Unlike any other state, imported oil is the single thread that can completely unravel Hawaii's future. All these resources have the potential to help produce energy and reduce our dependence on imported petroleum. Hawaii is determined to explore the best ways to take advantage of its renewable energy resources. Each renewable resource helps curb global warming by reducing air pollution. Every barrel of oil or ton of coal replaced with these renewable resources will reduce the amount of carbon dioxide put into the atmosphere.
Carbon dioxide is considered by many as one of the major contributors to global warming.
The State of Hawaii is actively supporting the development of a mix of renewable energy resources including solar power, biomass, hydropower, wind power, geothermal energy, and ocean thermal energy conversion. Solar thermal energy is heat energy obtained by exposing a collecting device to the rays of the sun. A solar thermal system makes use of the warmth absorbed by the collector to heat water or another working fluid, or to make steam. Hot water is used in homes or commercial buildings and for industrial processes. Steam is used for process heat or for operating a turbine generator to produce electricity or industrial power.