SB 1269: DBEDT; Geothermal Resources; Appropriation
- Session Year: 2025-2026
- House: Senate
- Latest Version Date: 2025-03-20
Current Status:
Failed
(2026-03-20: Received notice of all Senate conferees being discharged (Sen. Com. No. 409).)
Introduced
In Committee
First Chamber
In Committee
Second Chamber
Final Decking
Enacted
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000, with certain limitations. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000.
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THE SENATE |
S.B. NO. |
1269 |
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THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025 |
S.D. 1 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
H.D. 2 |
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that geothermal resources can provide stable power and community benefits and is a viable renewable and firm energy resource. In 2024, the legislature appropriated $6,000,000 for an integrated geothermal development plan to be administered by the Hawaii technology development corporation under the department of business, economic development, and tourism. The governor subsequently reduced the appropriation to $3,000,000. Through a partnership with the university of Hawaii, the Hawaii technology development corporation has already begun work on an integrated geothermal development roadmap with the concrete goal of facilitating the development of a utility-scale geothermal power plant on Hawaii island.
The department of business, economic development, and tourism is the appropriate department to guide the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources in the State. Geoscience research absent the commercial lens necessary for strategic development and investment is likely to lead to less effective outcomes for commercial viability and may duplicate existing research or result in a lack of investor confidence. Further development that is not informed by quality and focused research may create additional risk and lead to decreasing future investments.
Hawaii island holds the most promise for the development of a utility-scale geothermal production facility. All geothermal testing performed in the State confirms that the largest and most reliable source of geothermal energy is located on Hawaii island.
The legislature recognizes that the original level of funding and additional funds are needed to allow the Hawaii technology development corporation to continue the geoscience exploration that is currently underway, including developing an overall development plan and extensive community outreach program as well as, where possible, building on previous investigations by the department of Hawaiian home lands and other publicly available reports and exploration data for Hawaii island, either as a result of geothermal resource investigations or byproducts from other exploration and studies, for example, water exploration.
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand.
SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility‑scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand; provided that no funds shall be used for exploratory, test, or production wells within a fifteen-mile radius of an existing geothermal power plant that is currently providing electricity to the grid. No funds from this Act shall be used on projects within a radius of residential areas.
The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of business, economic development, and tourism for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.
Report Title:
DBEDT; Geothermal Resources; Appropriation
Description:
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000, with certain limitations. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD2)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
THE SENATE |
S.B. NO. |
1269 |
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THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025 |
S.D. 1 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
H.D. 1 |
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that geothermal resources can provide stable power and community benefits and is a viable renewable and firm energy resource. In 2024, the legislature appropriated $6,000,000 for an integrated geothermal development plan to be administered by the Hawaii technology development corporation under the department of business, economic development, and tourism. The governor subsequently reduced the appropriation to $3,000,000. Through a partnership with the university of Hawaii, the Hawaii technology development corporation has already begun work on an integrated geothermal development roadmap with the concrete goal of facilitating the development of a utility-scale geothermal power plant on Hawaii island.
The department of business, economic development, and tourism is the appropriate department to guide the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources in the State. Geoscience research absent the commercial lens necessary for strategic development and investment is likely to lead to less effective outcomes for commercial viability and may duplicate existing research or result in a lack of investor confidence. Further development that is not informed by quality and focused research may create additional risk and lead to decreasing future investments.
Hawaii island holds the most promise for the development of a utility-scale geothermal production facility. All geothermal testing performed in the State confirms that the largest and most reliable source of geothermal energy is located on Hawaii island.
The legislature recognizes that the original level of funding and additional funds are needed to allow the Hawaii technology development corporation to continue the geoscience exploration that is currently underway, including developing an overall development plan and extensive community outreach program as well as, where possible, building on previous investigations by the department of Hawaiian home lands and other publicly available reports and exploration data for Hawaii island, either as a result of geothermal resource investigations or byproducts from other exploration and studies, for example, water exploration.
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand.
SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility‑scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand; provided that no funds shall be used for any drilling purposes, including exploratory, test, or production wells, or within a fifteen-mile radius of an existing geothermal power plant that is currently providing electricity to the grid.
The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of business, economic development, and tourism for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 3000.
