEVEIS~ PSD INCREMINrs, AND STATE AND FEDERa.
STMIDAR~ FOR SaECTeD POLLUUNIS »9
TaaLE 42-1 PUNA EMISSIONS DATA USED IN EXISnNG A1R QUa.TIY MODELNG ANALYSIS »..»...»........»..».-»--»9
list of Figures
FIGURE 12-1 WINO ROSE ................._...............».................................................................................................10
1. Existing Conditions
1.7. Topography
The Puna Generating Station is located on the Island of Hawaii in the easterly part of the Island,
which is referred to as the Puna area. The station is located about 16 kilometers (km) south of
Hilo, near the town of Keaau. About 16 km west of the Padfic Ocean, ft is located in the upper
Waiakea forest reserve. Other than sparse pockets of development, abandoned sugar cane
fields surround the generating station.
Terrain in the area can be described as mountainous due to the proximity of Mauna Loa Volcanic
Mountain. Terrain elevations in this area range from 61 meters (m) near the Pacific Ocean to
570 m above mean sea level (MSL) within a 13-km radius of the fadlity. The elevation of the
Puna fadlity is approximately 67 m above MSL.
1.2. MeteorologylClimate
The Island of Hawaii is located in the trade wind band, a region in the north Padfic, dominated by
a semi-stationary high pressure center north of Hawaii. Wind dreulation around the high
pressure area is dockwise and outward from the center. The trade winds come to Hawaii from
the northeast to the east with the orographic channeling effect in some locations modifying the
intensity and direction of the winds. In general, the trade winds are more persistent in the
summer than in the winter (frequendes average 90 and 50 percent, respectively) and stronger in
the afternoon than at night At night the wind diredion becomes variable and blows out of the
mountains. This difference is due to the presence of the island's two largest mountains, Mauna
Kea and Mauna Loa.
The island terrain influences the dimate with rainfall amounts varying with elevation and location
and the effect of the persistent northeasterly snide winds. The Puna area receives between 130
inches of rain near the coastline and as much as 200 Inches of rain in the uppermost elevations
surtotuxfing the fadl'dy. The annual average temperature is 23.1 degrees C, with an average
dally maximum of 27.3 degrees C and the daily minimum of 21.8 degrees C (HECO 1972).
On~ite meteorological data are one of the required Inputs for dispersion modeling. HELC.O
began coUeding these data (irtduding wind speed and wind drrection) on February 6. 1996. The
monitoring station, Sfte 033, is located approximately 1.8 Ivn west soutlwvest of the Puna
Generating Station. The monitoring statlon was operated fn compliance with U.S. Fsvironmental
Protection Agency (EPA) guidelines. The wind rase for Site 033 fs shown in Figure 12-1. The
distribution dsplays the expected bt-modal distribr~ion and not the nornal trade wind
d,ararteristics. The winds blowing from the east are primarity daytime, while the winds from the
northwest are nighttime drainage winds from the higher tertain.
1.3. Existing Air Quality
The Puna Generating Station ambient air and meteorological postconstrudfon monitoring
program was located at a station located approximately 1.6 km west southwest of the Puna
Generating Station. The monitoring station is located in the area of maximum modeled impacts
from the Puna Generating Station. Therefore, the air quality data are representative of the
current air quality induding the existing Puna Station. The monitoring station provided data for
sulfur dioxide (SOS, particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter (PM~o), nitrogen dioxide
(NOS, carbon monoxide (CO), and ozone (O~ from January 1993 through December 1993.
Table 1.3-1 shows the resulting air quality data as well as the percent of data recovery. The data
collected at the monitoring station confirm that the operation of the existing Puna Generating
Station does not cause an exceedance of the State Ambient Air Quality Standards (SAAQS) or
the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS).
The worst air pollution episodes experienced on the Island of Hawaii are the result of volcanic
eruptions. Vsibility is reduced by the presence of fine particulate resulting directly from volcanic
activity and, secondarily, from forest fires caused by ensuing lava flows. In addition, there can be
substantial increases in the ambient concentrations of sulfur dioxide and a number of toxic
pollutants, such as heavy metals, during volcanic events.
2. Applicable Federal Regulations
Emissions of air pollutants are regulated at the federal level pursuant to the Clean Air Act (CAA).
The following are some of the major provisions of the CAA that potentially apply to any future
expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaicity:
• National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS)
New Source Review (NSR)
- Prevention of Sign cant Deterioration (PSD) Program
- Nonattainment NSR Regulations
• New Source Performance Standards (NSPS)
• National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants (NESHAP)
• Good Engineering Practice (GEP) Stack Height Provisions
21. (National and State Ambient Air 4uafiity? Standla~ds
The EPA has established two types of NAAQS spedfying maximum acceptable pollution levels
for outdoor air. The standards are designed with a margin of safety to protect the most sensitive
Individuals of the population. Primary sfeutdands set limits that protect public health. Secondary
standards protect public welfare. These standards must be attained in all areas that are
accessible to the general public The seven criteria pollutants for which NAAQSs have been
established are: sulfur dioxide (SOS, nitrogen dioxide (NOS, carbon monoxide (CO), ozone (Os),
particulate matter less than 10 microns (PMro), particulate matter less than 2.5 microns (PMza)
and lead (Pb).
Hawaii s State Ambient Air Quality Standards (SAAQS) for sulfur dioxide and PM,o are similar to
the federal NAAQS. The state has more stringent standards for carbon monoxide, ozone, and
nitrogen dioxide. The state standards for other criteria pollutants are identical to the NAAQS
except that the state has made no distinction between primary and secondary standards and that
2
Hawaii also has an additional standard for hydrogen sulfide (HZS). Table 2.1-1 shows the federal
and state ambient air quality standards.
22 New Source Review
PSD regulations (40 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 52.21) apply to major stationary sources
located in areas meeting the NAAOS. The PSD regulations define a major stationary source as
any source that belongs to a list of 28 categories that have the potential to emit 100 tons per year
(TPY) or more of any pollutant regulated under the CAA, or any other source type that has the
potential to emit pollutants in amounts equal to or greater than 250 TPY. The Puna Generating
Station is classified as a major stationary source.
If a modification to an existing major source is located in an area in compliance with the NAAOS,
a PSD review is required for all pollutants that have the potential for signirficant increases in
emissions because of the modification. Because the Puna area is designated either attainment
or unclassifiable for all the NAAOS, a PSD review will be required for ail pollutants that show a
significant increase.
The PSD regulations require states to designate all geographic areas into one of three classes:
• Class I applies to those areas where practically any deterioration in air quality would be
significant.
• Class II applies to areas where moderate, well-controlled and well-sited industrial growth
would be permitted.
• Class III applies where industrial areas would be allowed to experience the greatest
degree of air quality deterioration.
Pollutant-spedfic PSD review indudes:
• Application of Best Available Control Technology (RACY)
Analysis of ambient eir quality Impacts from the project (PSD Class II and ambient)
Anaysis of air quality and visibility impacts on Class I areas
Analysis of the Impact on things such es sods, vegetation, and visibility that are affected
directly as a resuR of air emissions from the project and general commercial, residential,
and other growth assodated with the project.
The State of Hawaii Department of Health (DOH) has designated the Puna area as Class il. The
dosest Class I area is the Volcanoes National Park, located approximately 14.4 miles southwest
of the project The Class I and Class II PSD increments and the NAAQS/SAAQS for sulfur
dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, PM/PM,o, and carbon monoxide are presented in Table 2.2-1. The
sign cant impact levels for sulfur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide, carbon monoxide, and PM/PM,o are
also presented.
Hawaii's attainment status for all criteria pollutants means that the nonattainment regulations do
not apply to any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaicity:.
3
23. New Source Performance Standards
The NSPS are a set of national emission standards that apply to new, mod'rfied, or reconstructed
stationary source categories. One of these standards, subpart GG indudes the emission
limitations that apply to a new, oil-fired combustion turbine. Spedfically, that subpart requires:
• Sulfur dioxide - 0.015 percent sulfur dioxide in the exhaust gas at 15 percent oxygen, or
0.8 percent sulfur fuel by weight, and
• Nitrogen oxide - 75 parts per million (PPM) in the exhaust gas at 15 percent oxygen and
on a dry basis.
