New solar-powered factory for low-cost water tanks, molded products arrives on Big Island

The machinery used to mold large plastic products using 100% solar energy is seen at NELHA.(Courtesy photo/Special to West Hawaii Today)

Built and operated by LightManufacturing, Inc., (LMI) the Big Island’s newest manufacturing facility uses patented technology to mold high-capacity water tanks using pollution-free solar thermal energy. The company reports the system can also mold aquaculture tanks, road barriers, kayaks and other products which are typically imported into Hawaii. (Courtesy photo/Special to West Hawaii Today)

The Natural Energy Laboratory of Hawaii Authority’s Hawaii Ocean Science and Technology park is home to the island’s newest manufacturing facility — an outdoor factory that molds large plastic products using 100% solar energy.