February Newsletter: Longer read
The Ocean’s Grand Finale: Closing Out 2024 with a Bang
As 2024 came to a close, the ocean delivered an unforgettable performance. Jaws went XXL for an entire week, culminating in towering XXXL waves right before Christmas. Across Hawaii, crews of dedicated surfers paddled and towed into some of the most incredible heavy-water breaks of the year.
Eddie Aikau Contest at Waimea: The legendary contest ran in epic conditions, honoring Eddie's spirit and showcasing next-level performances.
Jaws Pushes Limits: With waves reaching 70–80 feet, whispers of the "biggest ever" echoed through the lineup.
The Swell Travels to Mavericks: The same swell journeyed to Half Moon Bay, California, where it brought similar heights and exceptional displays of skill at Mavericks.
Relive the Action
My Personal Highlight
One of the biggest waves of my life: a challenging left, a dramatic fall, and the teamwork that brought it all together. My dad, part of the safety crew, made this unforgettable moment even more special. See the story.
This year-end swell served as a reminder of why we chase waves—it’s about the adventure, the challenges, and the camaraderie that make it all worthwhile.
New The Buoy Report Podcast: Ridge Lenny link and photo
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U4AFVFSfM9U
https://www.instagram.com/p/DE-U1BJP16J/
Trump’s Day One Energy Executive Orders: A Bold Agenda for U.S. Energy Policy
Former President Donald Trump has outlined a sweeping energy plan for a potential new term, signaling immediate action through a series of executive orders. These policies aim to prioritize domestic fossil fuel production, deregulate the energy sector, and redefine the U.S. approach to energy independence. Below is a detailed overview of these proposed measures and their implications, along with supporting sources.
1. Declaring a National Energy Emergency
Trump has proposed declaring a national energy emergency, enabling him to bypass traditional regulatory frameworks to:
Fast-track permitting for pipelines, refineries, and power plants.
Expand domestic production of oil, natural gas, and coal to reduce reliance on imports.
This declaration would likely leverage provisions of the National Emergencies Act to speed up infrastructure projects that would otherwise face environmental and legal hurdles.
Source: ZeroHedge
2. Rolling Back Environmental and Efficiency Regulations
Key targets for deregulation include:
Vehicle Emissions: Reducing restrictions on tailpipe pollution and rolling back fuel economy standards set by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
Appliance Efficiency: Loosening energy-efficiency standards for products such as dishwashers, showerheads, and gas stoves.
Building Standards: Scaling back energy-efficiency codes to cut costs for builders and developers.
While proponents argue this will lower costs for consumers and businesses, environmental groups warn of increased pollution and energy waste.
Source: ZeroHedge
3. Expanding Drilling and Mining on Protected Lands
Trump’s plan includes opening protected areas to energy exploration, such as:
The Alaskan Wilderness: Resuming drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR).
National Parks and Monuments: Revisiting boundaries and protections to allow for resource extraction in previously restricted areas.
This expansion could lead to significant economic benefits for energy companies but risks environmental degradation and loss of biodiversity in ecologically sensitive areas.
Source: OilPrice
4. Eliminating Environmental Justice Programs
Trump plans to dismantle federal programs aimed at mitigating pollution in underserved communities. These initiatives, which focus on addressing environmental health disparities, could face cuts or complete elimination.
Critics argue this will disproportionately harm low-income and minority populations already burdened by pollution.
Proponents claim these programs often hinder business growth and infrastructure development.
Source: Politico
5. Strengthening Traditional Energy Production
Trump aims to expand domestic production of fossil fuels, including oil, natural gas, and coal. Proposed measures include:
Increasing investment in offshore drilling and fracking.
Boosting coal mining operations and exports.
Supporting U.S. energy companies in competing on the global market.
This strategy aligns with Trump’s broader goal of energy dominance but contrasts sharply with global trends toward decarbonization.
Source: CNBC
6. Implications and Global Impact
Economic Growth: Trump’s energy agenda could boost fossil fuel jobs and lower energy costs, particularly in regions reliant on coal and oil industries.
Environmental Concerns: Critics highlight potential increases in greenhouse gas emissions and long-term impacts on climate change.
Global Energy Leadership: As other nations accelerate clean energy transitions, the U.S. risks falling behind in renewable energy innovation and market share.
Conclusion
Trump’s proposed energy policies reflect a strong commitment to bolstering domestic fossil fuel industries and reducing regulatory oversight. While supporters see these measures as essential for energy security and economic growth, opponents warn they could undermine environmental progress and global competitiveness in clean energy.
For a deeper analysis of the potential outcomes of Trump’s energy executive orders, visit:
Politico
OilPrice
CNBC
RE+ Honolulu Recap
Game-Changing Innovations:
Savant’s scalable 800A-capacity backup panel is set to redefine energy storage, giving Tesla Powerwall serious competition.
Qcells sets a new efficiency record for solar panels. Read more.
Event Highlights:
Maui Talk: Reflections on the rebuild and next steps for the Blue Continent.