Any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaicity: would comply with
these standards. DoH regulations (Section 11-60.1-38(b)) limit the fuel sulfur content to 0.5% by
weight for fossil fuel fired power and steam generating fadlities having a power generating output
in excess of 25 MW or a heat input greater than 250 MM BTU/hr.
24. National Emission Standards for Hazardous Air Pollutants
The NESHAP regulations currently do not apply to the Puna Generating Station since hazardous
air pollutant standards for fossil-fuel-fired power plants have not been developed by EPA.
2.5. Good Engineering Practice:Stack Height Provisions
The federal guidelines for GEP stack height apply to the project. These guidelines ident'rfy design
criteria acceptable to regulatory agendas to establish a method for determining the stack height
that will minimize the influence of nearby structures on normal plume dispersion.
3. Applicable Hawaii Regulations
In addition to the federal regulations, the State of Hawaii regulates air potludon under Hawaii
Administrative Rules (HAR), Title 11, Chapters 59 end 60.1; Hawaii State Ambient Air Quality
Standards (SAAQS); and Hawaii Air Pollution Control Rules, respectively.
Hawaii's State Ambient Air Quality Standards (SAAQS) for sulfur dw~dde end PM,o are similar to
the federal NAAQS. The state has more stringent standards for carbon monobde, omne, and
nitrogen do~3de. The state standards for the other criteria pollutants ere identical to the NAAQS
except that the state has made no dis8ndion between primary and secondary standards. Hawaii
also has an additional standard for hydrogen su~ide (HZS). The SAAQS are shown in Table 2.1-
1.
4. Project Impacts
Detailed estimates of the air quality impacts assodated with any future expansion of the Puna
Generating Station's generating capaicity: would typically be calculated by conducting an air
quality dispersion modeling anaysis. While that level of analysis is beyond the scope of this
impact evaluation, such an analysis will be conducted for and inducted with the CSP/PSD
application to be submitted to the Hawaii Department of Health. That analysis will meet the
a
requirements of federal and state air quality regulations. The following paragraphs describe how
that modeling analysis may be performed.
The potential ambient air quality impacts of any future expansion of the Puna Generating
Station's generating capaidty: are determined by means of dispersion modeling. EPA-approved
models will be used in the air quality analysis. The choice of appropriate dispersion modeling
methods for evaluating the air quality impacts for the any future expansion of generating capadty
is governed by EPA's modeling guidelines (40 CFR Part 51, Appendix W) and the topography of
the site area. The area surrounding the site consists of both simple and complex terrain, i.e., the
terrain- heights are below stack height in some areas and above stack height in others.
Therefore, a model with the ability to perform calculations in both simple and complex terrain will
be used. Two EPA-approved models, ISCST3 and ISC_RTDM, can pertorn the calculations.
Either model is suitable for the air quality analysis. ISCST3 contains COMPI FXI (an EPA-
approved complex tenain model) and ISC_RTDM contains RTDM which is also an EPA
approved complex terain model. Both ISCST3 and ISC_RTDM implement the EPA Intermediate
Terrain Guidance. An analysis of potential visibility impairment will be evaluated using the EPA
guideline model VISCREEN.
The computer models will be used along with the complete year of on-site meteorological data to
estimate air quality in the vidnity of the power plant when the facility is operating at its maximum
proposed emission rate. The modeled impact of the project will be compared with various
regulatory threshold concentrations. The purpose of the modeling is to demonstrate that the
operation of any proposed expansion of the HELCO Puna fadlity will not cause or contribute to a
violation of any PSD increment or ambient air quality standard.
The following is a list of the prindpal elements of the air quality impact assessment to be included
in the CSP/PSD application:
Identrfying the worst-case scenario,
Determining the impact area based on worst-case operating scenario,
• A PSD Class I Increment consumption analysis inducting visibility and air quality impacts,
• A PSD Class II Increment consumption analysis,
• NAAQS and SAAQS assessment,
• Non-criteria pollutant analysis, and
• Other potential air quality impacts (such as soils, vegetation, and visibll'ity).
4.1. Construction Air Emissions
Construction of the any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's generating capaidty.
would produce two types of emissions: (1) exhaust from vehides and construction equipment and
(2) dust generated during site excavation and equipment movement Equipment exhaust
emissions would be small, localized and transient. Dust emissions would be controlled by
watering the site during dry or windy periods.
5
4.2 Operational Air Emissions
Although no modeling has been pertormed for any future expansion of the Puna Generating
Station's generating capaicity:, recent modeling of the e>asting Puna Generating Station has been
pertormed for CSP application # 0235-01. This modeling includes the impact of the existing
Puna Generating Station sources. Emission rates for the existing Puna sources are shown in
Table 4.2-1. The modeling analysis demonstrates that predicted concentrations for the existing
Puna Generating Station are below the NAAOS and SAAQS. The modeling of the e>asting CT-3
and boiler at Puna provides a general estimate of the location and magnitude of maximum
impacts that may be expelled from a new combustion turbine and boiler. The EPA guideline
dispersion model ISCST3 was used to calculate ma~amum concentrations of combustion
pollutants that would potentially result from the exsting Puna Generating Station. The following
information was used to predict the maximum ground-level concentrations of air pollutants from
the Puna Generating Station:
A full year of Hilo airport meteorological data
The curenUy permitted souroes of emission rates as defined in CSP application # 0235-
01,which includes CT-3 and a boiler
The exsting fadiity configuration GEP analysis.
The modeling analysis predicted the ma~amum ground-level concentrations for nitrogen dioxide,
sulfur dioxide, PM,o, and carbon mono~ade. The modeling assessment only included sources
from the Puna Generating Station. All predicted concentrations were well below the
coresponding NAAQS and SAAQS. The SOZ 24hour modeling results showed the highest
percent of the standard at 53.3%. Most other modeling results were less than 17% of their
respective standard. CO, NO2, and annual PM,o maximum impacts were located 2 to 3 km
southwest of the fadlity in complex terrain. SOZ and short term PM,o maximum impacts were
located within 0.5 km of the fadlity in intermediate terrain.
4.3. impacts on Soils, Vegetation, and Visibility
Federal Primary Air Quality Standards are based on protection of human health. Federal
Secondary Air Quality Standards (which in most cases are no less stringent than primary
standards) are based on human 'WeHare; which fndudes such considerations as impacts to
vegetation, animals, visibigly, and comfort. Shx6es for the previous air permit application for the
power plant (HI 90-04) did not identify any sensitive soils or vegetation in the vidnity of the plant.
Therefore, since the maximum concentrations must be below the State Air Quality and Federal
Secondary Air Quality Standards, the soils and vegetation would not be significantly Impacted.
5. Mitigation Measures
Construction and operation of the any future expansion of the Puna Generating Station's
generating capaidty. would tie approved only when state and federal regulatory authorities are
satisfied that HELCO will be able to fully comply with the applicable rules, regulations, and air
quality standards. Additional mitigation measures may be established by the Hawaii Department
of Health (DoH) during the permitting process and may include limitations on the allowable size of
the fadlity, emission control technology requirements, or spedfications of fuel properties. The
s
projects design, including the stack height and emission controls, will be appropriate to minimize
adverse air quality impacts.
6. References
Hawaii State Department of Health. Hawaii Administrative Rules. Tide 11, Chapter 59. Ambient
Air Quality Standards.
Hawaii State Department of Health. Hawaii Administrative Rules. Title 11, Chapter 60.1. Air
Pollution Control.
Hawaiian Electric Company, Inc. (July 1992). Monitoring Plan to Pertorm Ambient Air and
Meteorological Monitoring for Unit 3 for Puna Generating Station, Hawaii. Submitted to the
Hawaii Department of Health.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations. 40 CFR 52.21.
"Prevention of Sign'rficant Deterioration "
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations. 40 CFR 51, Appendix W.
