The WKEP is an integrated renewable energy and irrigation project which will help the state of Hawaii reach its goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045.
Through an agreement between the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) and a US utility and power generation company, the WKEP will utilize state land and water for renewable energy production via hydroelectric and solar photovoltaic (PV) generation, pumped hydroelectric and battery storage, and irrigation delivery to support diversified agriculture.
Flowserve vertical turbine pumps will enable the sophisticated engineering design of the hydropower and pumped storage components of the project. The project is expected to equip Kauai with 25% of its electricity needs. Specifically, the pumped hydropower will provide twelve hours of daily storage – a significant improvement to the standard storage from existing solar battery facilities which provide up to only five hours. This extended duration will allow the island to run on 100% renewable energy for longer periods of time without requiring sunlight.
“We are excited to be a part of this meaningful project. Through our purpose to make the world better for everyone, we are well positioned to support Hawaii’s ambitious goals on the path to zero emissions,” said Tamara Morytko, president of Flowserve’s pumps division. “As we look to expand in low-carbon markets through the energy transition, Flowserve’s role in the WKEP is deeply aligned with our 3D growth strategy to diversify, decarbonize and digitize.”
