Bill > SB399

This bill directs the Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO), in collaboration with the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute (HNEI), to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for establishing an atmospheric carbon capture plant in Hawaii. The study aims to explore the potential for a technological solution to combat climate change by removing carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere, using advanced techniques involving high-powered fans and filters that can store captured carbon underground. Recognizing the significant global carbon emissions (over 30 billion tons annually) and the urgent need to limit global warming, the bill requires the HSEO to examine critical details including construction type, potential plant location, estimated costs, staffing needs, and projected annual carbon dioxide capture rates. The legislation is motivated by findings that carbon capture technologies are essential for limiting global temperature increases and that such plants can remove substantially more carbon than traditional methods like tree planting. The HSEO must submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations to the legislature no later than 40 days before the 2026 regular legislative session, potentially positioning Hawaii to access federal funding for climate mitigation technologies and demonstrating the state's proactive approach to addressing climate change.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=399&year=2025