Bill > SB748

This bill amends Hawaii's existing law regarding water heater requirements for new single-family residential construction by expanding the types of water heating systems that can be used when obtaining a building permit. Previously, the law required solar water heaters; now, the bill allows ENERGY STAR certified heat pump water heaters as an alternative option. The bill defines a heat pump water heater as a device that uses electricity to move heat from one place to another instead of generating heat directly. Homeowners can still apply for a variance from these requirements if they can prove installation is impracticable due to space constraints, is cost-prohibitive based on a life cycle analysis, if they substitute a renewable energy technology system for water heating, or if they install an ENERGY STAR certified demand water heater (a gas-tankless instantaneous water heater) with at least one other gas appliance in the dwelling. The chief energy officer of the Hawaii state energy office must approve any variance, which must be submitted by a licensed architect or mechanical engineer. The bill aims to provide more flexibility in water heating technology while still promoting energy-efficient options for new residential construction.

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https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=748&year=2026