Lessons from LA Fires: Relief efforts and parallels to Maui’s recovery.
New Products Spotlight: Batteries Giving Tesla Powerwall a Run for Its Money
The world of home energy storage is evolving rapidly, and while Tesla's Powerwall continues to lead the market in name recognition, several strong contenders are catching up with impressive innovation. For those exploring politically or functionally aligned alternatives, brands like Enphase, FranklinWH, Discovery, and the latest powerhouse, Savant, are stepping up to the plate.
Savant: A Game-Changer in Scalable Energy Solutions
Known for their cutting-edge home automation and lighting control systems, Savant has entered the energy storage market with a revolutionary offering. Their scalable 800A-capacity backup panel is designed to redefine what’s possible in home energy management. This system not only provides robust backup power but also seamlessly integrates with smart home technologies, making it an ideal choice for tech-savvy homeowners.
Exclusive Opportunity on Maui
We’re excited to share that we’re working on an exclusive partnership with one of our trusted installation partners to bring Savant’s advanced energy system to Maui. This launch will provide local homeowners with access to this groundbreaking technology, perfect for creating resilient and efficient microgrids tailored to Maui’s unique energy needs.
The Competition Heats Up
Other brands like Enphase, FranklinWH, and Discovery are also making strides with innovative battery solutions. These systems emphasize reliability, modular scalability, and smart grid integration, giving homeowners more choices than ever when building a home energy ecosystem.
Whether you’re loyal to Tesla or exploring alternatives, the energy storage market is brimming with opportunities to customize your home’s resilience and sustainability. The future of clean energy storage is here—are you ready to take the next step?
For more information about Savant’s system or to discuss which solution might be right for your home, feel free to reach out! Let’s make 2025 the year you take your energy independence to the next level.
Maxeon Solar Panels Stuck at U.S. Border Due to Tariffs
Maxeon Solar Technologies is facing significant delays as U.S. Customs detains panels from its Mexico facilities under the Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act (UFLPA). Despite proving its supply chain is free from forced labor, including production outside China’s Xinjiang region, the panels remain stuck, impacting project timelines and causing a $179M loss in Q3 2024.
The Biden administration is considering exempting Mexico from tariffs on imported solar equipment, which could ease the disruptions and support renewable energy goals. Industry stakeholders are watching closely, emphasizing the need for stable trade policies to ensure clean energy growth.
Sources: PV Magazine, Reuters
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Land Man Show: Rant….https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmbZwxEnAFc
King Power Partner: Cummins Home Generators – The Ultimate Microgrid Solution
When it comes to building resilient home energy systems, Cummins home generators have become an essential asset in modern microgrid setups. Paired with solar PV and battery storage, these generators provide critical backup power, ensuring energy security no matter the conditions.
Adding a Cummins generator to your home microgrid offers:
Redundancy: A reliable fallback during extended poor weather or off-grid scenarios when solar panels can’t fully charge your battery.
Seamless Integration: Works alongside your PV+Battery system for efficient energy management.
Peace of Mind: Whether it’s unexpected outages or just preparation for extreme scenarios, a generator adds an extra layer of security.
For me, this addition feels like coming full circle—combining clean energy with dependable backup solutions to create systems that can handle anything, even a "zombie apocalypse."
Let’s talk about how a Cummins generator can elevate your energy independence and resilience. Contact us to learn more!
Real Estate Update: Exciting Developments at Compass
I’m thrilled to share that I’m settling into my new brokerage home with Compass and continuing my partnership with Jeremy Stice. Compass brings cutting-edge tools and a collaborative network that empower agents to deliver unmatched value to clients. From innovative marketing strategies to state-of-the-art technology, Compass provides the resources needed to elevate every listing and streamline the buying and selling experience.
Featured Listing: Haiku Hideaway
We’re preparing a private, exclusive off-market listing that’s currently being remodeled and will be ready to hit the market soon. Here’s a sneak peek:
Location: Downtown Haiku
Main House: 5 bedrooms
Cottage: 2+1 configuration
Lot Size: ½ acre with ocean views
Special Highlight: A peek-a-boo view of Hookipa from the master bedroom!
With Compass’s exceptional resources and my commitment to providing personalized service, we’re ready to showcase this property in its best light. Stay tuned for updates, and if you’re interested or know someone who might be, let me know—off-market opportunities like this don’t last long!
GPT revised:
The Ocean’s Grand Finale: Closing Out 2024
2024 ended with an unforgettable swell. Jaws went XXL for a week, peaking in massive XXXL waves before Christmas. Across Hawaii, surfers paddled and towed into some of the year’s most incredible heavy-water breaks:
Eddie Aikau Contest: Legendary performances honored Eddie’s spirit.
Jaws: Waves reached 70–80 feet, with whispers of "biggest ever."
Mavericks: The same swell delivered incredible rides in California.
Relive the Action:
One personal highlight? Tackling one of the biggest waves of my life, thanks to teamwork with my dad and safety crew.Watch here.