"Guideline on Air Quality Models (Revised) "
TABLE 1.3-1 EXISTING AIR QUALRY
Averaging Concentration %Date
Pollutant Per(od (g/m°) Recovery
SuMur Dioxide 3•hr 585 89
24-hr 117 89
Annual 5 89
fiA,o (Partbulate Matter lefts
than 10 microns h diameter) 24-hr 32 94
Annual 14 94
Nitrogen Oxide Annual 2 86
Carbon Nbnoxide 1-hr 800 90
8-hr 343 90
Ozone 1-hr 92 89
TABLE 2.1-1 SUMMARY OF STATE OF HAWAII AND FEDERAL AMBIENT AIR QUALITY STANDARDS
Hawaii Federel Federel Federel
- - State Primary Secondary Clara II PSD
Avereging Standard Standard' Standard ° Increment
Pollutant Period g/m~) g/m~) (g/ms g/ma
Carbon Monoxide lair 10,000 40.000 40.000
9-hr 6,000 10,000 10,000
Noopsn Oiottide Anrxral• 70 100 100 26
PMw (Partlctdate Maaar lees '
tlun 10 morons fn dfsmetar) 24ax 160 150 760 90
Amud • 60 60 60 17
Gzorte lair 700 235 235
StMur0ioxide 9av 1.800 - 1.7100 612
21-hr 985 885 - 91
AMtuil • 80 e0 ~
H/dropen SttMide 7-hr 36
teed 9trordlfs• 1b iS 1b
Pbtes:
Oesipned to prevsM adverse ellacls to pubic heeih.
Designed to ptwsM adverse eltacts an pubic w eiue, w hbh include effects on eorttod, vbib6ry,
vegststion. aNmab, aesthetics. and soirq eM deterioratbn of msteriale.
AriMmetie mean.
8
TABLE 2.2-1 SUMMARY OF IMPACT LEVELS, MONRORING LEVELS, PSD INCREMENTS, AND
STATE AND FEDERAL STANDARDS FOR SELECTED POLLUTANTS
Federel Federal Federal
Hawaii State Primary Secondary Class II PSD
Averaging Standard Standard' Standard ° Increment
Pollutant Period /m /ms /me /m°
arbon Monoxide 1-hr 10,000 40,000 40,000 -
8-hr 5000 10000 10000
Nit en Dioxide Annual ` 70 100 100 25
PMro (Partlculate Matter less
an 10 microns In diameter) 24-hr 150 150 150 30
Annual` 50 50 50 17
PMts (Particulate Matter less
2.5 microns in diameter) 24-hr none 50 50 none
Annual` none 15 15 none
=one 1-hr 100 235 none -
ulfur Dioxide 3-hr 1.300 - 1,300 512
24-hr 365 355 - 91
Annual` 60 60 - 20
H ro en Sulfide 1-hr 35 - - -
Lead 3 months ` 1.5 1.5 1.5 -
Notes:
Designed to prevent adverse effects to public health.
° Designed to prevent adverse effects on public welfare, which Mdude effects an comfort, vislbllity,
vegetatlon, animals, aesthetlcs, end soiling and deterioration of metedels.
` Adthmetlc mean.
TABLE 4.2-1 PUNA EMISSIONS DATA USED IN EXISTING AIR QUAl1T'Y MODEI~NG ANALYSIS
U
unltlD SO PM NO CO
~ 13.66 248 5.33 59.93
Soper 69.1 9.02 24.06 2.08
9
FIGURE 1.2-1 WIND ROSE
FREQUENCY OF WIND SPEED 8. DIRECTION
N
-
~ \
~ i \
~ , _ _ ~ \ \
~ i ~ ~ \ \
/ ~ ~
/ ~ \ \ \
i ~ \ \
/ ~ \
~ / ~ ~ ~ 9 t2 15 SB
I , 6
W~ , I I z.sa . ~ E
i1 ~ i ,6 = CALM--r----~ i I i
i
/ I I I
12 9 \ \ / / / I
15 )6 \ \ / / I
\ \ \ / / / I
\ \ \ ~ ~ ~ /
~ /
\ \ ~ ~ i ~ /
~ \ ~ ~ i
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ / ~ ~
~ ~ _ _ - ~
~ i
~ i
~ ~ ~ - . _ i
~ ~
~ ~
~ i
PUNA SODAR
t ~ 02i05i96-02i04i97
1-= 4-6 7-10 11-1617-2122-99
(7 s) t78 s)(42 s)t10 s)t0 s) (0 ~
WIND SPEED SCALE (KNOTS) ~ n d s o t, 75m Le v e I
NOTE - WIND DIRECTION IS THE
DIRECTION WIND IS BLOWING FRO
10
Appendix D
Agency Comment Letters
United States Department of the Interior
Qom. * FISH AND WII.DLIFE SERVICE
' s Ecological Services -Pacific Islands Ecoregion
~ " 300 Ala Moana Blvd., Room 3-122
P.O. Box 50088 _
Honolulu, Hawaii 96850
Phone: (808) 541-3441
FAX: (808) 541-3470
APR 2 4 1998
In Reply Refer To: EAS
AI Lono Lyman
CH2M Hill
1585 ICapiolani Blvd. Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814
Dear Mr. Lyman:
RE: Hawaii Electric Light Company's Puna Generating Station Land Use District Boundary
Amendment and Rezoning, TMK 1-06-03:93
Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on your letter dated Mazch 25, 1998,
concerning the Hawaii Electric Light Company's (IiELCO) Puna Generating Station Land Use
District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning, TMK 1-06-03:93.
HELLO is currently operating under a special use permit for their current activities and is
seeking to rezone the site. HELLO wants to redesignate the site to the State's urban district,
and rewne the site to the County's general industrial designation. HELLO wattts to do this
since the current use of the site is consistent with uses permitted under the general industrial
designation. HELLO currently has ao plans to either increase the generating capacity at the
pone Generating Station or increase the intensity of ancillary uses at the site. However,
HELLO anticipates that the site's generating capacity and ancillary uses will be increased at
some time in the future.
No significant adverse impacts to fish and wildlife resources are expected to result from the
proposed zoning change. However, the Service would like you to be aware that the Hawaiian
hawk (Buteo solitarius) and Hawaiian hoary bat (Lasiurus cinereus semotus) have been sighted
in the proximity of the generating station.
The Service appreciates the opportunity to comment on the proposed zoning change. If you have
questions regarding these comments, please contact Fish and Wildlife Biologist Elizabeth Sharpe
by telephone at 808/541-3441 or by facsimile transmission at 8081541-3470.
Sincerely,
Y.YL~ ' `
Brooks Harper
Field Supervisor
Ecological Services
cc: NMFS-PAO, Honolulu
USEPA-Region ]X, San Francisco
r ~
~ assr, 4
23JAMlN J. GAYETANO ~ JAMES J. NAKATAN)
~ Y Chahpwso4 Board or Aprkv9ure
t t~TfTUI N. UYEHARA
M,.ws'v Deputy b the Che4person
State of Hawaii ?.tet°"9 "ddR"'
ao.6otcut59
DEPARTMEPfT OF AGRICULTURE Ftonduiu, Hawa59682YZts9
1428 South sang Street Foc (808)917.9617
Honolulu. Hawaii 96814.2512
June 4, 1998
FACSIMILE TRANSMITTAL (3 pages) 941-8225
To: Al Lyman (943-7135, ext. 218)
CH2MHi11
From: Earl Yamamoto (973-9466)
Subject: ALISH/LSB for Big Island
TMK: 1-6-03: 93
Land Study Bureau Detailed Land Classification, Island of Hawaii
(November, 1965), map 654. Parcel 93 has a "U" or urban use
rating, reflecting the industrial use of the area. Former
sugarcane lands .surrounding the mill site have an overall
Productivity Rating of "C" and have fair productivity potential
for most crops.
Agricultural Lands of Importance to the State of Hawaii (ALISH)
system (January, 1977), map H-66. Parcel 93 does not have an
ALISH rating (see attached maps).
enclosures (2)
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BIENJAMIN J. CAYETANO t ROY E. OSN10.0
oovEaNOa ~ ;I~ ExecurrvE Oiaccroa
d~Yi.~A~
STATE OF HAWAII IN aEnY REFER rO
DEPARTMENT OF BUDGET AND FINANCE
HOUSING FINANCE AND DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION gg ; DEV/1180
6T7 QUEEN STREET. SUITE 700
HONOLULU. MAWAll 08877
FA% (BOB) SBT-0600
April 1, 1998
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M Hill
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
SUBJECT: Request for Agency Comments
Hawaii Electric Light Company's Puna
Generating Station
Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
TMK (3) 1-06-03: 93
The Housing Finance and Development Corporation (HFDC)
acknowledges receipt of your letter dated March 25, 1998
requesting comments to the above subject proposed Land Use
District Amendment and Rezoning for Hawaii Electric Light
Company's (HELLO) Puna Generating Station.
