2003

Gateway Opens, Horizons Expand

View The 2003 Annual Report >>

In 2003, NELHA celebrated the dedication of the Distributed Energy Resources Center, a milestone supported by Senator Daniel K. Inouye and Governor Linda Lingle. The first phase of the Gateway Visitor Center opened, laying the foundation for a future hub of education, energy, and ocean science.

HOST Park tenants thrived: Cyanotech launched BioAstin® into global markets; Big Island Abalone harvested more than 100 tons annually; Moana Technologies completed its shrimp genetics facilities. Research into ocean-based food, health, and energy applications expanded, while Friends of NELHA reached thousands of visitors through growing tour programs. With more than $25 million in tenant revenues and new federal and state support, 2003 marked both growth and momentum for NELHA’s vision.

Highlights:

  • Dedication of NELHA’s Distributed Energy Resources (DER) Center held August 22 with Senator Daniel K. Inouye, Governor Linda Lingle, and federal, state, and local officials.
  • Completion of NELHA Gateway Visitor Center first phase; planning advanced for exhibits and public education programs.
  • OTEC demonstration project revived with new studies on closed-cycle systems.
  • Research on deep ocean water uses expanded, including aquaculture, agriculture, and functional foods.
  • Tenants generated over $25 million in annual revenues, supporting 200+ jobs.
  • Cyanotech introduced new astaxanthin product BioAstin® to global markets.
  • Big Island Abalone Corporation harvested 100 tons of abalone annually, serving domestic and international customers.
  • Moana Technologies completed facilities for shrimp genetics program.
  • Friends of NELHA expanded education tours, reaching 5,000+ visitors in the year.
  • Federal and state funding secured for additional Gateway facilities and energy research.

‍

<< Back to NELHA Through the Years