Bill > HB2608

This bill amends Hawaii Revised Statutes Section 196-6.5 to allow for building permit variances for new single-family dwellings that do not install a solar water heater system, provided that a high-efficiency electric water heating system utilizing heat pump technology, in conjunction with a photovoltaic system, is substituted as the primary energy source for heating water. This change is intended to promote clean energy alternatives, reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels, and expand access to energy cost savings for a wider range of housing types, acknowledging the advancements and cost reductions in heat pump water heater technology and the expiration of federal incentives. The bill also clarifies that a variance can be granted if a high-efficiency electric water heating system using heat pump technology is installed alongside a photovoltaic system, which is a renewable energy technology system. This provision is set to take effect on July 1, 3000.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Government Affairs

https://www.capitol.hawaii.gov/session/measure_indiv.aspx?billtype=HB&billnumber=2608&year=2026