HFDC has no objections to HELCO's proposed Land Use District
Amendment and Rezoning. The proposed actions appear to conform
land use designations to an existing, continuing and essential
use which originated from Puna Sugar operations.
Should there be any questions or comments regarding this matter,
please contact Stan Fujimoto, Project Manager, at 587-0539.
Sincerely,
ROY S. OSHIRO
Executive Director
1
H F A C
BENJAMW.I.CAYETANO
OF H,M• GOVERNOR
~oeo,a t, 6EIJ~RECroR
r ~ DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, aRAGr.EY.L IAGSSNAN
DErurr DIRECroR
~ ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM RICKEGCED
DIRECTOR, OFFlCE OF FLMiNING
*.,V~~ No. 1 Capitol District Bldg., 250 South Holel St., 5th Fir., Honolulu, Hawaii 96813 Tel.: (BOB) 566-2355
Malting Address: P.O. Box 2359, Honolulu, Hawaii 96804 Fax: (806) 586-2377
Ref. No. P-7361
- April 27, 1998
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M HII.L, Inc.
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard
Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814
Dear Mr. Lyman:
Subject: Request for Agency Comments Concerning Hawaii Electric Light Company's
(1~LC0) Puna Generating Station Land Use District Boundary Amendment
and Rezoning, TMK: 1-06-03: 93 (10.5 acres)
We have received your letter dated March 25, 1998, requesting written comments from our
agency regarding HELCO's proposed boundary amendment and rezoning for the Puna Generating
Station.
According to the information provided, the power generating activity was an ancillary use
of a permitted sugar operation. When the sugar operations ceased, HELLO acquired a portion of
the mill site and the adjoirt}ng railroad right-of-way in order to continue genetsung power. The
Hawaii County Planning Commission approved HELCO's request for a Special Permit in 1988.
The permit allowed HELLO to establish the electric power plant and the related improvements as
the principal use of the site. In 1992, HELLO initiated setvrce with its 20.8-MW GT-3 generating
unit at the Puna Generating Station. HELLO is seeking to reclassify the 10.5-acre site from the
Agriculttual to the Urban District and to rezone the site from the A-20 agricultural zoning district to
the County's general industrial district (MG).
The Puna Generating Station site is less than one-half mile from Keaau Town, and one
quarter of a mile from the closest point of the proposed Keaau Bypass Road. In 1993, three areas
consisting of approximately 660 acres around the Keaau Town core were reclassified from the
Agricultural District to the Urban District. Currently, the landowner, W.H. Shipman, Ltd. is
developing a master plan for the 660 acres, and has begun discussions with a developer regarding
residential development The surrounding land uses consist mainly of formerly cultivated sugaz
cane lands, vacant lands, small agricultural operations, and homes. Most of the surrounding
properties are large pazcels of land which are also owned by W.H. Shipman, Ltd.
With plans for schools, housing, and other urban uses underway, HELCO's expectations
that the site's generating capacity and ancillary uses will be increased at some time in the future are
most likely correct. However, while the location of school facilities has been determined, the _
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Aprll 27, 1998
location of other urban uses within the reclassified 660 acres have not been finalized. Further,
some agricultural operations may be relocated, with W.H. Shipman offering land.
Since HELCO currently has no plans to either increase the generation capacity at the Puna
Generating Station or increase the intensity of ancillary uses, the applicant should explain the need
for a boundary amendment from the Agricultural to the Urban Distract at this time. According to
the information provided, it is our understanding that any expansion of the site's generating
capacity or ancillary uses is allowed under the current Special Permit No. 686.
Sincerely,
Seiji F. Naya
cc: Ms. Esther Ueda, LUC
Rick Egged, OP
F~•
~ ,w~~,
UMWNJ.CAYET11N0 MIMgRTx1E OfVElDP4EM
rfrtEMrt a ~uwK 'NOON~EE
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C016FA~/AflpN Mq
VM.I~ EM4gEMEMf1 KfMpS
OOIIBERIMIION Np
FFWUFCEi ENFOgCEMEM
STATE OF HAWAII Mla~
DEPARTMENT OFLANDAND NATURALRESOURCES ~MaFE
DIVISION OF LAND MANAGEMENT sr~re f~wa
WATER KIO IHO OEYFLCWMENi
ro. eox oas
HILO. HAWMI Yfi7Y1-003fi
April 20, 1998
CH2M Hill, Inc.
1585 Kapiolani Blvd #1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
SUBJECT: Request for agency comments concerning Hawaii Electric
Light Co.'s Puna generating station land use district
boundary amendment and rezoning, tmk: (3) 1-6-3-93.
Attention: Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
Gentlemen:
Thank you for your letter dated March 25, 1998, concerning
applications to amend the State Land Use boundary designation .and
County zoning designation.
we have no comments to provide. Should you have any
questions, please call my office at 974-6203.
sincerely,
Charlene E. Unoki
xc: Hawaii HM ,
Support Services
<O/l.CAYtTANO • - MIC74L[LD. MUtOR,Q1AilVttipN
tgROf IIAWM rrf ~~~4 tOARO Of IANO AIaNATV1IAL R[tOVRGEi
OEf1RlCt
~ ~ Gilbert Colaas-Agaran
AWACOLTMEOEVElOPMENT
PnOfitR1.1
STATE OF HAWAII AWATK Kt01N1CEf
CONENWAHOI/Ila1
DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES coNtERVAiw
~ wFf~~
tTATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION ONISION RE60U1CEt ENFORCEMErR
~7 LOUTH KING 6TRE[T. 0TH FLOOR EONYEYANCEc
April 14, 1997 HONOLULV. HAWAII t991~ 'fal~ECr"r Ara w40ufE
gtTORIC M[LFAVATgH
IXN9011
LAND MANAGOAFM
RATE PAIKL
WATER A,a lNa OEVELOPMEM
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
CH2M Bill
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
LO^.>r NO: 19305
DOC NO: 9704PM04
Dear Mr. Lyman:
SUBJECT: HELCO Puna Generating Station
Keaau, Puna, Hawaii Island
TMK: 1-6-03: 93 (formerly 1-6-03: Por. 5)
This is in response to your memo dated March 24, 1997 to Ross Cordy, Archaeology Branch
Chief, regarding HELCO's wish to change both the County of Hawaii zoning and the State Land
Use Boundary designation for their Puna Generating Station.
We have reviewed all of the correspondence you sent relating to historic sites on the subject
property, including the letter of September 21, 1988 from then Chairperson, William W. Paty
Because the area has been so extensively disturbed we believe that there are no significant historic
sites remaining on the subject property. We thus believe that the proposed retuning and boundary
designation changes will have "no effect" on historic sites.
If you should have any questions please contact Patrick McCoy (587-000~.
Sincerely,
DON BARD, Administrator
State FLstoric Preservation Division .
PM:els
i
~ YYMLIVM W. MTV. WIAIRPRR~p,
A •P• , f, EOMO p IAMD AMO 1111TY111LL RRIOYRQ{
OEFIIIIES
LIBERT K. LANOGRAF ~
~ YANA9U TARCOM,ORI
'w~r•PA'A RUSSELL N. FUKUMOTO
STATE OF HAWAII aUACULTYRE OEVEIDPMENT
DEPARTMENT OF LAND AND NATURAL RESOURCES ADUA~nc
R~ESauacES
coNEEmAnoN AND
P. O. BOX 621 ENVIRONMENTAL AFFAIRS
HONOLULU. INWAII S6S09 CONSFJIVATION AND
RESOURCES ENWRCEMENT
CONVEYANCES
FORESTRY AND WRDLIFE
SEP 2 I Ig$g lANO MANAGEMENT
STATE PARKS
WATER ANO lANO OEYELOPMENT
DOC. NO.: 4299E
FILE NO.: 89-097
Honorable Albert Lono Lyman, Director
:nty of Hawaii
.nning Department
Aupuni Street
.o, Hawaii 96720
iJECT: Special Permit Application (SP 88-22)
Applicant: HELCO
Tax Map Key 1-6-03: Por. 5
it Mr. Lyman:
Thank you for giving our Department the opportunity to comment
this matter. We have reviewed the materials you submitted and
ae the following comments.
