MECO to start work on water retention basin in Maalaea

Maui Electric Co. will begin construction of an earthen berm, or stormwater retention basin, this month along North Kihei Road fronting its Maalaea power plant, according to an announcement.

The project aims to protect surrounding areas from excessive storm runoff that could happen during heavy rains. The work is not expected to affect traffic or electrical service.

The planned 3-foot-high basin is planned for about 5 acres between the Maalaea plant and the road. It will not be visible from the road.

“We take our responsibility for the environment very seriously and this new retention basin will provide further protection of the ocean and nearby wetlands by capturing excess stormwater runoff at our facility that could occur during heavy rains,” said Mat McNeff, director of power supply at Maui Electric. “With our islands experiencing more severe and frequent storms that result in major flooding, the basin will provide additional protection to our environment by reducing the potential for direct storm water overflow.”

Now, MECO manages excess stormwater runoff with frequent ground sweeping and equipment cleaning. These measures are based on industry-best management practices, the utility reported.

The basin will be made primarily of soil, which will allow the basin to empty as the stormwater percolates into the ground. Once built, the basin would be cleaned as needed.

For more information, call 872-3244.