Land Use Commission approves Kaawanui solar special permit with conditions

The Land Use Commission unanimously approved a special permit for the Kaawanui (Kaavanui) solar and battery project on May 13, 2026, authorizing use of approximately 269.195 acres in Makaweli/Waimea, Kauai, subject to the County of Kauai’s conditions plus three amendments suggested by LUC staff. Commissioner Ken Hayashida made the motion to approve and Commissioner Mel Kahele seconded; the roll‑call vote recorded ayes from Hayashida, Kahele, Vice Chair Nancy Carr Smith, Commissioner Bruce Uu, Commissioner Miles Miyasato and Chair Brian Lee. Two commissioners (Kamake Ohalo and Yumane) were recorded absent.

The decision incorporates staff changes clarifying extensions and reporting requirements. As summarized by Executive Officer Daniel Oredinker, the staff suggested amendments (1) add Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity consultation language for certain extension requests, (2) require the applicant to begin commercial operations within four years of the LUC decision and make the special permit valid for 35 years from commercial operation (with LUC review required for later time‑extension requests), and (3) require notice to the County and the commission of any change in ownership, use, or license over the petition area. Chair Brian Lee said the motion passed in the form recommended in the staff report and asked the department of the attorney general to review the order.

The commission’s action follows presentations from the petitioner and parties, a staff recommendation that the record is sufficient to decide, and comments from the County of Kauai and the State Office of Planning and Sustainable Development (OPSD). The County confirmed construction activity can commence prior to the special permit taking effect at commercial operation, per county planning counsel. The final order will be executed subject to review by the Attorney General’s Office.