HOST Park's Legacy of Innovation and Sustainability

Delve into the inspiring story of HOST Park, where each chapter unfolds groundbreaking strides in technology and eco-friendly practices. Our journey reflects a commitment to pioneering sustainable solutions and fostering a community of innovation. Discover how HOST Park has become a landmark of progress and a beacon for future endeavors, impacting both Hawaiʻi and the global scale.

NELHA Through the Years

HOST Park’s growth, drawn from annual reports spanning 1972 to today.

1978-1980 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.

1976-1977 Building Roads, Power Lines, and Research Capacity

The Environmental Assessment and Phase I Master Plan for NELH were approved, and the Legislature authorized $750,000 for capital improvements. NELH-related studies multiplied, supported by a growing research community. In November, a seaward Ocean Research and Baseline Data Collection Area was established, and the Environmental Impact Statement for development was approved the following month. NELH began to take physical shape, with interim facilities including a diesel power plant, small office, and monitoring lab. The State approved $750,000 for infrastructure such as a surfaced access road, water supply, sewage facilities, and a high-capacity power line. A bathymetric study was conducted offshore, mapping depths to 3,000 feet. Meanwhile, ocean research expanded into areas like benthic ecosystem surveys, mariculture, algal production, and biofouling and corrosion studies, supported by DOE and ERDA contracts.

1975 Ambitious OTEC Vision Takes Shape Under Craven's Leadership

Marine Affairs Coordinator John C. Craven outlined ambitious plans for NELH, including the first proposal for an Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) test facility. The Research Corporation of the University of Hawaiʻi (RCUH) was selected to provide management, and a six-person Board of Directors and three-person staff were appointed. Throughout the year, discussions with the federal Energy Research and Development Administration (ERDA) advanced, and by July an OTEC proposal with a $7.8 million budget request was submitted. Permits were also requested to install temporary power systems at Keahole Point.

1974 Birth of a Vision: Natural Energy Laboratory Founded

Governor George Ariyoshi introduced the vision for the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaiʻi (NELH), formally established on June 14 through Act 236. Planning funds were provided jointly by the State and the County of Hawaiʻi, with $100,000 released in July. Keahole Point was chosen as the site for its unique combination of cold deep ocean water, warm surface waters, strong solar radiation, accessibility, and available state-owned land. At the time, Kona had 3,000 hotel units and 6,000 residents. Management of the project fell under the State’s Marine Affairs Coordinator.

1987-1988 Coming of Age: 23,000 GPM Capacity and 80 Employees

NELH reached full operational maturity during 1987-88, highlighted by the installation of five major new pipelines delivering 23,000 gallons per minute and achieving complete redundancy in seawater supplies. Employment grew to 80 people, with 65 working in private sector projects as commercial operations expanded significantly. Cyanotech increased cultivation to 9 acres, Hawaiian Abalone Farm transformed into Ocean Farms of Hawaii with expanded species production, and new ventures like Japanese flounder farming and Maine lobster cultivation launched. OTEC research achieved a major milestone with the first production of potable freshwater from open-cycle experiments in August 1987. The visitor program hosted 3,500 people as media interest increased, while plans emerged for merging NELH and HOST Park operations to streamline Hawaii's ocean energy commercialization efforts.

1986 HOST Park Breaks Ground: Commercial Future Takes Shape

NELH reached a new stage of maturity with $16 million in total investment equally divided among state, federal, and private sources. The Legislature appropriated $1 million for a backup pipeline, and major renovations were completed at the water quality lab. Cyanotech expanded production of spirulina and beta carotene, while Hawaiian Abalone Farms began selling product locally. HOST Park development began with a groundbreaking in November. Despite storm damage to pipelines, research in aquaculture and OTEC biofouling control advanced, including designs for a new experimental apparatus. By year’s end, NELH supported 19 active projects at Keahole and seven more at Puna, with 45 people employed onsite. More than 2,800 visitors toured the facility as it grew into a world-class center for ocean-based energy and aquaculture research.

