The term “off the grid” usually refers to people who choose to isolate themselves from society. But for Holu Energy, getting off the main grid isn’t about retreating from society — it’s about helping it to be more energy efficient and connected. “We aspire to be the preeminent energy development company in the Pacific region,” says Ted Peck, the CEO and lead developer at Holu Energy. “We currently have a focus on microgrids powered by solar.”
Microgrids are smaller power grids within a community, such as a neighborhood or a university, that exist to serve the specific needs of that smaller area. Because they have a narrower focus, micro-grids are often more reliable, more efficient, and more affordable for consumers. Holu Energy is a leader in microgrid development both in Hawaii and in the entire Pacific region. The company is currently working to spread awareness of micro-grids, and to make them a leading source of energy for Hawaiians.
“We are in the process of placing into service two micro-grids we have completed with our technology partner,” Peck says. “They are the first commercial integrated solar and storage projects on the grid in Hawaii. In the months ahead, as we put them through their paces, we expect to be able to demonstrate a wide range of capabilities that will benefit people in Hawaii and beyond.” Holu Energy is a partner of EnSync Energy Systems, whose website describes it in the following way: “EnSync Energy Systems is enabling the future of electricity with advanced energy management systems critical to a global economy becoming increasingly reliant upon the expansion of renewable energy.”
Before founding Holu Energy, Peck served as the energy administrator of Hawaii and helped to develop the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative. The desire to end Hawaii’s dependence on fossil fuel inspired him to start the company in 2010. Peck says that collaboration is key to what Holu Energy does, meaning that he and his colleagues are right at home in the Real Office Centres (ROC) Honolulu office. “Our team thoroughly enjoys our work environment,” he says. “We have a wide range of clients and partners that come and collaborate with us, and the ROC culture promotes and enables rich and open collaboration.”