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Longroad Energy updates Waipahu board on 620‑acre Mahi Solar project and agrivoltaics plan
Summary
Longroad Energy told the Waipahu Neighborhood Board that the Mahi Solar project in Kunia would cover about 620 acres (roughly 500 acres of panels), produce about 120 MW with 4‑hour batteries, power approximately 40,000 homes, and pursue agrivoltaics with leased plots for farmers and research partnerships.
Wren Westcoat of Longroad Energy presented an extensive update on the Mahi Solar project proposed for Kunia, describing its size, construction timeline, community engagement and agrivoltaics plans.
Westcoat said the project covers "about, 620 acres total" with roughly 500 acres of solar panels. He described the capacity as 120 megawatts of generation with battery storage sized for four hours of discharge; he said Longroad expects to sell power to Hawaiian Electric at a wholesale rate of 17.5 cents per kilowatt‑hour. Westcoat also said the project is designed to generate enough energy for about 40,000 homes and will include batteries to discharge power at night.
The presenter discussed agrivoltaic plans to lease portions of the site to local farmers (one 45‑acre hydroponic lettuce lease was noted), and a research collaboration with the Hawaii Ag Research Center to study crops that grow under or between panels. Westcoat said most permits are secured but the project requires a special use permit from the State Land Use Commission and building permits prior to construction; the team hopes to complete permitting and build in 2026–2027 with operation thereafter.
Board members asked about parceling, ag infrastructure and water; Westcoat said parcels are spread across the area, water-sharing arrangements with Kunia Water Association will help subsidize water costs for farmers, and the company plans fencing, roads and security during operations. Construction traffic (about 18 months) and roughly 200 construction jobs were discussed; operating staffing would be minimal.