1985 Commercialization Delivered: First Harvest and Growing Operations

Major projects came online, including Cyanotech’s first commercial spirulina harvest and Hawaiian Abalone Farm’s construction of kelp ponds and deep-water pipelines. NELH also assumed management of the Puna Geothermal Facility. Plans advanced for the Hawaii Ocean Science and Technology (HOST) Park, designed to bridge research and commercialization. Experiments broadened to include giant clam culture, nori farming, and new biofouling countermeasures. Infrastructure improvements ranged from new cold-water pumps to a renovated water quality lab and an information kiosk. By mid-year, cold-water experiments had run continuously for over 1,150 days, and staff totaled 10.5.

1984 Commercialization Begins: From Research to Revenue

NELH entered a period of commercialization and growth. Hawaiian Abalone Farms broke ground on a 21-acre facility, while Cyanotech negotiated for a four-acre spirulina farm. Research expanded to include oysters, shrimp, marine algae, and strawberries grown using cold-water condensate. State law was amended to explicitly include commercialization in NELH’s mission. New facilities supported biofouling studies, while HIMB scientists advanced trout aquaculture. A PR officer was hired, an information kiosk was planned, and staff reached 9.5 positions. Jack P. Huizingh was appointed NELH’s first permanent executive director in October.

1983 Global Pioneer: Continuous Deep Water Operations

NELH’s staff grew to nine, and it emerged as the world’s only facility continuously supplying cold, deep seawater. By June, operations included warm and cold water systems, chemistry labs, vehicles, a VHF network, and environmental monitoring. Abalone, trout, nori, lobsters, and other aquaculture projects expanded, while OTEC-related biofouling and corrosion studies deepened. A DOE project began monitoring candidate materials for undersea power transmission cables, while the Alcoa Corrosion Project tested proprietary alloys. NELH also advanced renewable energy with the design of a solar salt pond system.

1982 Resilience and Innovation: Overcoming Funding Challenges

Despite an interruption of federal funding for the Seacoast Test Facility, NELH pressed forward. A Laboratory Director was appointed, and a mile-long, 12-inch cold-water pipe was successfully deployed, pumping 340 gallons per minute from 2,000 feet deep. Facilities expanded rapidly, supporting aquaculture research in fish, seaweeds, and mollusks, while chlorination proved highly effective against biofouling. Hurricane Iwa caused temporary setbacks but no catastrophic damage. Notable partnerships included NOAA- and Navy-supported deep-diving submersible surveys of the cold-water pipe system.

1981 Major Infrastructure Complete at NELH

The Seacoast Test Facility became fully operational, with major infrastructure including a cold-water pipe system, laboratory, test pad, and power center nearing completion. Full-time staff expanded to eight. Research focused on OTEC experiments, especially Argonne National Laboratory’s biofouling and corrosion projects. DOE also funded tests of undersea power cable materials. By the end of FY1981, NELH was managing a broad portfolio of projects supporting OTEC development, aquaculture studies, and site expansion.

1998-1999 A Biennial of Growth and Expansion

NELHA experienced remarkable growth with over 160 investor information packets distributed and multiple new tenants joining, including Marine BioProducts, Ocean Rider, and Stockly's Aquariums, while existing companies like Cyanotech launched BioAstin™ and Big Island Abalone tripled its facility. The Hawaii Legislature allocated $16 million in CIP funds for seawater system expansion, and NELHA built a new Booster Pump Station to support HOST Park's diversifying portfolio of ocean-based industries ranging from aquaculture to biotechnology. The biennium concluded with PICHTR's pioneering 210kW open-cycle OTEC project being dismantled after successful demonstration.

1997 Building Momentum Toward HOST Park Growth

NELHA experienced vigorous expansion with tenant employment jumping 30% to 174 people and gross revenues reaching $13.6 million, generating an overall economic impact of $43 million. The Authority welcomed nine new business starts and multiple tenant expansions, while CEROS relocated to NELHA and funded 16 projects totaling $5.5 million. Legislative support expanded NELHA's mandate to include ocean-related research and technology, positioning the facility for its next phase of growth.

1996 Transition, Tenacity, and Technology

Despite severe state budget cuts that reduced staff by one-third, NELHA expanded operations with three new tenants and major infrastructure upgrades, including pioneering micro-tunneling work for future HOST Park seawater pipelines. Product sales from NELHA-based companies exceeded $13 million with approximately 130 people employed, while internet connectivity brought the facility into the digital age.

