Bill > HCR48

This Concurrent Resolution requests the Public Utilities Commission (PUC), Hawaii's regulatory body for utility services, to actively address the significant financial strain that high energy costs place on low- and moderate-income households, a situation exacerbated by Hawaii's high electricity rates and the increasing need for air conditioning due to climate change. The resolution specifically asks the PUC to consider input from the Consumer Advocate, an entity that represents consumer interests, and to investigate ways to incorporate principles of energy equity and justice into all its operations, ensuring that the benefits and burdens of energy development are distributed fairly. To achieve this, the PUC is asked to examine various potential solutions, including discount rates, bill assistance programs, protections against service disconnections, and community benefit agreements for areas hosting energy projects, and to report its findings and recommendations to the Legislature by early 2023.