Bill > SB399

This bill directs the Hawaii State Energy Office, in collaboration with the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute, to conduct a comprehensive feasibility study for constructing an atmospheric carbon capture plant in Hawaii. The study will explore various aspects of potential carbon capture facilities, including construction type, location, estimated costs, staffing needs, and projected annual carbon dioxide removal rates. The bill acknowledges the serious threat of climate change and recognizes that carbon capture technologies are essential for limiting global warming, referencing successful carbon capture plants in Iceland that can remove thousands of tons of carbon dioxide annually. The legislature finds that while Hawaii aims to achieve 100% renewable energy by 2045, additional climate action strategies are necessary. The bill requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations to the legislature no later than forty days before the 2026 regular legislative session, potentially positioning the state to obtain federal funding for carbon capture technologies. The proposed study is motivated by the urgent need to proactively address rising temperatures and extreme weather events, with the ultimate goal of developing a strategy to effectively remove carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=399&year=2026