Hawaii regulators are holding a public meeting on Maui in January regarding the planned undersea cable that would connect the electric grids of both Oahu and Maui.

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission said that it is looking for input from stakeholders regarding whether an interisland transmission system connecting Oahu and Maui grids may be in the public interest.

Specifically, the PUC is wanting feedback on policy issues and overall objectives with respect to how, where and at what cost an undersea cable may be developed.

Earlier this month, Mark Glick, administrator for the state Energy Office, told PBN that the proposed grid connection could result in a savings of $423 million for ratepayers over a 30-year period.

The grid tie is considered a major component as Hawaii pursues its renewable energy goal.

Glick also says that the interisland grid tie is an important initial step toward the ultimate goal of utilizing geothermal energy from the Big Island, which would involve connecting Maui to the Big Island.

The meeting, which is being held at the Pomaikai Elementary School Cafeteria in Kahului, is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. on Jan. 23.