Bill > SB3081

This bill establishes the Underground Energy Resource Characterization Program within the Hawaii State Energy Office, in partnership with the University of Hawaii's Hawaii Groundwater and Geothermal Resources Center, to identify potential geothermal heat and carbon sequestration resources across the state using a method called "slim-hole boring," which involves drilling holes seven inches or less in diameter for most of their depth. If a resource suitable for geothermal energy development is found, the program will initiate an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement, as required by state law, involving relevant state agencies and input from Native Hawaiian cultural practitioners, to evaluate potential impacts. The Hawaii State Energy Office will also share information about geothermal energy's role in achieving energy self-sufficiency, considering commercial technologies and cultural, economic, and land use factors, and will submit annual reports to the legislature on geothermal energy technology developments and activities in other states, with a specific progress report due in 2028. The bill appropriates funds from the energy security special fund for fiscal year 2026-2027 to support these efforts and will take effect on April 19, 2042.

Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=SB&billnumber=3081&year=2026