Hale Kipa extends its sincere mahalo to Plus Power for its generous monetary contribution in support of our mission to serve Hawaiʻi’s youth, young adults, and families. Their investment reflects a shared commitment to building stronger, more resilient communities, extending beyond clean energy to the well-being of the people who call Hawaiʻi home.
Since December 2023, Plus Power has operated the Kapolei Energy Storage (KES) facility in West Oʻahu, one of the nation’s most advanced standalone battery energy storage systems. Occupying approximately eight acres, the facility provides 185 megawatts / 565 megawatt-hours of energy storage through 158 Tesla Megapack 2 XL lithium iron phosphate batteries. Designed to strengthen Oʻahu’s electrical grid, KES provides Hawaiian Electric with critical services, including load shifting, fast-frequency response, and enhanced grid reliability and resiliency.
The facility plays a vital role in balancing Oʻahu’s electric system by storing excess solar and renewable energy generated during the day and releasing it during the evening, when demand is highest. Its ability to respond instantly to sudden changes in electricity supply helps maintain grid stability, while its black-start capability can assist in restarting Oʻahu’s electrical grid following a major outage. The project was developed to replace the island’s coal-fired power plant, helping eliminate approximately 1.5 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually while supporting Hawaiʻi’s goal of generating 100 percent renewable electricity by December 31, 2045.
For organizations like Hale Kipa, reliable and resilient energy infrastructure has real-world significance.
Our 4.26-acre ʻEwa Beach campus, one of several Hale Kipa facilities across the Hawaiian Islands, serves as our administrative headquarters, education center, service hub, and home to residential shelters that operate 24 hours a day. Young people experiencing homelessness, abuse, neglect, or family crisis depend on these services every day. Any interruption to power can directly affect the safety, stability, and care provided to the youth entrusted to us.
Plus Power’s leadership in advancing clean, dependable energy complements Hale Kipa’s commitment to creating resilient communities. Their support not only strengthens our ability to serve vulnerable youth today, but also contributes to a more sustainable Hawaiʻi for future generations.
As Hawaiʻi continues its transition toward renewable energy, innovative companies like Plus Power are demonstrating that investments in clean infrastructure can also create meaningful opportunities for community partnerships. Through initiatives that support nonprofits focused on youth development, education, environmental stewardship, workforce development, and climate resilience, Plus Power is helping organizations like Hale Kipa continue their essential work while building a stronger, more sustainable future.
Mahalo, Plus Power, for believing in Hale Kipa’s mission and for investing in both Hawaiʻi’s energy future and its young people. Together, we are helping create safer, stronger, and more resilient communities for generations to come. ♥
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Photo (left to right): Jon Yoshimura, Local Government Affairs and Renewable Energy Consultant, Plus Power, Venus Kauʻiokawēkiu Rosete-Medeiros, Chief Executive Officer, Hale Kipa, Polly Shaw, Chief External Relations Officer, Plus Power, Laura Brucia Hamm, Chief Quality Improvement Officer, Hale Kipa.
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