Hilo meeting draws broad opposition to proposed geothermal development as consultant pitches "community-led" model

A Hawaii County committee hearing in the Hilo Council Chambers drew lengthy public testimony opposing proposed geothermal development on the island and a presentation from a consultant for a developer group that framed geothermal as a locally controlled source of firm renewable power.

Public testimony, delivered in person and by Zoom during the Communication 3-5-4 agenda item, emphasized cultural and health harms attendees said were associated with past geothermal operations and raised questions about oversight and conflicts of interest. Following the speakers, Bridal Lee, a contractor presenting on behalf of Waika (WICA/IDG), summarized a multi-stage development roadmap and called geothermal "an indigenous, firm baseload renewable" that could create local jobs and royalties.

Why it matters: The discussion pits advocates who say geothermal could lower Hawaii's high electricity costs and provide long-term jobs against residents and culture practitioners who say past geothermal operations caused illness, environmental damage and cultural desecration and who question whether state and county regulators can provide adequate oversight.

Speakers and main claims

- Tara Kiai, testifier: urged council opposition, saying geothermal development has produced permanent environmental and cultural harms in other places and alleging conflicts of interest tied to consulting contracts. Kiai said Waikau Consulting (doing business as Power for the People) received more than $1,000,000 from a…