Bill > SB669

This bill requires new single-family residential developments with 20 or more dwellings to install rooftop photovoltaic (solar) energy generating systems beginning January 1, 2026, with specific provisions for obtaining variances. Developers can request a variance from the Hawaii State Energy Office if a licensed architect or electrical engineer can prove that solar installation is either impracticable due to poor solar resources or cost-prohibitive based on a 25-year life cycle cost-benefit analysis. The bill defines a qualifying rooftop photovoltaic system as having at least five kilowatts of generating capacity and including an energy storage device like a battery. Variance applications must be publicly disclosed, and will be automatically approved if not denied within 60 working days. The chief energy officer is authorized to adopt administrative rules and collect fees for processing variances, with those fees deposited into the energy security special fund. The bill does not prevent counties from establishing their own implementation procedures and does not interfere with existing utility demand-side management or public benefits programs, providing flexibility while promoting solar energy adoption in new residential developments.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=669&year=2026