Can Geothermal Energy Fuel Hawaiʻi’s Future?

In this commentary, Gavin Murphy—a longtime advocate for economic development and former CEO of Trust Tairāwhiti, a regional community trust in New Zealand—shares his reflections on a recent visit to Hawaiʻi, where he met with Native Hawaiian geothermal advocates, state officials, and lawmakers. Murphy, who has supported indigenous-led geothermal projects in Aotearoa (New Zealand), sees Hawaiʻi at a critical juncture: residents of Hawaiʻi Island face the nation’s highest energy costs, and outmigration is rising as families struggle to afford basic living expenses. As reported by Murphy, the Hawaiʻi Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) is committed to identifying and developing geothermal sites to help stabilize electricity prices and boost local economic growth.

Murphy draws compelling parallels between Māori and Native Hawaiian cultural values, emphasizing the importance of respecting spiritual ties to geothermal resources. In both cultures, geothermal energy is considered a sacred treasure — taonga in Māori and connected to Tūtū Pele, the volcano goddess, in Hawaiian tradition. While New Zealand began producing geothermal power in 1958, Hawaiʻi only began in 1993, and now faces an urgent need to shift from costly imported fossil fuels to local, firm renewable sources. With a goal of reaching 100% renewable energy on the neighbor islands by 2035, DBEDT’s efforts—alongside an outreach plan by Waika Consulting to develop a 50–100MW power plant—are timely and necessary.

Murphy, who collaborated on New Zealand geothermal projects such as Te Ahi O Maui and Taheke 8C, believes Hawaiʻi can replicate that success. With strong support from Governor Josh Green, Mayor Mitch Roth, and other state leaders, he sees geothermal development as a transformative opportunity for the islands. By integrating indigenous leadership, cultural sensitivity, and long-term planning, Hawaiʻi has a chance to build a more sustainable, equitable energy system—one that benefits families, businesses, and future generations.