It is a great place to harness geothermal energy and I hope they manage to one day run plants properly. In places like Hawaii, geothermal energy is the most cost efficient way to create energy.
But apparently the current power plant was horribly run. Open venting of geothermal gases and liquids dripped toxic materials into the environment. They had extremely poor environmental monitoring in general. Whole thing got swept under the rug. From corporate lies to disregard to hear residents requests. The compant who runs the plant lost all trust.
So the residents are beyond pissed at the moment, which is understandable. And until a respectful installment and operation of future plants cannot be guaranteed, there will be some trouble.
Another ongoing discussion is the proper use of Pele's power. Is it to be left alone and respected, or is it to be seen as a gift from Pele that should be harnessed. In the traditional Hawaiian way of thinking the use of geothermal energy is not supported. This belief stems from the idea that as long as Pele’s back is hot and she is active, her energy should not be used or manipulated.