Bill > HB344

This bill addresses electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in Hawaii by implementing several key provisions. Beginning July 1, 2026, all new state building construction with parking must include a predetermined number of electric vehicle charger-ready parking stalls, which means having the necessary electrical infrastructure to support Level 2 charging stations. The Hawaii State Energy Office is required to conduct a comprehensive survey of existing state facilities and parking lots to identify between four to ten high-priority locations for EV charging infrastructure retrofits. The survey will consider factors such as location, expected future demand, estimated retrofit costs, and potential synergies with other planned improvements. The bill establishes a statewide goal of retrofitting state facilities to be EV charger-ready and appropriates funds for detailed cost assessments and potential installations. The legislation is motivated by the growing adoption of electric vehicles in Hawaii (15% of new car sales in 2024) and aims to provide charging options for people who may not have access to home charging, such as renters and low-income families. By encouraging workplace and state facility charging, the bill also seeks to support grid efficiency by promoting daytime charging when energy is typically cheaper and cleaner.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=344&year=2025