Hawaiian Homes Commission backs geothermal exploration plan, seeks early‑stage funding and beneficiary outreach

The Hawaiian Homes Commission voted March 16 to move forward with a staged program of geothermal exploration on Hawaiian home lands, approving departmental steps to pursue early‑stage funding and begin beneficiary outreach.

Russell Kubu, representing the Chair’s office and the geothermal PIG, delivered an extended briefing that traced prior studies (Don Thomas and UH work), summarized maps showing geothermal probability on multiple islands, and described a phased approach: reconnaissance geophysics, slim‑hole exploration drilling, and — for selected sites — production wells and power plant development. Kubu stressed the department’s intent to pursue public‑private partnerships while retaining control over trust lands and cultural stewardship.

Kubu presented estimated costs: roughly $4–5 million for broad early exploration across candidate sites; $40–50 million for a bundle of slim‑hole exploratory drills if multiple sites advance; and hundreds of millions per production site for full commercial development. He said early exploratory work to be funded would be targeted and that the department is pursuing state and federal appropriations, including an earmark awarded for Hawaii Island work. He called the work “derisking” — gathering the science that investors require before committing capital.

Commissioners probed environmental, cultural, legal and financial implications. Several testified from homestead communities, urging that local benefits be guaranteed and that the department proceed only with robust beneficiary consultation. Commissioner questions focused on permitting, timing for any payments or revenues, and the department’s plan to preserve beneficiary interests. Kubu described a proposed governance model (a DHHL development vehicle or “DevCo” in joint ventures) intended to allow DHHL to be the leading public participant while attracting private financing for capital‑intensive later stages.

The commission authorized staff to pursue the recommended steps, including outreach meetings on each island to explain technical findings, cultural considerations and potential benefits, and to request funding needed for early exploration phases. Chair Watson and other commissioners emphasized that community benefits and clear consultation will be required before moving into production drilling or any site‑specific disposition.

What’s next: DHHL will hold beneficiary briefings and continue coordination with the legislature and federal partners on funding; the department said it will return to the commission before entering site‑specific production phases.