Bill > HB342

This bill requires gas utility companies in Hawaii to file a proposed renewable gas tariff with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) by August 31, 2025, which will allow customers to voluntarily purchase renewable gas. Renewable gas is defined as gas produced from non-petroleum feedstock, and the tariff will be based on a customer's net therm usage (the amount of gas used during a monthly billing cycle). The PUC must review and approve or modify the proposed tariff within six months of filing, with the critical condition that the new tariff cannot increase rates for other customers and must be deemed just, reasonable, and in the public interest. The legislative intent behind this bill is to support Hawaii's environmental and climate resilience objectives by reducing dependence on imported petroleum, providing environmentally conscious consumers an option to purchase renewable gas, and expediting the establishment of renewable energy resources. The bill aims to help the state minimize energy price disruptions and achieve its decarbonization goals by creating a straightforward mechanism for gas utilities to offer renewable gas options to their customers. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 3000, which appears to be a placeholder date typically used when the exact implementation date is not yet determined.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=342&year=2025