Our Department's Historic Sites~Section indicates that since
is application only requests continued use of the existing plant
:ilities, there will be "no effect" on significant historic
tes. }
Please feel free tc call me or Roy Schaefer of our Office of
nservation and Environmental Affairs, at 548-7837, if you have
y questions.
Very truly yours,
s
WILLIAM W. PA airperson
Board of Lan and Natural Resources
e, .
? Nq"~~
uwBENCE µn~
~x~ t cAreuxo
o~era~oF ~m
awe~+o~ ac n~
4 ~."eI"
STATE OF HAWAII
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH _
~OIY. MMM 101af b:
P.O. BOX $978 EMO • CAB
HONOW W. HAWNI B6B01
April 3, 1998
- 98-A146
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2MHILL
1585 Kapiolani Bivd., Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
Subject: Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
Hawaii Electric Light Company's Puna Generating Station
Thank you for allowing us to review and comment on the proposed land use boundary.
amendment and rezoning of the HELCO's Puna Generating Station site.
The Clean Air Branch, Department of Health has no comments on the proposed boundary
amendment and rezoning, however, would like to offer the following clarifications on the air
pollution control requirements:
1. The air permits are not "discretionary permits." Anew air permit or a permit
amendment is required to be obtained prior to initiating construction on any plant
modification that will result in an emission increase. This includes, as applicable, any
increase in the generating capacity and ancillary uses at the generating station.
2. Any proposed plant modifications are required to comply with ali state and federal air
requirements including the national ambient air quality standards.
3 The Puna Generating Station 7s considered a major soures .of air emissions and subject
to the covered source permit provisions, Depending on the level of emission increase
from a proposed modification, there are different permitting actions, each incorporating
different procedural and public participation requirements. The public participation
requirements range from no public participation for a minor modification to a 30-day
public comment period followed by a public hearing for a significant modification
triggering the federal Prevention of Significant Deterioration (PSD) review.
If you have any questions, please call Mr. Nolan Hirai of my staff at (808) 586-4200.
Sincerely,
WIL~2ED K. NAGAIIAINE
Manager, Clean Air Branch
NH/gk
NJAAIIN J. CAYETANO << e • M~ KAII! NAYASt1IDA
OOVEIWO(1 w~
• • 9RIAM K MINMI
GLENN M.OIDMOTO
~~'~e1J~A
STATE OF HAWAII IN gEPLY REFER TO:
DEPARTMENT OFTRANSPORTATION STp 8,8515
869 PUNCHBOWL STREET
HONOLULU, HAWAII 96613-5097
Apri16, 1998
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M HILL, INC.
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard, Suite 1420
Honolulu, Hawaii 96814-4530
Deaz Mr. Lyman:
Subject: HELCO's Puna Generating Station
Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
TMK: 1-06-03: 93
Thank you for your transmittal of Mazch 25, 1998.
The subject project will not affect our State transportation facilities.
We appreciate the opportunity to provide comments.
Very truly yours,
KAZU HAYASHIDA
Director of Transportation
c: Ms. Virginia Goldstein, Hawaii Planning Department
dR~': ~ Donna Fay IG Kiyosaki
phen K Yamaahiro • •
Mayor Jim A. Sumach
••~ra'er w Deputy Ch1tf Enginur
(n~uut~ ~f ~lxftr~tti
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
25 Aupuni Sweet, Room 202 • Hilo, Hawaii 96720252
(608)961-8321 • Fax (808)961-8630
April 16, 1998
MR AL LONG LYMAN
CH2M HILL
1585 KAPIOLANI BOULEVARD
HONOLULU HI 96814-4530
SUBJECT: CHANGE OF ZONE APPLICATION PREPARATION
Applicant: HELCO
Location: Keaau, Puna, Hawaii
TMIC: 1-6-03:093
We have reviewed the subject application and our comments are as follows:
1. Buildings shall conform to all requirements of code and statutes pertaining to building
construction.
2. A building permit will be required for the change of use. Different code sections and
standards on building construction may apply.
3. All development generated runoff shall be disposed of on-site and shall not be directed
toward any adjacent properties.
4. All earthwork and grading shall conform to Chapter 10, Erosion and Sediment Control, of
the Hawaii County Code.
5. Solid waste management shall conform to the rules and regulations of the DPW, Solid
Waste Division.
6. Wastewater disposal shall meet the rules and regulations of the DPW, Wastewater
Division.
Letter to Mr. AI Lyman
April 16, 1998
page 2
7. All roads within the area and leading up to the site from the Hawaii Belt Road are
considered private. These roadways aze existing gravel roads and are substandazd under
general industrial zoning. A roadway variance should be obtained from the County of
Hawaii, Planning Department.
Should there be any questions concerning this matter, please feel free to contact Mr. Casey
Yanagihaza of our Engineering Division at (808) 961-8327.
~SBALEN M. KUBA, Division Chief
Engineering Division
CKY/KG
c: Planning Department
t
Virginia Cioldstcin
IG Yamuhiro ~ • • ~ Dlrater
Mazer iQornull Olecetl
'c Dcputy Dlreaor
A• r
Cnlrixnf~r ~ t£ixttr`r'trY
PLANNING DEPARTMENT
25 Aupud Street, Room 109 lrtto, Ffawdi 96720{252
(808) 9fi1-0288 • Fts (808) 9fi1Afi15
February 3, 1997
Mr. AI Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2M Hill
1585 Kapiolani Blvd.
Suite 1420
Honolulu,HI 96814-4530
Dear Mr. Lyman:
Special Permit No. 686 (SPP 686)
Applicant: Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.
Permitted Use: Establishment of an Electric Power
Plant and related improvements
Tax Map Key 1-6-3.93 Keaau Puna Hawaii
This is in response to your letter dated January 2, 1997, relating to the above-referenced
Special Permit No. 686.
We have reviewed our files and hereby confirm that the HELCO's Puna Generating Station
situated on the subject site is located within the area designated as "Industrial" by the
General Plan Land Use Pattern Guide (LUPAG) Map. Further, Special Permit No. 686 does
not impose any conditions limiting the generating capacity of the power plant nor the
construction of related improvements. According to the hearing transcript of the
November 15, 1988, Planning Commission hearing, a representative from HELLO indicated
that the existing plant then needed to be more efficient and possibly increase the number of
megawatts. Therefore, we affirm that the Special Permit does allow HELLO to expand its
electric power plant and related improvements on the subject property.
Mr. Al Lono Lyman
Page 2
February 3, 1997
Subsequent to the approval of Special Permit No. 686, plan approvals were granted by the
Planning Director and building permits were issued by the Department of Public Works
Building Division for the combustion turbine #3 control house, combustion turbine #3 six
steel tanks, a 250-foot stack, storage building and other improvements. Please be advised
that should there be any additional improvements to the generating station site, plan
approvals must be secured from this department as well as approvals from other affected
government agencies.
Should you have any questions on this matter, please feel free to contact Alice Kawaha or
Susan Gagorik of this department at 961-8288.
,Slincerely, ~
V yN Uv .
VIIt~G
I~IIA~O TEIN
Planning Director
AK:dc
P: W P60~DORYALLL.LYMAN.SPP
xc: Mr. Clyde Nagata, Manager, Engineering Department, HELCO
TMK Files 1-6-3:5 and 1-6-3:93
:x ~:x
:phen IG Yamashim ~ • • ~ Diane S. Quitiquit
Mayor Dlrater
•~r~ YMk'N
f1~IIUxtf~r ~ f~tttt
DEPARTMENT OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT
25 Aupuni Sheet, Room 219 • Htlo, Hawaii %T10-4252 • (808) 961-&766 • Faz (808) 9351205
KONA: (808) 329-5226 • Fax (808) 3265663
- E-mail: chtesdev@interyac.net
Apri17, 1998
Ivlr. AI Lono Lyman
Senior Project Manager
CH2MIiILL
1585 ICapiolani Blvd., Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
Dear Ivlr. Lono:
Re: Request for Agency Comments Concerning Hawaii Electric Light Company's
Puna Generating Station Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning,
TNIK 1-06-03:03
Thank you for the opportunity to review the referenced subject. This department has no
comments to offer regazding the proposed boundazy amendments and rezoning at this
time.
