Bill > SB700

This bill requires the Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) to collaborate with state agencies to assess the feasibility of developing "resilience hubs" - facilities that can provide critical emergency services to the public during crisis situations. A resilience hub is defined as a location open to the public that can offer essential services like shelter, food, water, medicine, medical care, energy, electricity, telecommunications, internet access, fuel, and electric vehicle charging. The legislation is motivated by Hawaii's recognition of increasing climate change risks, particularly in the wake of the 2023 Maui wildfires, which highlighted the need for improved emergency preparedness and grid resilience. The HSEO will be required to submit a comprehensive report detailing its findings and recommendations, including potential legislative proposals, to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the 2026 regular legislative session. The hubs, when feasible, should utilize renewable energy sources and can be located at either public or private facilities. The bill is part of Hawaii's broader climate emergency response strategy, with the ultimate goal of building state resilience against the potential impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring the ability to provide critical services during emergencies.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=700&year=2025