1995 Transition and Tenacity

NELHA welcomed four new tenants and saw existing companies expand to over $5 million in sales with more than 100 employees, while international delegations from Okinawa and the Philippines sought to replicate the facility's cold seawater technologies. The Authority advanced ambitious infrastructure projects including pioneering microtunneling for 66-inch seawater pipelines and submersible surveys with PISCES V, positioning itself for future growth despite budget constraints.

1994 A Year of Reflection and Expansion

NELHA celebrated its 20th anniversary with new leadership under Executive Director Robert Kihune and began construction on twin 55-inch shoreline pipes for the HOST Park seawater system expansion. The Authority completed the award-nominated Hale He'ena Laboratory building and hosted over 3,000 visitors while maintaining continuous 24/7 seawater delivery and expanding international outreach.

1989-1990 Merging Forces: NELH and HOST Park Become NELHA

The period of 1989-90 marked a transformative conclusion to NELH's independent existence as commercial operations reached unprecedented scale. Employment at the Kona site grew to 143 people with 44 acres developed by the private sector, while eighteen new projects launched across both Keahole Point and Puna. Major commercial expansions included Cyanotech's full 15-acre development with BASF partnership for astaxanthin production, Royal Hawaiian Sea Farms distributing over a ton of algae weekly, and Ocean Farms of Hawaii adding four new seawater pipelines. OTEC research achieved breakthroughs in heat exchanger cost reduction through ALCAN testing, while new ventures explored everything from solar desalination to pearl cultivation. The era culminated on July 1, 1990, when NELH merged with HOST Park to create the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA), ending NELH's independent chapter while positioning the facility for continued growth as a unified ocean science and technology center.

2009 Innovation Amid Crisis

In the midst of the global financial downturn, NELHA demonstrated resilience and innovation. With only 16 staff—less than half of what it had in the mid-1990s—the organization supported 43 tenants while operating a seawater system twice as large as a decade earlier. Despite staffing challenges, including the loss of its fiscal clerk, NELHA kept vital systems running 24/7 to protect millions of dollars in tenant assets.The year marked important progress in renewable energy and science. Act 157 allowed NELHA to generate and distribute renewable power, setting the stage for solar and OTEC projects. Cellana advanced algae biofuels, while Continental Airlines flew a commercial jet partly fueled by Cyanotech-grown algae. Researchers from Makai Ocean Engineering began groundbreaking OTEC heat exchanger studies, and an international team led by Old Dominion, Georgia Tech, and Woods Hole used NELHA’s pipelines to isolate dissolved organic matter, advancing global climate research.

2008 Weathering Economic Storms, Anchoring New Science

The global financial crisis hit Hawai‘i hard in 2008, slowing investment across the state. At HOST Park, tenants and staff pressed on, adapting to challenges with resourcefulness. The year saw continued momentum in renewable energy and aquaculture even as operating budgets tightened. NELHA expanded its international profile by hosting delegations from around the world and welcomed new research partnerships that laid the groundwork for future breakthroughs.While deep seawater bottling slowed due to overproduction, aquaculture ventures like kampachi and abalone continued to strengthen Hawai‘i’s reputation as a hub for premium seafood. At the same time, energy projects in solar thermal, algae-based biofuels, and OTEC planning showed that NELHA’s founding mission in alternative energy was regaining force.

2007 Energy on the Horizon, Resilience in the Face of Challenge

In 2007, NELHA reached financial self-sufficiency for the first time, marking a major turning point after decades of growth. Even as energy costs rose sharply and two October 2006 earthquakes damaged deep seawater pipelines, the lab pressed forward with determination. Repair crews worked creatively to restore service, while leadership pursued bold plans for renewable energy—issuing RFPs for a 5 MW solar array and a 1 MW OTEC demonstration plant.Aquaculture remained vibrant, with abalone, kampachi, shrimp, and other ventures thriving. Meanwhile, new energy and biotechnology tenants—from algae-based biofuels to solar thermal projects—signaled a shift toward a diversified, sustainable future. CEROS continued to funnel Department of Defense funding into innovative ocean technology projects, adding to Hawai‘i’s reputation for cutting-edge research.