Sincerely,
'
Raymond Can:
Energy Coordinator
xe: Diane Quitiquit, Director
o`~ ~'G
10 a DEPARTMEI\IT OF WATER SUPPLY COUh1TY OF HAWAII
~ 26 AUPUNI STREET HtLO, HAWAII 96720
o~~ 8~ NIf?\\•!~
TELEPHONE (808) 981.9660 FAX (609) 961-9667
May 26, 1998
_ 28
Mr. Al Lono Lyman, Senior Project Manager
CH2M Hill, Inc.
1585 Kapiolani Boulevard. Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI 96814-4530
HAWAII ELECTRIC LIGHT COMPANY'S PUNA GENERATING STATION
LAND USE DISTRICT BOUNDARY AMENDMENT AND REZONING
TAX MAP KEY 1-06-003:093
Thank you for contacting this Department regarding the proposed subject land uses.
We have no objections to the Land Use District Boundary Amendment and Rezoning
that you will be seeking.
Our records show that this parcel is not currently connected to our system.
Water, however, is available from a ten (10)-inch line that is in the easement
described below.
We have two (2) existing facilities and one easement that abut your client's
parcel. Specifically:
1. Our Ola'a Wells A and B are on Tax Map Key: 1-6-003:055. These wells are
both in use. There are Department of Health Rules that apply to parcels
within a predetermined distance of a drinking water well. We recommend that
you consult with them.
2. Our Puna Sugar Mill chlorinator station is on the other part of Tax Map
Key: 1-6-003: 055. This facility is in use.
3. We have an easement that runs along and outside of the eastern, northern.
and western boundary of your client's parcel.
UVaf¢r ~rin~d ~ro~r¢ey
Mr. Al Lono Lyman. Senior Project Manager
Page 2
May 26. 1998
Enclosed is a copy of the volume of water pumped from each of the Department's
wells for the month of December 1997. The wells of concern to you are the Ola"a
Wells A, B. and C.
Should you have any questions, please contact our Water Resources and Planning
anch at 961-8660.
f ilto D. Pavao. P.E.
anage
B
Enc.
a~ tuts
~b~
i
It 11
DEPARTMENT OF WATER SUPPLY • COUNTY OF HAWAII
4,, 4r M111~11'~, 25 AUPUNI 57q EET • KILO. HAWAII 96i 20
TELEPHONE 18061969~tt21 FAX 1806)969~699b
February 20,1998
Mr. Ed Sakoda. Acting Deputy Director
Commission on wrier Resource Management
P.O.Box 621
Honolulu, HI 96809,
Month of: DECEMBER 1997
BIG ISIAND WELL PUMPAGE REPORT
Listed below are the pumpage data from our Big Island weAs:
WELL GALLONS/10006 WELL GALLONS/10006
Panaewo #1 74,537.4 Kahdw WeA B 26,440.2
Panaewa #2 38.891.6 Kahalw WeA C 26.196.9
Panaewa #3 32945.8 Kahduu weA D 0.0
Pll~onua Rez #3/A 60.043.9 HoWdoa WeA 13.313.1
Pilhonua Res #3/B 51.323.6 Kdooa weA 12260.0
Papdkov weA 7.208.5 Hdekil WeN 18.828.3
Kuldmano (Pepeekeo) 314.1 Keei weA A 2900.8
~r waileo-Hakdau 19.6 Keei Wed B 3,751.0
Paauib weA 3.131.0 Keei WeA C 286.5
Haina 12641.8 - Keei WeAD 17,128.9
Kukuihaele A 1,671.9 Queen LlTiuokalani Trust 29,726.2
Kukuihaele B 0.0 Olaa weA A 1.6523
Laupahoehoe A 0.0 ~ Olaa weA B 865.9
Laupahoehoe B 1.140.8 01aa WeA C 26.376.0
Lalamilo weA A 15.641.7 Keonepoko Pahoa 8.023.8
Lalartulo WeA B 42574.5 Pahoa WeA #1 1.755.0
Lalomilo weA C 37,931.6 Pahoa well #2 260x.0
Lalamilo weA D 0.0 Kdapana Well #1 1.285.1
Kawaihae well # I 0.0 Kdaparw WeA #2 0.1
Kawalhae WeA #2 0.0 Kapoho WeAs 0.0
Hawi 527 Nadehu Deep weA 1.366.2
Kahaluu Shaft 1.2.3 131.443.8 Pohala Deep well 5.036.1
Kohaluu Well A 28.200.6
Subtotal 539.715.0 Subtotal 199.796.a
i
~ Grand Total: 739.51 I.4
i
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LOCATION MAP Koala
Hamakua
BR93-699 /OFFICE OF STATE PLANNING,
STATE OF HAWAII
Hilo
TAX MAP KEY:1 - 6 - 03: por. 3• por. 7, por. 8. por. 11• por. 12•
Kooa
por. 13, por. 14, por. 15, por. 68.76. & 84 Puna
KEAAU. PUN0. HAWAII Kau
SCALE: 1• = 2,000 ft t
HAWAII
PETITION.AREA -SLR-~ " uY~~
Exhibit ~ EXHIBIT •A'
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
COUNTY OF HAWAII
HILO, HAWAII
y~ ~ DATE : December 9, 1998
i~/l~~Jt4~l~f.C~l.Lajt
TO- PLANNING DEPARTMENT
_
FROM ~-~ENGINEERIN IVISIO = _4
l
SUBJECT STATE LAND USE BOUNDARY AMENDMENT (SLU 98-9)
CHANGE OF ZONE APPLICATION (REZ 98-26) ~
r~
Applicant: Hawaii Electric Light Co., Inc.
TMK: 3 / 1-6-03: 93
We have reviewed the subject application and our comments are as follows:
1. Buildings shall confomt to all requirements of code and statutes pertaining to building
construction. All structures shall be designed for Seismic Zone 4.
2. All development generated runoff shall be disposed an-site and shall not be directed
toward any adjacent properties.
3. All earthwork and grading shall conform to Chapter 10, Erosion and Sediment Control, of
the Hawaii County Code.
4. The Hawaii Belt Highway (Mamalahoa Highway) and a portion of the Old Volcano Road, is
under the jurisdiction of the Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT). Comments
and requirements concerning these roads should be directed to the HDOT.
The Old Volcano Road, south of the Keaau Loop Road, is a County Road. All other
roadways leading up to the project site are private.
5. Identify the Keaau By-Pass Highway, and all fuming movements in relation to this
application, for further review and comments.
6. Roadways leading up to the subject•site, from the Mamalahoa Highway and the Old
Volcano road, are substandard. This includes the private Keaau Road.
Planning Department shall determine the extent of improvements necessary along these
private access roads. DPW recommends that the applicant provide full business and
industrial street standards.
Should there be any questions concerning t~~~9r~~se feel free to contact Casey
Yanagihara in our Engineering Division at Gil' Q~,~
CKY
CH2M HILL
t 585 Kapiolani Blvo
Suite 1420
Honolulu, HI
CH2MHILL - 1` ~ ; 999,4-4530
,c2r...,
" t" ~ 7el 908.943.1133
Fax 808.941.8225
1.. ~ .n..:l
December 17,1998
137077.B1.22
Mr. Casey Yanagihara
Department of Public Works, Engineering Division
County of Hawaii
25 Aupuni Street
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Deaz Mr. Yaziagihaza:
Subject. State Land Use Boundary Amendment (SLU 98.9) Change of Zone Application
(REZ 98-26), Tax Map Parcel 1-6-03:93, Applicant: Hawaii Electric Light
Company
This letter responds to comment 5 in the Departrnent of Public Works' comment letter dated
December 9,1998. The comment letter concerned Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc.'s
(HELLO) State Land Use Boundary Amendment (SLU 98-9) Change of Zone Application
(REZ 98-26) for TMK 1-6-03:93. Comment 5 requested additional information concerning
the State's Keaau Bypass Road and its relation to the HELLO Puna Generating site.
