EPA Tells Hawaii: Not So Fast on Those Power Plant Shutdowns
Published Date: 5/29/2026
Rule
Summary
The EPA gave Hawaii a thumbs-up on some parts of its plan to clear up regional haze but said no to others, especially the plan to shut down certain power plants on Hawaii and Maui. This means Hawaii must tweak its long-term strategy to better protect the air and visibility in special natural areas. The new rules kick in on June 29, 2026, and could affect local energy and environmental efforts.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Planned Plant Shutdowns Not Approved
The EPA disapproved Hawaii's long-term strategy that included enforceable shutdown deadlines for six boiler units at the Kanoelehua-Hill and Kahului Generating Stations (islands of Hawaii and Maui) and optional shutdowns at the Maalaea Generating Station. Hawaiian Electric withdrew consent for these closures (letter dated August 29, 2025), and EPA found Hawaii did not provide the necessary assurances against unlawful takings, so those enforceable shutdowns are not approved into the SIP.
Federal Plan or Revised SIP Required
Because EPA disapproved portions of Hawaii's 2024 regional haze plan (including the long-term strategy, reasonable progress goals, and certain Federal Land Manager consultation elements), EPA says a Federal Implementation Plan (FIP) or an approved SIP revision will be required to satisfy those outstanding regional haze rule requirements. The partial approval/partial disapproval action is final and effective June 29, 2026.
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