Energy merger intervenors given more time to testify

Alternative energy proponents can continue providing testimony in the ongoing Public Utilities Commission docket on the proposed $4.3 billion acquisition of Hawaii’s electric utilities.

In an order issued last week, the PUC responded to requests by NextEra Energy and the Hawaiian Electric Co. to limit testimony at a scheduled Nov. 30 evidentiary hearing by Hawaii Island Electric Cooperative, Hawaii Gas, the County of Maui and other intervenors that have pushed for consideration of alternatives to the merger.

The PUC granted the companies’ request in part, agreeing that testimony would be limited to the issues previously identified as pertaining to the review of the merger. However, the commissioners also disagreed with the applicants’ assertions that testimony about alternatives to the merger did not fall within that scope.

“The commission granted HIEC intervenor status based in part on how HIEC’s stated interests may be affected if the commission approves the proposed transaction,” the order, dated Oct. 30, reads. “Such stated interests include: (A) ‘exploring the potential merits of a cooperative ownership structure for electric utility service’ on the island of Hawaii; (B) ‘consideration of the cooperative model for electric utility service on Hawaii island;’ and (C) ‘HIEC as a potential member-owned, net for profit electric utility serving the island of Hawaii,’ whether the proposed transaction is approved or denied.”

In response to the decision, HIEC spokesman Marco Mangelsdorf said he was “pleased that the commission continues to recognize the relevance of this discussion and look forward to actively participating at the evidentiary hearings later this month. The energy and enthusiasm of numerous HIEC supporters at the PUC’s listening sessions on our island in September demonstrate the potential to do incredible things here if given the opportunity.”

Email Colin M. Stewart at cstewart@hawaiitribune-herald.com.