Bill > SB1339

This bill establishes a statewide carbon sequestration and underground water resource characterization program to be implemented by the Hawaii State Energy Office in collaboration with the Hawaii Groundwater and Geothermal Resources Center at the University of Hawaii. The program will use slim-hole boring exploration (narrow boreholes with a diameter of seven inches or less) to identify the location and characteristics of underground water and potential carbon sequestration sites across the state. Prior to and during the program, the Energy Office is required to engage with local counties and communities to explain the project, understand community concerns, and identify appropriate locations for exploration. The bill appropriates $16,500,000 from the Energy Security Special Fund and $135,000 from general revenues to support the program over two fiscal years (2025-2026 and 2026-2027), including funding for one full-time equivalent permanent position. The program will culminate in a progress report to be submitted to the legislature before the 2028 regular session, with findings and recommendations to be made publicly accessible through mapping software. The bill is set to take effect on May 13, 2040, and aims to provide insights that could benefit agriculture, clean energy, and land use planning.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1339&year=2026