Bill > HCR58

This joint resolution requests the Hawaii State Energy Office to convene a Geothermal Energy Working Group to comprehensively evaluate the regulatory and policy landscape surrounding geothermal energy in Hawaii. The working group would include representatives from various state agencies, legislative committees, counties, utilities, the geothermal industry, and academic institutions, with the goal of identifying key challenges affecting geothermal energy development. The group is tasked with reviewing best practices from other jurisdictions, assessing the potential for geothermal expansion, and its role in supporting energy resilience and affordability. This initiative stems from Hawaii's commitment to achieving a 100% renewable energy portfolio by 2045 and the recognition that the state remains heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels. The working group is expected to provide recommendations to the Legislature and Governor on policy and regulatory reforms necessary to establish an efficient pathway for geothermal energy development, with a report to be submitted no later than twenty days before the 2027 Regular Session. The resolution reflects strong public support for renewable energy, with 91% of survey respondents supporting the expansion of renewable energy resources throughout the state.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Business and Industry, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HCR&billnumber=58&year=2025