2006 Self-Reliance and a Return to Energy

2006 was the year NELHA stepped fully into financial self-reliance. For the first time since its founding, the laboratory received no general fund support from the State of Hawai‘i. To stabilize, NELHA restructured seawater rates, aligned land lease policies with market conditions, and reduced operating losses while tackling costly infrastructure upgrades.At the same time, the Park looked toward its next chapter. Foreign Trade Zone status opened new opportunities for tenants in global trade. International delegations—from Taiwan to Morocco—visited to study Hawai‘i’s model. Energy research returned to the forefront: NELHA signed an agreement with Ocean Engineering & Energy Systems to construct the world’s first commercial OTEC plant, while Sopogy, HR Petroleum, and the Hawai‘i Natural Energy Institute advanced solar, biofuel, and hydrogen projects. Even after the October earthquakes rattled Hawai‘i Island, operations continued almost without disruption, underscoring the Park’s resilience.

2005 Branding Deep Seawater, Renewing Energy Dreams

2005 marked a turning point for NELHA. The world’s deepest seawater pipeline came online, delivering 14,000 gallons per minute from 3,000 feet below. This infrastructure fueled both aquaculture and the rapidly expanding deep seawater bottling industry. Koyo USA scaled production to nearly a million bottles a day, joined by Deep Seawater International, Hawai‘i Deep Marine, and Enzamin USA. Together they tapped into the global fascination with Hawai‘i’s pristine ocean resource.At the same time, NELHA tightened financial policies, standardizing royalties and service mark protections to safeguard the “Hawaiian deep sea water” brand. Aquaculture remained strong, anchored by Big Island Abalone, Kona Bay Marine Resources, and Cyanotech, while new ventures in shrimp genetics, ornamental reef fish, and marine biotechnology broadened the Park’s profile. Energy also returned to the agenda with urgency. Rising oil costs renewed interest in solar, hydrogen, and Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC). Partnerships with the U.S. Department of Energy and New Mexico Tech promised a revival of NELHA’s founding mission to pioneer alternative energy for Hawai‘i and the world.

2004 From Aquaculture to Energy Innovation

In 2004, HOST Park stood at a crossroads of tradition and transformation. Aquaculture remained dominant, producing 70 percent of Hawaiʻi’s farmed seafood and nearly all of the island’s output. Big Island Abalone and Kona Bay Marine Resources earned Governor’s Export Awards, while Koyo USA pioneered bottling deep seawater for Japanese markets—launching an entirely new industry.At the same time, construction advanced on the Hawaiʻi Gateway Energy Center, designed as one of the world’s first LEED Platinum energy campuses. With seawater cooling, photovoltaic power, and zero-net energy goals, it signaled NELHA’s commitment to renewable innovation. By year’s end, tenant revenues topped $19 million, capital investments surged, and state funding began to phase out—pushing NELHA closer to financial independence.

2003 Gateway Opens, Horizons Expand

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.

2002 The Year of the Pipeline

After twelve years of planning and persistence, NELHA completed the world’s largest deep seawater pipeline, plunging 3,000 feet into the Pacific. The engineering feat earned Hawaiʻi’s Outstanding Civil Engineering Achievement Award and cemented HOST Park’s role as a global leader in ocean science Even in the shadow of 9/11’s economic impact, tenants pressed ahead. Big Island Abalone opened a 10-acre farm—the largest outside of China. Moana Technologies broke ground on a shrimp genetics facility. SyAqua and Unlimited Halibut brought new species research to Keāhole. Cyanotech extended its reach into Asia with a new Tokyo office. Federal support, championed by Senator Daniel K. Inouye, pushed the ambitious Gateway Project forward, with groundbreaking set for the Distributed Energy Resources Center. At the same time, NELHA moved closer to financial independence, reducing reliance on state funds to just 40 percent.

2000-2001 Building Resilience and Expanding Horizons

The turn of the millennium marked a period of preparation and resilience for NELHA. In 2000, Big Island Abalone Corporation held its official dedication, signaling tenant confidence and community support. By 2001, planning for the deep seawater pipeline reached its final stages, setting up completion of one of the world’s most ambitious ocean engineering projects. Amid the global uncertainty following 9/11, HOST Park tenants expanded operations in aquaculture and biotechnology. Cyanotech grew to more than 90 acres, Aquasearch earned industry recognition, and Moana Technologies advanced shrimp genetics research. Federal and state support pushed the Gateway Project forward, while the Board was restructured to encourage cross-agency collaboration. Friends of NELHA also took shape, formalizing outreach and educational programs that would connect the public more closely to the park’s mission.

