Groundbreaking Success: From Site to Power Generation

NELH secured permits, rezoning, and nonprofit incorporation to formalize its operations as a research center. The U.S. Department of Energy approved RCUH’s proposal for an OTEC test facility, and the Seacoast Test Facility was founded near Keahole Point. A groundbreaking ceremony was held on January 12, 1979, and by year’s end access roads, utilities, and water supply systems were in place. The Mini-OTEC project demonstrated net power generation, marking a milestone. By 1980, NELH hosted numerous projects, including surveys of bathymetry, currents, and phytoplankton, as it grew into a hub for marine and energy research.

Highlights:

• NELH formalizes legal status and obtains necessary permits and rezoning to develop a research center. A Master Developmental Plan is drawn up and submitted
• RCUH proposal for funding OTEC test facility accepted by US Department of Energy
• Seacoast Test Facility project founded on five acres near Keahole Point
• Groundbreaking at NELH site at Keahole Point on January 12, 1979
• Mini-OTEC project begins, generates net energy
• Access road construction, site improvement, and utility expansion, including a fresh water supply line, are completed December 1979
• NELH incorporated as a nonprofit corporation in 1980
• By 1980, multiple projects and site studies are underway, including bathymetry surveys, land surveys, phytoplankton monitoring, and bottom current surveys