Bill > SR115

This resolution requests the Hawaii State Energy Office to establish a Geothermal Energy Working Group to comprehensively evaluate the regulatory and policy landscape surrounding geothermal energy in Hawaii. The working group would be composed of representatives from various state agencies, county planning departments, utilities, the geothermal industry, non-governmental organizations, and the Native Hawaiian community, with the Chief Energy Officer serving as chairperson. The group's primary objectives include identifying regulatory and permitting challenges affecting geothermal energy, reviewing best practices from other jurisdictions, assessing geothermal expansion potential, and providing recommendations for policy and regulatory reforms to create a clear pathway for geothermal energy development. This initiative is driven by Hawaii's commitment to achieving a 100% renewable energy portfolio by 2045, the state's current heavy dependence on imported fossil fuels, and strong public support for expanding renewable energy resources. The working group is expected to submit a comprehensive report to the Legislature prior to the 2027 Regular Session, outlining their findings and potential legislative proposals to advance geothermal energy development in a manner that supports energy resilience, affordability, and community needs.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SR&billnumber=115&year=2025