HONOLULU, Hawaii –The Alaka'ina Foundation announced that it has formed a grant partnership with Maui Electric Company (MECO) to develop a “green bus” for its Digital Bus program. The new bus, which will demonstrate the latest in green technology such as solar panels and biodiesel power, will help educate students about alternative energy sources.

The Digital Bus program features mobile laboratories that are designed to stimulate interest in science and technology among public school students. Equipped with the latest technology, digital buses are used to provide hands-on education of students from grades K to 12. Projects range from watershed investigation and restoration to math instruction to ocean and stream monitoring. The addition of green technology expands the learning opportunity for students to include renewable energy.

“Our partnership with Maui Electric Company is essential to making the green bus a reality,” says Jessica Horiuchi, Alaka'ina Foundation executive director. In addition to MECO’s commitment, Horiuchi expressed appreciation to Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc. for providing the bus that will be reengineered to incorporate green technology.

• The Alaka'ina Foundation green bus project will promote the concept of photovoltaic (PV) power systems as an alternative to conventional fuels by installing non-grid-connected PV power systems on the roof of the Maui Digital Bus. An educational display provided by MECO will allow students to view the PV system description and operation. MECO is also equipping the Alaka`ina Foundation with their “Solar Power in the Schools” curricula to encourage the development of renewable energies.

About Alaka‘ina Foundation

The Alaka‘ina Foundation is a non-profit Native Hawaiian Organization. Its goal is to ensure that the youth of Hawai’i have the skills and competencies needed to become effective leaders. The Foundation is making this a reality by developing innovative educational programs, such as the Digital Bus project, that combine leadership, science and technology, and environmental stewardship. From more information, visit the Foundation online at www.alakainafoundation.org.