Most of Hawaii’s energy comes from expensive, imported fossil fuels, so it’s no surprise solar power is a hot ticket there. In fact, SolarPowerRocks.com ranks the state 15th best in the nation on its 2017 Solar Report Card. The hospitality sector has long been a sustainability leader in Hawaii, and going solar is high on the list for hotel and resort upgrades.

Among the latest solar converts in the Aloha State is Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, located on 40 oceanfront acres along a 3-mile stretch of famed Kaanapali Beach. The property became Hawaii’s first LEED Silver resort in 2014.

The resort’s system of solar panels, one of the largest rooftop photovoltaic systems in the state, produces more than 6 percent of the resort’s annual electricity needs, equal to powering 158 homes. Reduction in yearly CO2 emissions is the equivalent of removing 111 cars from the road.

“Our efforts here at the Hyatt Regency Maui have created greater awareness of environmental sustainability among the community and our resort guests,” says Gary Bulson, senior engineer at the resort and a member of the Green Team, a group of employees involved in sustainability initiatives. “We are currently in the process of introducing a sustainability tour around our property that will increase awareness of the different areas [in which] we are making environmental advancements, including water efficiency, ocean and reef protection, minimizing food waste, recycling, solar energy, air quality and green cleaning.”

Hyatt Regency Maui also embraces Hyatt Thrive, a long-term strategic approach to environmental sustainability built on three focus areas: Use Resources Thoughtfully, Build Smart, and Innovate and Inspire.

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