Bill > SB1071

This bill aims to expand the Clean Energy and Energy Efficiency Revolving Loan Fund to provide financial assistance to a broader range of "underserved ratepayers," which includes state and local governments, low- and moderate-income homeowners, renters, nonprofits, small businesses, and multi-family rental projects. The legislation recognizes the importance of rooftop solar plus storage systems in helping Hawaii meet its 100% renewable energy goal by 2045 and addressing challenges in existing financing programs. Specifically, the bill adds a new definition for "underserved ratepayers" to state law, modifies the existing revolving loan fund to explicitly allow loans to these groups, and provides for an appropriation of funds (though the specific dollar amount is not specified in the bill) to be deposited into and disbursed from the loan fund. The Hawaii Green Infrastructure Authority will manage these funds, which can be used to provide low-cost loans for clean energy investments, cover administrative costs, and support technical assistance. The bill is set to take effect on July 1, 2025, and is designed to help expand access to clean energy financing for groups that have been previously underserved by existing solar and storage loan programs.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1071&year=2026