Bill > SB1499

This bill modifies Hawaii's Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) by removing the Public Utilities Commission's (PUC) authority to penalize electric utility companies that fail to meet renewable energy generation targets. The bill maintains the existing RPS goals, which require electric utilities to progressively increase the percentage of electricity generated from renewable sources, ultimately reaching 100% renewable electricity generation by December 31, 2045. The bill eliminates the previous provisions that outlined specific circumstances under which utilities could be exempted from penalties, such as weather-related damage, natural disasters, mechanical failures, or inability to acquire sufficient renewable energy. By removing the penalty provisions, the bill effectively makes the renewable portfolio standards more of a guideline than a strict requirement, while still maintaining the state's ambitious clean energy goals. The bill also preserves the PUC's obligation to conduct periodic studies and evaluations of the renewable portfolio standards every five years, ensuring that the standards remain effective and achievable as technology and market conditions evolve.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=1499&year=2026