BlueEarth BioFuels have made significant announcements regarding the environmental impact statement for the biodiesel refinery positioned at Waena. President of BlueEarth, Landis Maez stated that. “We want the community to feel as good as we do about the plans for our renewable biofuels processing plant on Maui.”
During a public meeting, critics of palm oil were trying to get BlueEarth for making commitment for EIS. But, there is some difference in opinions. For Instance, half owner, Robbie Alm said for EIS, “if required”. On the other hand, Rob Parson of Maui branch and Lance Holter of Maui Tomorrow were extremely delighted on this news.
Lance Holter stated that, “This is exactly what they should do. It is a good business plan that sets a strategy for a positive impact for the state by voluntarily participating,” he further added, “This is the right way to do business in Hawaii.”
But, executive director of Life of land, Henry Curtis was a little cautious. Curtis also stated that there is no such thing as voluntary EIS. As law does not mandate EIS, so nobody was sure regarding its acceptance.
Maez also stated that EIS will be prepared like any other EIS in accordance with the lae. Consultant preparing this EIS will be Planning Solutions Inc. Curtis stated that, “I’m perplexed why they would call it voluntary.” He also added, “I hope the EIS will be full disclosure.”
Maui Electric Co.’s manager of operations shows complete support to BlueEarth, but was not ready to get involved in EIS. MECO plays major role in the project, as it is owning 60 acre of Waena generating system.
Another controversial decision of BlueEarth is to utilize oil from the crop grown for fuel. In order to ensure that palm oil is coming from sustainable sources, Blue Earth has queried Natural Resources Defense Council.
Earlier, it has been expected that BlueEarth refinery with the capacity of 40 million gallons will be opened by the year 2009. by the year 2011, it will be expanded to produce 120 million gallon.
On the other hand, HECO’s three units will be undoubtedly largest consumers of bio-diesel across the country. HECO is the parent of MECO. Maez said, “Although we believe the extensive review already conducted demonstrates that the kind of facility we are building is safe and environmentally sound, a voluntary EIS will further provide our community with the means of learning the real facts about the project, assure a forum to have an effective dialogue and provide important feedback to ensure this project is done the right way.”
via:mauinews