2018-2019 Resilience and Renewal

These years were marked by resilience in the face of natural disaster and bold steps toward the future. The eruption of Kīlauea in 2018 completely destroyed NELHA’s Puna property, erasing decades of geothermal infrastructure under 50–100 feet of lava. Even so, HOST Park advanced critical projects: major roadways and utilities opened new lands for development, and a potable water well project reached environmental approval.NELHA doubled down on aquaculture, launching an accelerator in partnership with HATCH Blue, UH, and State agencies—backed by millions in follow-on investment funds. Energy innovation pressed forward with microgrid planning, vanadium flow battery tests, and the world’s largest solar thermal desalination project. The Friends of NELHA welcomed 8,000 visitors a year, while Hale Iako grew as a hub for events and entrepreneurial activity. Financially, NELHA remained self-sufficient, generating nearly $5M annually in revenues.

2017 Foundations for the Future

In 2017, NELHA focused on preparing HOST Park for long-term growth while expanding its role as a global hub for ocean science and energy. Major projects began to open the 80-acre “Ocean CenterPiece” parcel, envisioned as the Park’s economic driver. Road construction, new utilities, and planning for a potable water well removed key barriers to development.Hale Iako, the blue technology incubator completed in 2016, reached nearly 70 percent occupancy and quickly became a hub for new tenants and entrepreneurial activity. Leasing surged to record levels, with 21 new agreements signed.Energy innovation was in the spotlight. NELHA hosted a major Energy Storage Systems conference, attracting speakers from the U.S. Department of Energy and five national labs, and launched projects ranging from a vanadium redox flow battery to microgrid demonstrations. Plans advanced for a new hydrogen production and fueling station, while proposals for a next-generation 100–300 kW OTEC plant were readied. Aquaculture also gained momentum, with the launch of a State-supported initiative to position Hawai‘i as a global leader in sustainable marine aquaculture. This included planning for the Hawai‘i Center for Aquaculture Sustainability (HCAS), modeled after national centers on the mainland.Community outreach thrived. Friends of NELHA hosted over 6,300 visitors, expanding tours and educational programs. Financially, NELHA remained self-sufficient, supported by seawater royalties and land use fees.

2015-2016 Building for the Future, From Shrimp to Seawater Energy

These years brought transformational growth at HOST Park, with new infrastructure, groundbreaking energy projects, and aquaculture advances that resonated globally. Hale Iako, the renovated 14,000-square-foot incubator and office building, opened as a hub for blue technology and entrepreneurship. NELHA also completed the 28-inch surface seawater cross-connector pipeline—on time and 50 percent under budget—strengthening reliability of the world’s largest seawater delivery system.Aquaculture solidified its global footprint. Hawai‘i’s SPF shrimp industry, with leaders like Shrimp Improvement Systems and Moana Marine Biotech, supplied up to 60 percent of broodstock worldwide. Blue Ocean Mariculture expanded Kona Kampachi production offshore, while Kampachi Farms partnered with Lockheed Martin to develop open-ocean fish pens under the “Forever Oceans” venture.

2014 Forty Years of Innovation and Expansion

2014 marked NELHA’s 40th anniversary, and HOST Park entered a new phase of maturity and growth. Major capital projects reshaped the campus: nearly $12 million in state and federal support funded new pipelines, roads, and facilities. Renovation of the old Administration Building into a clean energy and biotechnology incubator began, creating a hub for future tenants.Energy and infrastructure milestones included completion of a solar testbed, progress on microgrid and energy storage partnerships, and critical repairs to the 40-inch deep seawater pipeline—an engineering challenge completed ahead of schedule and under budget that won DBEDT’s “Team of the Year” award.Economic impact surged. A UHERO study showed HOST Park businesses contributed $123 million to Hawai‘i’s economy, supported over 600 jobs, and generated $5 million in state tax revenue. International collaborations deepened through workshops with Japan and visits from GoogleX, Lockheed Martin, and U.S. national labs.

