Molokai Anti-Wind Group Forms

I Aloha Molokai (IAM) News Release

The acronym IAM represents “I Aloha Molokai,” a newly formed working group comprised of Molokai residents opposed to the proposal to develop a 200 megawatt industrial scale wind power plant to serve the energy needs of Oahu. IAM’s mission is to share information, as well as educate the general public to the potential impacts of the project. This is a grassroots effort to raise awareness and provide balance as the developer and proponents of the project move forward in their attempt to persuade the island community to support the project.

IAM is fortunate and pleased to announce that on June 2 at 6 p.m. at the Kulana `Oiwi Halau, Robin Kaye from Friends of Lanai (FOL) will be sharing the “Lanai Wind Fall Out” video and their experience with the Big Wind and undersea cable project. IAM invites the public to join us to talk story and learn how others are proactively engaged in mitigating efforts to challenge the Big Wind and Undersea Cable project.

Numerous testimonies, letters printed in the local paper and a recent voting survey reveal major concerns and opposition to the proposed project. IAM stands firm on the position that the cultural, social, economic and environmental impacts far outweigh the benefits and opportunities of the project. “NO DEAL” is worth sacrificing our integrity and island for.

IAM is not against renewable energy or the state’s mandate to reduce Hawaii’s dependence on fossil fuel. We support having a fair process that will allow the community to influence the direction and outcome of the project and seek collectively other options and solutions that may help Molokai as well as Hawaii become less dependent on the importation of fossil fuels.

IAM hopes to emerge as a coordinated and unified voice representative of Molokai’s position on the project. This would also include opportunities to build relationships and alliances with others in as well as outside of Molokai that share similar concerns. IAM’s intent is to keep the community informed on the group’s activities and progress. We encourage all who are apprehensive about the project to join our efforts as well. For more information or questions please contact (808) 336-1061.

Mahalo from IAM founders, Halona Kaopuiki, Mike and Peggy Bond, Kanohowailuku Helm, and Cora Schnackenberg.