PELE’S TRUTH: DEBUNKING THE 5 BIGGEST MYTHS ABOUT GEOTHERMAL ENERGY

“We honor our ancestors not by repeating their fears, but by living their wisdom.”

Geothermal energy is not just science. Its spirit. In Hawaii, where culture and nature are one, we must look deeper than headlines and rumors when shaping our energy future.

Let’s explore the truth behind geothermal energy and why it’s not only safe and sacred but essential.

Myth: Geothermal Disrespects Pele

Truth: Geothermal Honors Her.

Pele is not fragile. She is fierce. The land we walk on is her creation, and the heat beneath us is her breath. Using geothermal energy is not desecration; it is recognition. Just as we honor the ocean by fishing from it and the Raina by planting in it, we can honor Pele by embracing the energy she offers.

This is not exploitation. It is devotion in action.

Myth: Geothermal Is Worse for the Environment than Solar or Wind

Truth: It’s one of the Cleanest, Most Efficient Sources of Power.

• • Zero emissions at the point of use
  • Requires 5-10x less land than solar
  • Runs 24/7, no need to wait for sun or wind

Solar and wind have their place, but they also rely on rare-earth minerals and global shipping. Geothermal is clean, local, and continuous. A solution rooted in the land, not imported from halfway across the world.

Myth: Geothermal Causes Earthquakes or Damages the Land

Truth: Modern Geothermal Is Safe and Designed for Hawaii’s Unique Land.

Hawaii’s geology isn’t like California’s or Switzerland’s. The volcanic heat is already close to the surface. With advanced, closed-loop systems, we can harness this energy without injecting fluids deep into the earth or disturbing fault lines.

Let’s be real, your uncle’s truck makes more noise than a geothermal well.

Myth: Hawaiians Don’t Want Geothermal

Truth: Many do. They just haven’t been heard.

Plenty of kamaʻāina support geothermal. They’re tired of $400 electric bills and want control over local energy. Yes, some people are vocal in their opposition. But many others, especially Native Hawaiians, see geothermal as a way to reclaim sovereignty, reduce costs, and protect the land.

This isn’t about division. It’s about survival with dignity.

Myth: Geothermal Is Just another Corporate Scheme

Truth: Fossil Fuels Are the Real Scam.

Hawaii spends $6 billion a year importing oil. That money leaves our shores, enriching outsiders. Geothermal, developed responsibly and locally, could mean:

• • • Lower electric bills
    • Local jobs
    • Community and Native ownership
    • Energy independence

This isn’t about more profit for corporations. It’s about power by and for the people.

A Call to Action: Listen to the Land, Not the Lies

The misinformation about geothermal energy has kept us stuck in fear while others profit from our hesitation. But Pele gave us a gift, and it’s time we accepted it.

Let’s stop the lies. Let’s start leading.

“Power to the People. Power from the People. Power by Pele.”

FAQs

Does geothermal energy really honor Hawaiian culture and Pele?

Yes. Geothermal energy uses the Earth’s natural heat, which is seen as a gift from Pele. In Hawaiian values, using nature with respect is not exploitation, its harmony. Many Native Hawaiians view it as a way to live in alignment with cultural values and natural cycles.

Is geothermal energy supported by Native Hawaiians?

Yes, many do. Although some are against it, others, particularly those who have to pay high energy bills, view geothermal as a means to regain sovereignty, reduce bills, and live more sustainably. These voices are too often marginalized and need to be heard.

Can geothermal cause earthquakes or ruin land?

Not in Hawaii. Unlike other places, Hawaii’s volcanic heat is close to the surface by definition. Closed-loop systems of today do not mean injecting fluids or breaking fault lines. These types of systems are safe and specially designed for Hawaii’s geology.