2013 Building Momentum and Partnerships

2013 was a year of growth and transition for NELHA. HOST Park became a magnet for international investment, research, and education. Shrimp Improvement Systems moved its world headquarters from Florida to Kona, investing $10M and becoming one of the park’s largest employers. Major private and public projects surged forward, from monk seal rehabilitation facilities to new charter schools, demonstrating HOST Park’s expanding role in both science and community impact.Infrastructure and energy innovation defined the year. Over $50M in construction was underway or planned, including pipeline repairs, a new connector road, and the foundation for a microgrid. OTEC research advanced with Makai Ocean Engineering’s test facilities and a planned 1 MW demonstration with OTEC International. Meanwhile, Friends of NELHA expanded education programs, nearly doubling visitor counts in just two years.

2012 A Vision for the Future

2012 marked a turning point as NELHA positioned itself not just as a landlord but as a catalyst for Hawai‘i’s green economy. The year saw updates to the Master, Strategic, and Marketing Plans, reaffirming HOST Park’s role as a hub for innovation. Federal grants supported major facility upgrades, including a $3M renovation of the main administration building into an incubator for clean energy and biotechnology, and $400K for the first steps toward a research campus micro-grid.OTEC research surged with Makai Ocean Engineering’s heat exchanger test facility and new negotiations with OTEC International to construct a 1 MW demonstration plant. Cyanotech thrived as a featured success story, reporting $27M in revenues while pioneering the use of cold deep seawater for algae production. Meanwhile, an independent UHERO study revealed HOST Park’s economic impact was nearly $90M annually, generating over 580 jobs statewide.

2024 A Year of Expansion and Strategic Growth

In 2024, NELHA and HOST Park celebrated milestones in infrastructure, tenant expansion, and international partnerships. The Park’s reputation as a global hub for ocean science and sustainable energy continued to grow, supported by new facilities and collaborative programs.Aquaculture remained strong, with Blue Ocean Mariculture and Cyanotech advancing production and exports, while new entrants pursued marine biotechnology and seafood innovation. Energy and water technology initiatives gained momentum, including progress on seawater air conditioning, hydrogen fueling, and battery demonstration projects.Community engagement surged as Friends of NELHA hosted record-breaking numbers of visitors and expanded educational offerings. Economically, HOST Park tenants generated significant revenues and job growth, reinforcing NELHA’s role as a driver of Hawai‘i Island’s innovation economy.

2022-2023 Scaling Innovation and Global Partnerships

NELHA closed out 2022–2023 with strong momentum in aquaculture, renewable energy, and international collaboration. The Park’s tenants attracted significant investment, expanded production, and drove research with global implications.Aquaculture continued to anchor HOST Park. Blue Ocean Mariculture scaled offshore kampachi production and secured new processing capacity. Cyanotech advanced algae-based nutraceutical exports, while Hawai‘i Oceanic Institute and partners pursued cutting-edge marine biotechnology. HATCH’s aquaculture accelerator program brought international startups to Kona, connecting them with local facilities and investors.In energy, HOST Park reinforced its role as a national testbed. Hydrogen fueling and storage facilities advanced, microgrid planning continued, and seawater air conditioning feasibility work progressed. Battery demonstrations and desalination pilots drew attention from federal agencies and international partners.Community engagement returned to pre-pandemic strength. Friends of NELHA resumed in-person tours and expanded educational offerings, welcoming thousands of visitors. Economically, HOST Park’s tenants contributed tens of millions annually to the Hawai‘i Island economy, sustaining hundreds of jobs and global recognition for Hawai‘i as a center of blue technology innovation.

2020-2021 Innovation Amid Global Uncertainty

Despite the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, NELHA and HOST Park advanced key projects and continued to attract investment in aquaculture, energy, and sustainable technologies. Tenants adapted resiliently, and the Park’s infrastructure initiatives moved forward to secure long-term growth. The aquaculture sector strengthened with continued operations from Big Island Abalone, Blue Ocean Mariculture, and Cyanotech, while new ventures explored marine biotechnology and seafood production. The HATCH accelerator expanded support for global aquaculture startups, bringing new energy to the Park’s innovation ecosystem.On the energy front, NELHA advanced planning for seawater air conditioning (SWAC) in West Hawai‘i, continued hydrogen fueling and storage projects, and supported demonstrations of advanced battery storage and microgrid technologies. Community engagement persisted despite pandemic restrictions, with Friends of NELHA adapting tours and outreach to hybrid and online formats. Financially, NELHA maintained self-sufficiency through seawater sales and land use revenues.

