Bill > HB339

This bill introduces new regulations for the acquisition, merger, or consolidation of electric utility companies in Hawaii, aimed at protecting the state's renewable energy goals and workforce stability. The legislation requires the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to impose specific conditions when approving such transactions, including prohibiting changes to renewable portfolio standards through December 31, 2040, maintaining existing performance-based regulation frameworks, and preserving power purchase agreements with independent energy producers. The bill mandates that when an investor-owned utility seeks to acquire an electric utility, the utility must first solicit bids from non-investor-owned entities (such as member-owned cooperatives or non-profit organizations) and submit these alternative bids concurrently with the investor-owned utility's application. Additionally, the acquiring entity must maintain existing collective bargaining agreements, retain current employees, and cannot reduce the workforce except for cause. These provisions are designed to ensure continuity of Hawaii's renewable energy transition, protect workers, and maintain the integrity of existing energy policies and contracts during potential utility ownership changes.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=339&year=2026