Accompanying this letter is an information packet distributed by the State of Hawaii,
Department of Transportation, Highways Division at their November 18,1998,
informational meeting concerning the bypass road. Also enclosed is a single sheet
depicting the connection between the private road and the bypass road in the immediate
vicinity of the HELCO's Puna Generating Station.
The information packet states that the intersection of Volcano Road (Route 11) and Keaau
Bypass Road is one of four major intersections that will be channelized and signalized. It
also states that the one minor intersection to be channelized is depicted as "Road 'C'
(leading to Diamond's papaya treatment plant) with the Keaau Bypass Road, and the
Volcano Road (Route 11) intersection with the bypass road, in the vicinity of Keaau Loop,
will be reconstructed." The private road to the HELLO site is the same road serving the
Diamond papaya treatment plant.
Regarding the fuming movements in relation to the subject application, once the bypass
road is completed, vehicles traveling to and from the HELLO site would pass through the
channelized intersection connecting the Keaau Bypass Road to the private road, and would
also pass through the channelized and signalized intersection at the northern junction of the
Keaau Bypass Road and Volcano Road (Route 11). The single sheet accompanying this
OltS~i
Mr. Casey Yanagihara
Department of Public Works, Engineering Division
County of Hawaii
December 17,1998
Page 2
letter depicts the channelized intersection in the vicinity of the private road leading to the
HELCO site. HELCO has an easement over the access road that will connect with the
northern segment of the bypass road.
Should you have any questions concerning this letter, please call me by telephone at (808)
943-7135, extension 218.
Sincerely,
CH2M HILL, INC.
T
Al Lono
Senior Project Manager
Enclosures (2)
cc: Virginia Goldstein, Planning Director, County of Hawaii
'cNJAMIN J. CAVETANO t~ o r N, KAZU HAYA8HIDA
GOVERNOR : r U1r ~1r OIRECIOR
DEPUTY OIHECTORS
BRIAN K. MINAAI
~ l t3LENN M.OKIMOTO
AS{
~rM•~
`STATE OF HAWAII ~ IN REPLY REFER TO:
DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION
HIGHWAYS DIVISION
HAwul DISTRICT
50 MAKAAU STREET
P.O. BOX 12'77
HILA, HAWAII 98720
~ TELEPHONE: (80B) 833.8888 • FAX: (008) 833-8889
Keaau Bypass Road
Informational Meeting
November 18,1998
Aloha and welcome to our third informational meeting for the Keaau Bypass Road.
This meeting will be very informal, several tables have been set up for one-on-one and
small group discussions with project design personnel,
Each table will contain the same illustrations and documents. Feel free to ask any
questions of any staff design personnel. If you would like the State Highways Division
to address any concern, on any issue, please fill out the comment sheet. You may give it
to any person at the tables or you could take it home and mail it back to us, our address
is printed at the top of the comment sheet.
Please stay as long as you want. Please help yourself to the refreshments that have been
provided and thank you for taking time out of your busy day to attend this informational
meeting.
Sincerely,
tanley Tamur
District Engineer
.
Prgject Descri to ion
The Keaau Bypass Road will be a 2.2 mile long, four lane, divided highway. The
bypass road will begin at the existing cane haul road, locally called the Old Keaau Road
or Shipman Road. The bypass road will end near the Humane Society. The Keaau
Bypass Road Project is tentatively scheduled for completion by mid-July 1999.
Tli~ICeaau Bypass Road will have four major intersections that are channelized and
signalized:
1. Volcano Road (Route 11) with the Keaau Bypass Road;
2. Milo Street with the Keaau Bypass Road;
3. Keaau Kula Road (high school connector) with the Keaau Bypass Road;
4. Road 'B' (connecting spur road to existing Keaau-Pahoa Road) with the.
Keaau Bypass Road.
The one minor intersection that will be channelized is Road `C' (leading to Diamond's
papaya treatment plant) with the Keaau Bypass Road. The Volcano Road (Route 11)
intersection with the Keaau Bypass Road, in the vicinity of Keaau Loop, will be
reconstructed.
Please note that the pedestrian overpass at Milo Street has been deleted from the plans
and that the Milo Street intersection with the Keaau Bypass Road has been finalized as
a channelized, T-intersection, with traffic signals.
There will be a one-way detour around the construction site for approximately eight (8)
months. The detour is tentatively set for late December or early January. A public
notice will be printed in the newspaper prior to rerouting traffic on the detour.
0 0
Keaau Elementary School and Keaau High School
Progress Status
November 18, 1998
1. Keaau Elementary School
9,' Opening to classroom schedule: 1/4/99.
b. Classes to accommodate Kindergarten and First Grade students.
c. Expected enrollment, approximately 280 students.
d. Buildings available:
(1) Administration/Library Building
(2) Classroom Building (14 classrooms plus 2 Special Education classrooms).
(3) Covered Playcourt.
(4) Cafetorium.
e. Administration /Library/Classrooms will be air conditioned for eventual year
round operation.
f. Increment 2
(1) Two classroom buildings.
(2) Construction started 10/15/98. Completion expected in late 1999.
(3) Air conditioned.
(4) Twenty-six classrooms total plus 3 Special Education classrooms.
(5) At completion, School will be a Kindergarten to Fifth grade (K -5) facility.
g. Present Keaau Elementary School is intended to be converted to a middle school.
2. Keaau High School (First Increment)
a. Opening to classroom schedule: 8/23/98.
a. Class to accommodate Freshman only.
b. Expected enrollment, approximately 400 students.
c. Buildings available:
a. Administration Building.
b. Library Building.
c. Combination Cafeteria/Band/Choral Building.
d. Physical Education/Locker- Shower Building (2 classrooms).
e. Classroom Building (15 classrooms /lecture /laboratories plus 2 Special
Education classrooms).
f. Covered Playcourt.
d. Administration, Library and classrooms air conditioned for eventual year round
operation.
Page 1
3. Keaau Hieh School (,second Incremcntl
a. In design phase.
b. One classroom building expected to be ready for occupancy, Fa112000. Total
facilities to accommodate Freshman and Sophomore classes.
c. One classroom and Gym expected to be ready for occupancy, Fa112001. Total
facilities to accommodate Freshman through Junior classes.
4. Keaau Hia1i School (Third Increment)
a. Design has not begun.
b. Facilities to accommodate Freshman through Senior classes in Fa112002.
Page 2
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L
BENJAMIN J. CAYET WO ESTNER VEDA
GOVERNOR ; ~ E%EGUTNE OFFICER
STATE OF HAWAII
DEPARTMENT OF BUSINESS, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & TOURISM
LAND USE COMMISSION
P.O. Box 2359
Honolulu, HI 96804-2359
Telephone: 808-587-3822
Fax: 808-587-3827 ~
November 17, 1998
%i
C-' ~ ~j
Ms. Virginia Goldstein •J
Planning Director
County of Hawaii -
25 Aupuni Street, Room 109
Hilo, Hawaii 96720-4252
•i
Dear Ms. Goldstein:
Subject: Application for State Land Use Boundary Amendment
Application (SLU 98-9) and Change of Zone (REZ
98-26) for Hawaii Electric Light Co., Inc., Keaau,
Puna Hawaii TMIt T-6-03. 93
We have reviewed the subject applications and Hawaii County
Environmental Report (ER) forwarded by your memorandum dated
November 6, 1998, and have the following comments:
1) We confirm that the Puna Generating Station located on
the subject parcel, as represented on the Site Map
(Figure One), is designated within the State Land Use
Agricultural District.
2) As noted in the ER, the Generating Station is east of
land owned by W.H. Shipman, Limited, which was
reclassified from the Agricultural District to the
Urban District for residential, industrial and
commercial uses, parks and opens space, schools, and
other government facilities, pursuant to Findings of
Fact, Conclusions of Law, and Decision and Order dated
July 18, 1994 (LUC Docket No. BR93-699/Office of State
Planning, State of Hawaii).
3) We note that the existing Generating Station is
currently under Special Permit No. 686 issued by the
Hawaii County Planning Commission. Clarification
should be provided as to the disposition of said permit
in the event the district boundary amendment request is
approved.
EXH13~T
®1.0~3t3
N.s. Virginia Goldstein
November 17, 1998
Page 2
4) We note that the list of the Commission's decision-
making criteria under §15-15-77, Hawaii Administrative
Rules, on page 18 of the ER does not include criterion
5 and 6 relating to the representations and commitments
made by a petitioner and lands in intensive
agricultural use, respectively.
