Why We Like the Deal
"A scalable energy solution addressing Hawaii’s dependency on petroleum with proven technology."
Hawaii relies on petroleum for nearly 90% of its energy—double the U.S. average of 40%—creating an urgent need for innovative solutions to reduce costs and reliance on fossil fuels. Kanoa Winds addresses this gap with its proprietary Vertical Coaxial Contra-Rotating Twin Blade (VCCT) turbines, designed to deliver consistent, efficient, and environmentally friendly power generation. Proven over a decade in Japan, the turbines operate with ≤40 dB noise and achieve superior efficiency in distributed energy markets.
The business model focuses on deploying energy parks in high-wind regions like Oahu’s North Shore, enabling scalability while optimizing customer payback periods to as low as six years. By targeting commercial enterprises spending $1,000 or more monthly on electricity, Kanoa Winds offers an infrastructure-grade solution with tangible cost savings and alignment to Hawaii’s 2045 renewable energy mandate.
Key Merits:
- Proven Efficiency: VCCT turbines ensure high energy output across variable wind conditions with minimal maintenance.
- Targeted Deployment: Strategic energy parks centralize operations, maximizing scalability and cost-effectiveness for commercial users.
Key Risks and Mitigants:
- Regulatory Complexity: Mitigated by alignment with federal and state incentives under the Inflation Reduction Act.
- Capital-Intensive Deployment: Phased rollout minimizes risk and ensures predictable ROI through tested clustering models.
This independent assessment reflects my professional perspective as the deal lead and underwriter.
Thomas Carter
Managing Partner
Deal Box Ventures
Community Conviction
"Harnessing Hawaii’s wind to drive energy independence—this is sustainable transformation."
As a member of the Deal Box community, my conviction in Kanoa Winds stems from its ability to address Hawaii’s unique energy challenges in a way that feels both innovative and deeply practical. For too long, Hawaii has relied on imported petroleum for nearly 90% of its energy, leaving businesses and residents at the mercy of rising costs and market volatility. Kanoa Winds offers a tangible solution through its VCCT technology—proven over a decade and purpose-built for distributed energy generation in high-wind environments.
What resonated most with me was the simplicity and efficiency of their approach. The concept of energy parks centralizing small-scale wind turbines in optimal locations is not just scalable—it’s a model that feels tailored to Hawaii’s specific regulatory and economic framework. This isn’t about futuristic concepts; it’s about executing on an idea that balances innovation with operational clarity. The six-year payback period for customers, paired with long-term durability and low environmental impact, made the investment case even stronger.
My Thesis on Kanoa Wind's Potential:
- Localized Solution: Kanoa Winds directly addresses Hawaii’s energy dependence with technology built for its unique landscape.
- Sustainable Economics: The predictable payback period and recurring revenue from energy monitoring offer clear financial upside.
- Proven Execution: Decades of success with VCCT turbines provide confidence in both technology and leadership.
This independent assessment reflects my personal perspective as an investor and community member.
Nestor Carvallo
Individual Investor
DLBX Community Contributor