Bill > SB665

This bill requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to conduct a comprehensive study on decarbonizing various energy consumption sectors, focusing on identifying the most cost-effective investments in clean energy alternatives to combustible fuels. The study will analyze different sectors including electricity, transportation, and heating across residential, commercial, and industrial contexts, with specific attention to ground transportation, sea and air interisland transportation, and international cargo shipping. The research will prioritize conservation and efficiency strategies, as well as energy storage solutions to ensure reliable power supply. The study is motivated by a recent settlement agreement (Navahine F. v. Hawaii Department of Transportation) that mandates greenhouse gas reduction in the state's transportation system, with the ultimate goal of achieving zero emissions by 2045. The bill emphasizes that any combustion of carbon-based fuels cannot be considered a legitimate part of emissions reduction, and that electrification must be paired with combustion-free electricity generation. The Hawaii State Energy Office is required to submit a detailed report with findings and recommendations, including potential legislation, to the state legislature no later than twenty days before the 2026 regular legislative session. The bill will take effect immediately upon approval.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=665&year=2025