We have no further comments to offer at this time. We
appreciate the opportunity to comment on the subject
applications.
Should you have any questions, please feel free to call me
or Bert Saruwatari of our office at 587-3822.
Sincerely,
ESTHER UEDA
Executive Officer
EU:th
01/08/99 18:17 Q808 941. 8225 AL LYHAN Ci31001
GRM NLL
1806 brA
BuiU 1t]0
CH2MHILL
C,t,lr.l7.j 'ca ,i ..1 ~ P(1 u 2II 1«1.o.s.s.,,a
~)',O r, Fa, IO/9s,dat6
. ,
1~~y6 1999 ~
- 137077.81.22
Ms. Virginia Goldstein, Planning Ulreetor
Planning Departsruatt County of Hawaii
25 Atrptmi Street
HIo, Hawaii 96720
Dear Ms. Goldstein:
Subject: state Laud use Boundary Amendment (SLU 98-9) Change of Zaate Application
(RF7 98-26). Tax Map Key 1-6-03:93, Appliia>?t: I3awaii filcctdc Light Coanpany,
lne.
This letter responds to comments 3 and 4 in the State Land Use Commission's comment
letter dated Novembcr 17,1998, signed by Ma Esther Ueda, Executive Officer. The
comment letter ooncemed Hawa[I Electric Light Company, lrtc.'s (13ELC0) Slate Land Use
Botmdary Astendmettt (SLU 98-9) Change of Zone Application (RfiZ 98-26) foz TMK 1-!r
03:93:
Comment 3 states:
"We note ttlat the e,dsting Generating Station is cuaently tinder Spedal Permit
No. 686 issued by the Hawaii Coonty Planning Coarm~ission. Clarification should
be provided as to the disposition of said permit in the evcnt the district boundary
amerldauttt request is approved."
A telephone ppnversation with Plerming Departa,ent staff indicated flat Spedal Permit No.
686 would be nullified concun,:nt with an approval of the State Land Uae Boundary
Anla,dalent (SLU 98A) and the Change auf 7.arte Application (RBZ 98-26), and that this may
be a condition of approval for the two applications.
Comatent 4 states
"We note that the list of the Cotrwniaslon's deelaian-making uiteria under Section
15-15-77, Hawaii Adminislta8ve Rttles (HAR], an. page 18 of the ER [Hawaii County
Environaie„tal Report for HfiLCO Pima Generating Station, papered October 21,
1998) does not include critt'rion 5 and 6 relating to the representations and
commitments made by a petltianer and lands in intensive A~
~,1++,*At use,
respectively."
Of~t~~_S3
01/08/99 18:17 '8'808 9d1 8226 AL LYNAN ®002
Ms. Virginia Goldstein, Plannurg Director
Plarmittg Departatar?t cormty of Hawaii
January 6,1999
Page 2
A telephone conversation with Plamting Department staff indicated that HAR Sectiaat 15-
16-77 (5) is applicable. The followatg atmm~arizes finx Section 15-15-TJ
5. The reprions artd ~ made by tlrepetitionerin aecumrga boundmy
dtange, irrdvd6rga
faa&rrgth~iloepstidiorrerhaa tl?e rrspesearyeoatoneicafaTily to carry
art tiro reprrsmtatiotts snd oxm~dnents related to iltepropaand use ordmdopment...
It is undecatood that oonsidesation will be given to the repreeentatiaos and rnmnutmeats
made by HELLO. With regard to HBI,CO's ecaetoanie capabilities, rue provide the
following 8tformstian:
1. HELLO, a regulated monopoly that was originally granted a franchise for the
island of Hawaiiby the Republic of Hawaii in 1894, is a stbsidiary of Hawaiian
17echic Ca~mpany, Inc. (fIECO). As a subsidiary.. HELLO has aoce~ to
sufficient eaoeroaric resources required to dovelop the pmjtcb it undertakes.
2. HELCO's capiml expenditures are subject to reguiatimr by the state of Hawaii,
Public utilities Contarisaiort. Capital expendihttes authorized by the Public
Utilities Cnmm+'~+~ to be added to HELCO's rate base may be recaptured
through the electricity rab~ paid to HELLO.
3. HELLO has concluded that the Puna Gertesating Station meets internal
econcmnic feaarbility mteria.
4. I-ffiLCO has the ability to raise both equity and debt capital to its capital
pmfects and has demonstrated this over many yeas.
HAR Section 15-15-T! (6) stales:
6. lands do inLamioee agricukrovd tae
for tmo years prior to [date cf
fihuSofa
petition or /mrds mi~kahtglt a~tyfor faberas~eagrdculirva[ useshop trot 6e tal¢a out
of theagriculhaol distrikt unless the aonrnri%iore fords eitiw that the action:
(ill Writ rat substantially fiegrarr actual orpctartial Ggriculhrnal produdiar in the oicirrity of
thtsub/at property or in themtorty a• Stott ar
(8J !s reasonably rrccessay
for urbra graoth. .
Based on the following, HAR Seeticn 15-15-77 (6) is rnncluded to not be applicable to the
requested change in land use diat:ict designation
I. As stated on page 17 of the ER, "17te tine of the site for geturatiort and dtstrabuticn
of electricity does root slgr+ls~iy diardxrish the available supply of land used for
agrinilttual adfvitles, norwill it have arty adverse impact on the rta~aining adjacent
agricultural uses."
2. As staged on page 21 of the 11t, "ll~e reclassi~aNon of the ~ to the Urban district
will not entail the removal of agdculttnal land from active production." Sperfically,
01/06/99 18:18 '4'808 941 8225 AL LYHAN ~ 005
Ma. Virguiia Coldateity Planning Director
Planning Departmeett County of Hawaii
J~~'y 6,1999
Page 3
the site has notbeen actively cultivated for arty apps for at least two yeah and far an
indetennuute period of lime ai<?oe it was wed as a sugar rntII site.
_ 3. As stated on page 21 of the ER, "Consultation with the State Department of
Agriculture indicates tint the Agticulttlrel Lands of Importancr to the State of
Hawaii (AYJISF3) system does not have an ALLSH rating for the site ott map H~66,
acted January 1977."
4. AS indicated On pages 21 and 22 Of the ER, "CArlaniltatlOTWifh the State
Dapartmestt of Agriculture indicates that the Land Study Bureau Deta~7ed Land
Classification, Island of Hawaii ~loven>ber 1965, map 654) indioabes that the site
has a "[J" or urban use rating, reflecting the industrial vse of the area. Fonzur
sugaxrane luids surrounding the former Pnata adll sift have an overall
productive rating of "C" indicating fair productivity potentlal for most crops."
r
Slwuld you have any questions cpacerning this letter, please CAIl me by telephone at
(808) 9437135, extension 218.
Sincerely,
CH2M HIId., INC.
Al Lono Lyn
Senioz Project IVlanager
cc: ii4s. Es13+er Uedn, Executive OfFieer, State Land Use Commissiorn
W.H. SHIPMAN, LIMITED
KEAAU
HAWAII ISLAND
December 30, 1998
_
Ms. Virginia Goldstein
Planning Director
County of Hawaii - _ ,
25 Aupuni Street ~J
Hilo, Hawaii 96720
Dear Ms. Goldstein:
Re:?State Land Use Boundary Amendment Application (SLU 98-9)
Change of Zone Application (REZ 98-26), TMK 1-6-03:93
Applicant -Hawaii Electric Light Company, Inc. (HELLO)
W. H. Shipman, Limited owns property adjacent to the parcel HELLO is
seeking to rezone. The road access to the parcel is covered by an easement
over W. H. Shipman, Limited's property.
We support the two applications at hand. Besides being a good neighbor,
HELCO's generation facilities aze in conformance with our plans to
develop this area.
Should you have any questions, feel free to call me at 966-9325.
Sincerely,
Robert E. Saunders
President
EXHIBIT
O4~+3f~~_~
P.O. Box 950 "A ICamaaina Company Contributing to the Planned Grosuth of Hawaii" Phone: (808) 966.9325
Established 1923 Fax: (808)966-8522
k:eaau, Hawaii 96749