Bill > SB2888

This bill aims to boost renewable energy adoption in Hawaii by increasing the state's rooftop solar tax credit to 45% for tax years beginning after December 31, 2025, through December 31, 2030, and establishing a Direct Solar Rebate Program administered by the Hawaii State Energy Office for low- and moderate-income households, offering rebates of $5,000 or $3,000 depending on income level, with additional rebates for battery storage systems. It also mandates that counties develop electronic application systems for rooftop solar permitting, requiring permits to be approved or denied within ten business days, and designates a solar permitting ombudsman in each county to assist applicants. Furthermore, the bill requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to enhance its workforce development program to connect job seekers with solar industry jobs, particularly those from underserved communities, and to provide support to counties in streamlining their permitting processes. The bill also includes provisions for electric utilities to expedite solar interconnection applications and imposes penalties for delays, and appropriates $10 million for the rebate program and $2 million for workforce development initiatives.

Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=2888&year=2026