Hawaii Renewable Fuels Coalition, a multi-sector advocacy group that supports the state’s energy landscape, announced Nahelani Parsons as its executive director on Wednesday.
According to the announcement, Parsons, a Windward Oahu resident, brings to the role experience "in coalition building, association management, and county, state and federal legislation, with a focus on public affairs, policy and advocacy."
“Renewable energy is rapidly evolving, and Hawaii is at an exciting place in its renewable energy journey. Not long ago, this technology was science fiction, but today there are real possibilities that offer us viable, sustainable energy options,” Parsons said in a statement.
Parsons said she will advocate for the support needed to produce renewable fuels in Hawaii as the state moves closer to its goal of being 100% renewable energy dependent by 2045.
"It takes immediate action now to get us towards the 2045 state energy goal. We cannot wait any longer and we are excited to be taking action towards that goal today with more organizations joining this effort," said Parsons.
In the announcement, Hawaii Renewable Fuels Coalition lists three key developments that it's focused on. This includes Par Hawaii’s $90 million investment to produce 1.4 million barrels of sustainable aviation fuel at Par Hawaii Refining; crop trials of camelina by Pono Pacific Land Management LLC; and commitments by local companies to replace part of their usage of fuel for road vehicles, air travel and power production with more renewable fuels.
The founding members of Hawaii Renewable Fuels Coalition are Par Hawaii, Hawaiian Airlines and Pono Pacific. It is represented by a total of 12 member organizations to date.
