KIUC named ‘Electric Cooperative of the Year’ by national nonprofit

LIHU‘E — The Kaua‘i Island Utility Cooperative was one of eight electric utilities recognized as “Power Players of the Year” by the Smart Electric Power Alliance.

KIUC earned its award in the category of Electric Cooperative of the Year for demonstrating industry leadership through unique innovation in an effort to significantly accelerate the transformation to a clean and modern energy system.

“This year’s Power Players Award winners showcase innovative projects, partnerships, individuals and ideas transforming our industry,” SEPA President and CEO Julia Hamm said. “This innovation and leadership is more necessary now than ever.”

SEPA is a nonprofit organization that helps address the most-pressing issues encountered in the smart transition to a carbon-free energy system by 2050, by providing education, research, standards and collaboration around a clean and modern energy future.

In its award announcement, SEPA said that “KIUC is unique in the world in achieving 100% renewable on nearly a daily basis.”

SEPA noted that “KIUC’s transition to renewables has resulted in more stable and lower rates, as members are increasingly buffered from the financial impacts of volatile oil pricing and benefit from a majority of their power being supplied via long-term, power-purchase agreements that are competitively or lower-priced compared to fossil fuel.”

“We’re proud to receive this national recognition and will continue to focus on innovation as we forge our path to 100% renewable,” KIUC President and Chief Executive Officer David Bissell said.

The eight winners were selected from a record-breaking competitive field of over 100 nominees and recently announced finalists.