Hawaiian Electric awards GE Vernova contract to modernize Waiau Power Plant with six aeroderivative gas turbines
Type: Supply Agreement · Technology: Gas · Country: United States · Capacity: 250 MW · Announced: 2026-08-07
Hawaiian Electric, known as HECO, awarded GE Vernova a contract to supply six LM6000VELOX aeroderivative gas turbine packages for the modernization of the Waiau Power Plant in Pearl City, Oahu. The project will add over 250 MW of firm power to Oahu's isolated grid, with the first two units scheduled to reach commercial operation in 2029 and the remaining units following in subsequent stages. The new turbines, derived from aircraft jet engine technology, can achieve full load in under 10 minutes, addressing the grid's need for rapid-response power to complement variable renewable energy sources like solar and wind. The modernization aims to retire aging 58-to-67-year-old oil-fired steam units, reducing emissions per megawatt-hour even before fuel source shifts are implemented. By reusing existing infrastructure within the Waiau plant footprint, the project minimizes cost and community disruption while supporting Hawaii's emissions reduction goals.
Counterparties
- Hawaiian Electric (Offtaker)
- GE Vernova (Supplier)
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