November Newsletter
Aloha from The Buoy Report!
As we near the end of a busy year, we're excited to share the latest on energy independence, new partnerships, podcast episodes, and surf updates. A big mahalo to everyone reading, replying, and subscribing. Your attention and feedback inspire us to bring you meaningful stories and insights.
We just revamped our website, The Buoy Report, and are proud to share it. Please give it a tour and send some feedback.
The Cycle We Ride: by Bryan Iguchi
Water evaporates.
Clouds form.
Life begins.
Snow storm atop high peaks.
Falls heavy.
Settles. Melts.
Flows through tributaries. Streams. Into rivers.
And finds the sea.
And returns to the air.
This process we follow.
The cycle we ride.
This beautiful poem, featured in Travis Rice’s film The Fourth Phase, captures the essence of the natural hydrological cycles and the lifestyle he and his homies live chasing the world's best snow on the biggest and steepest mountains rideable on a snowboard. This poem also speaks closely to the heart of what The Buoy Report is and the cycles of energy converting all around us that we look to explore and document. Travis is a close friend and frequent Maui visitor who trains with us in the offseason at our favorite local gym: Deep 2 Peak. After hearing this poem when watching the film, I knew we needed to feature him on The Buoy Report Podcast. Tune into our conversation here on Spotify or Youtube. Please give them a like and subscribe on your preferred platform.
The Buoy Report Podcast is Live!
“Documenting Waves of Energy”
Our new podcast series has launched, bringing you voices from science, surf, adventure, and sustainability. Whether you’re looking to expand your worldview or dive deep into surf culture, our conversations connect you with the people shaping these fields. Catch us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or Substack for inspiring stories and insights.
Episode 1: Garrett Lisi
Join us as we start with physicist Garrett Lisi, who dives into his “Exceptionally Simple Theory of Everything.” Hear Garrett’s unique views on physics, life on Maui, and balancing science with surfing. Whether you’re a science lover or a surf enthusiast, this episode has something for you. Spotifty or Youtube links
Episode 2: Jaws Lords Albee Layer and Torrey Meister
Next, sit down with big wave surfers @live.fast.die.old and @torreymeister as they break down board tech, wave prediction, and what it takes to tackle Jaws. This episode offers a deep dive into the world of big-wave surfing for anyone who loves the thrill of the ocean. Spotifty or Youtube links
Episode 3: Travis Rice
Our new episode with @Travis Rice. Get ready for an inspiring talk with the legendary snowboarder and adventurer about his journeys, approach to sustainability, and deep respect for the wild and what really is the fourth phase of water. Spotifty or Youtube links
Celebrating One Year of Maui Energy Advisors
Maui Energy Advisors is proud to celebrate its first anniversary! Our new office at the Pauwela Cannery in Haiku is now open, a creative hub surrounded by artists, craftsmen, surfboard shapers, and even a kombucha brewery. Check out mauienergy.io to see how we transform energy use across the islands.
Case Study Highlight: 35kW Maxeon 415-watt panels + 8 Tesla Powerwall2 installation for Harvey Construction in partnership with No Problem Electric.
Partner Spotlight: King Power Systems Hawaii
We’re thrilled to announce our Maui Energy Advisors new partnership with King Power Systems Hawaii, adding reliable generator solutions to our micro-grid energy backup offerings. Together, we’re creating more resilient energy setups for homes and businesses. Learn more about our new partner and their commitment to reliable energy on their website. Please let me know if you want to add a Cummins Generator to your home energy backup system.
Post-Election Outlook: Implications for the U.S. Renewable Energy Industry
The recent presidential election has created significant uncertainties for the U.S. renewable energy sector. With potential changes on the horizon, the renewable industry is preparing for impacts on federal policies, tax credits, and leadership within the Department of Energy. Here’s what to watch:
Inflation Reduction Act and Federal Tax Credit (ITC) Uncertainty
The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) has supported renewable energy growth through subsidies, including the Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which currently provides a 30% federal tax credit for solar and other renewable energy installations. The new administration has signaled potential adjustments or repeals that could affect the stability and availability of this tax credit. The ITC has been a major driver in renewable adoption, especially for solar and storage systems, and any changes may influence project viability and investor interest.
New Department of Energy Leadership
Chris Wright, the CEO of Liberty Energy and an outspoken advocate for fossil fuels, has been nominated as the Secretary of Energy. His appointment suggests potential shifts in focus toward deregulation and fossil fuel production, which could impact the trajectory of renewable energy development at the federal level. Industry experts are closely watching how his leadership may reshape national energy priorities.
State-Level Commitments to Renewable Energy
Despite potential federal rollbacks, many U.S. states have pledged to continue advancing renewable energy goals independently. Several governors have reiterated commitments to maintaining state-led climate initiatives, which may help sustain renewable energy growth across state lines even amidst federal policy shifts.
As the new administration takes office, renewable energy stakeholders are closely monitoring these developments to understand their potential impact on the industry's future. Stay tuned for further updates as we continue to track these changes and their implications for clean energy progress in the U.S.
U.S. Utilities Want Trump, Republicans to Save Inflation Act - Reuters
Chris Wright Energy Secretary Nomination - Politico
Trump Picks Fracking Boss As Next Energy Secretary- Zero Hedge
High Wind Advisory & HECO’s PSPS Update
As we continue into a season of heightened weather conditions, a High Wind Advisory remains in effect, impacting energy stability across the islands. Hawaiian Electric’s Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) are still active as needed to reduce fire risks during high wind events, a precautionary measure that prioritizes community safety but may result in power interruptions.
At the time of writing, current conditions show sustained winds of over 20 knots at KLIH1 station, with occasional gusts exceeding advisory thresholds. If you’re relying on grid power, consider preparing for intermittent outages, and remember that backup solutions like our solar + storage and new generator offerings can keep your home powered when grid reliability is uncertain.
Stay tuned to The Buoy Report for further updates on conditions and best practices to maintain power resilience!
Links: Wind Forecast Windguru; iWindSurf; Kahului Airport
New Beginnings in Real Estate: Joining Compass Maui Team
Exciting news. I'm thrilled to share that I’m now joining Compass Real Estate on Maui alongside my trusted partner, Jeremy Stice. Together, we’re committed to bringing a fresh, dynamic approach to Maui’s real estate market, backed by Compass’s cutting-edge tools and exceptional support network.
We’re gearing up to launch an incredible new listing in Haiku, blending island charm with modern amenities in one of Maui’s most picturesque settings. Keep an eye out for details soon, and reach out if you’re curious about this listing or the current Maui real estate landscape.
Looking forward to this next chapter and helping more clients make their island dreams a reality!
Winter Swell Update:
Surf Season is Here!
The North Pacific winter is here, with the first few low-pressure storm cycles moved across the ocean. No hall fame swells yet to share, just lots of wind. Opening days at Pipeline, Honolua, and Jaws were had under windy conditions. Check it out: Storm Surf Weekly Video.
Mahalo for being part of The Buoy Report community. Here’s to new energy solutions, shared knowledge, and unforgettable waves.
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Shaun Lopez
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