Allan Farwell, general manager of the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, said, “About a year ago at this same spot, we celebrated our LEED EBOM Certification, and now we have the privilege to announce another sustainability advancement: our newly installed photovoltaic system.”

KAANAPALI – The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa last week celebrated the installation of one of the largest rooftop photovoltaic systems in Hawaii.

On Tuesday, Feb. 23, the resort held a “Power Up Dedication” reception to mark the installation of the solar system and to recognize the partners that helped achieve the sustainable initiative.

This system of solar panels produces more than 6 percent of the resort’s annual electricity needs, which is equal to supplying grid electricity to 158 homes.

The use of solar power reduces CO2 emissions by offsetting diesel generation, one of the dirtiest methods of electricity. The amount of CO2 emissions that has been reduced is the equivalent of removing 111 passenger cars driven in one year.

“Our efforts here at the Hyatt Regency Maui have created greater awareness of environmental sustainability among the community and our resort guests,” said Gary Bulson, senior engineer.

Pictured at the “Power Up Dedication” are (from left): Gary Bulson, director of engineering at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa; Mike Sejman, corporate director of engineering and sustainability, Hyatt Hotels Corporation; Maui County Mayor Alan Arakawa; Rick Werber, senior vice president of engineering and sustainability, Host Hotels and Resorts; Hyatt Regency Maui General Manager Allan Farwell; and Jeff Bedard, managing partner of Resort Energy Ventures.

“We are currently in the process of introducing a sustainability tour around our property that will increase awareness of the different areas that we are making environmental advancements, including water efficiency, ocean and reef protection, minimizing food waste, recycling, solar energy, air quality and green cleaning.”

The Hyatt Regency Maui’s sustainability initiatives are led by Bulson and the resort’s own Green Team, a group of employees involved in sustainability initiatives.

This photovoltaic system installation project was implemented in partnership with Hyatt Hotels Corporation, Host Hotels and Resorts, Maui Electric Company, Resort Energy Ventures as the designer and project manager, and HNU Energy as the contractor.

In 2014, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa became Hawaii’s first LEED EBOM Silver resort after completing significant sustainability upgrades.

Hyatt Regency Maui embraces Hyatt Thrive, a long-term strategic approach to environmental sustainability built on three focus areas: use resources thoughtfully, build smart, and innovate and inspire.