From Inception to Innovation

Host park's Historic Timeline & Major Milestones

Trace the significant milestones and transformative events in HOST Park's remarkable journey, highlighting its evolution and impact in this insightful timeline.

Trace NELHA Through the Years

Historical

generative image of a depiction of the 1801 Hualalai flow

Pre-HOST Park

The area was once the site of a very large fishpond, Pā’aiea Pond, rumored to be 3.5 miles long and 1.5 miles wide. The pond, immortalized in the Hawaiian proverb “O na hoku o ka lani, o Pā‘aiea ko lalo – The stars are above, Pā‘aiea below”, was covered by a pahoehoe lava flow in 1801.

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1970s

1974

Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii, operated by University of Hawaii was established as a response to the first oil crisis.

1976

EIS for NELH completed.

1979

Mini-OTEC was anchored offshore of Keāhole Point, demonstrating the world’s first production of net electrical power via closed-cycle OTEC.

1980s

1980

Laboratory facilities and its first pipeline to draw deep seawater from 2,000 ft and surface seawater from 45 ft. depths were completed.

1984

Legislation authorized commercial activities, allowing the Laboratory to host new business ventures.

1985

Supplemental EIS to include HOST Park activities completed.

1986

HOST Park was created on 500+ acres and operated by HTDC. US DOE and HOST Park combined resources to install 40” deep and 28”surface seawater system at Keāhole Point. Lab building AC system converted deep seawater cooling.

1989

Master Plan completed.

1990s

1990

NELH, operated by UH and HOST Park, operated by HTDC merge to become the Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority (NELHA).

1992

Additional EIS work and stretegic plan completed.

1994

Micro-tunneling begins to construct two 66” diameter tunnels under the shoreline and offshore reef as a pipeline protection crossing in preparation for NELHA’s new 55” warm and cold seawater pipelines.

2000s

2002

Successful deployment of 55” pipeline offshore and construction of initial phase of onshore pump station using specially designed fiberglass reinforced intake canisters. First deep seawater desalination project begins for bottled drinking water.

2003

NELHA tenant count reaches 34.

2004

Construction of Hawaii Gateway Distribution Energy Center completed.

2007

Cellana, in partnership with Royal Dutch Shell, begin construction of a 6-acre micro-algae to biofuels research center.

2010s

2011

Master Plan updated. Makai Ocean Engineering completes construction of corrosion lab and heat exchanger test tower to investigate the use of aluminum alloys for OTEC.

2015

August 2015 saw the opening of a modest but functional ocean thermal energy conversion (OTEC) plant in Hawaii. The 100-kilowatt research and development facility became operational, marking the first instance of a closed-cycle OTEC plant being connected to the American grid.

2016

Hale Iako Incubator Building opens, providing office, collaboration and conference space along with business development programs.

2018

Kahilihili St built to provide a frontage road to the park and open up 80 acres. Kicked off Aquaculture Accelerator project with strategic partnerships with HSDC, UH and UH Ventures LLC to market Hawaii’s global visibility in marine aquaculture and capitalize commercial opportunities available.

2020s

2020

FEMA approved request for $3.447 million from damages to the Puna Geothermal plant and successfully secured $3 million from 11 insurance companies involved in the lava damage.

2021

HOST Park and its businesses weather COVID proving the sector’s resilience as no businesses closed and many new projects started during the pandemic. Tenant count reaches 56.

2022

Mauka Research Campus purchased to provide space for new projects.

2030s +

2030 & Beyond

Plans for HOST Park include the buildout of an Innovation village, a sustainability mall with a research inn, and new roads to open remote areas within the park.

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From groundbreaking energy initiatives to pioneering aquaculture, HOST Park has been a hub of innovation for decades. Now, you have the opportunity to be a part of this rich history. Whether launching a cutting-edge project or investing in the future of sustainable development, your journey with us will add a new chapter to the HOST Park story.

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Beyond the Timeline

Discover Stories of PLace

The history of NELH and HOST Park is part of a larger story rooted in Kona ʻĀkau. It is a story of people, culture, geology, and the land itself.

Visit Stories of Place, a rich collection of videos and narratives that share voices and histories, offering deeper context to this land.

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artist rendition of the loko iʻa Pāʻaiea