Sempra will construct the plant at the Ulupalakua Ranch in southeastern Maui.
The plant is expected to generate emission-free electricity, sufficient to power about 10,000 households in Maui.
The Auwahi Wind will feature a battery storage unit capable of storing electricity generated by its turbines during the windy morning and night hours and ensure smooth supply of power.
The energy stored in these batteries will help to regulate and smooth intermittent wind power, providing a valuable source of grid stability for Maui Electric.
Construction of the project is expected to start in early 2012, subject to the receipt of all approvals, and is expected to take about one year to complete.
