Kapolei-based Hoku Scientific Inc. said it will share hot process water from its planned Idaho polysilicon plant with a neighboring malt house in a move that will help both companies save money.

Hoku, which is building a $390 million polysilicon plant near Pocatello, said the closed-loop, pressurized system connecting it with the Great Western Malting Co. will provide a lower-cost option for itself to cool and recycle water.

When the system is complete in 2.5 years, it's also expected to reduce Great Western's natural-gas costs and slash emissions.

Dustin Shindo, chief executive officer of Hoku, said the deal helps both companies be good neighbors and business partners.

Great Western, based in Vancouver, Wash., produces malted barley, a primary ingredient in beer.