Report Title:
DBEDT; Geothermal Resources; Appropriation
Description:
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000. Effective 7/1/3000. (HD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
THE SENATE |
S.B. NO. |
1269 |
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THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025 |
S.D. 1 |
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STATE OF HAWAII |
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|
|
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|
|
|
||
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|
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that geothermal resources can provide stable power and community benefits and are a viable alternative to biofuels. In 2024, the legislature appropriated $6,000,000 for an integrated geothermal development plan to be administered by the Hawaii technology development corporation under the department of business, economic development, and tourism. The governor subsequently reduced the appropriation to $3,000,000. Through a partnership with the university of Hawaii, the Hawaii technology development corporation has already begun work on an integrated geothermal development roadmap with the concrete goal of developing the first utility scale 50- to 100-megawatt power station on Hawaii island.
The department of business, economic development, and tourism is the appropriate department to guide the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources in the State. Geoscience research absent the commercial lens necessary for strategic development and investment is likely to lead to less effective outcomes for commercial viability and will either duplicate existing research or result in a lack of investor confidence. Further development that is not informed by quality and focused research can create additional risk and lead to decreasing future investments, including the development of a fully commissioned geothermal power station in the State.
Hawaii island holds the most promise for the development of the State's first utility-scale geothermal production facility. All geothermal testing performed in the State confirms that the largest and most reliable source of geothermal energy is located on Hawaii island. Hawaii island is also the only island that has sufficient agricultural and pastoral land to meet the State's need to achieve food self-sufficiency and security in the future.
The legislature recognizes that restoring the original level of funding and additional moneys are needed to allow the Hawaii technology development corporation to continue the geoscience exploration currently underway, including developing an overall development plan and extensive community outreach program, as well as, where possible, building on previous investigations by the department of Hawaiian home lands and other previous publicly available reports and existing exploration data for Hawaii island, either as a result of geothermal resource investigations or byproducts from other exploration and studies (for example, water exploration).
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand.
SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $ or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility‑scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand.
The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of business, economic development, and tourism for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2050.
Report Title:
DBEDT; Geothermal Resources; Appropriations
Description:
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000. Effective 7/1/2050. (SD1)
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
|
THE SENATE |
S.B. NO. |
1269 |
|
THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2025 |
|
|
|
STATE OF HAWAII |
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|
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|
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|
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||
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A BILL FOR AN ACT
relating to geothermal resources.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. The legislature finds that geothermal resources can provide stable power and community benefits and are a viable alternative to biofuels. In 2024, the legislature appropriated $6,000,000 for an integrated geothermal development plan to be administered by the Hawaii technology development corporation under the department of business, economic development, and tourism. The governor subsequently reduced the appropriation to $3,000,000. Through a partnership with the University of Hawaii, the Hawaii technology development corporation has already begun work on an integrated geothermal development roadmap with the concrete goal of developing the first utility scale 50- to 100-megawatt power station on Hawaii island.
The department of business, economic development and tourism is the appropriate department to guide the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources in the State. Geoscience research absent the commercial lens necessary for strategic development and investment is likely to lead to less effective outcomes for commercial viability and will either duplicate existing research or result in a lack of investor confidence. Further development that is not informed by quality and focused research can create additional risk and lead to decreasing future investments, including the development of a fully commissioned geothermal power station in the State.
Hawaii island holds the most promise for the development of the State's first utility-scale geothermal production facility. All geothermal testing performed in the State confirms that the largest and most reliable source of geothermal energy is located on Hawaii island. Hawaii island is also the only island that has sufficient agricultural and pastoral land to meet the State's need to achieve food self-sufficiency and security in the future.
The legislature recognizes that restoring the original level of funding and additional moneys are needed to allow the Hawaii technology development corporation to continue the geoscience exploration currently underway, including developing an overall development plan and extensive community outreach program, as well as, where possible, building on previous investigations by the department of Hawaiian home lands and other previous publicly available reports and existing exploration data for Hawaii island, either as a result of geothermal resource investigations or byproducts from other exploration and studies (for example, water exploration).
Accordingly, the purpose of this Act is to appropriate funds for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand.
SECTION 2. There is appropriated out of the general revenues of the State of Hawaii the sum of $6,000,000 or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2025-2026 and the same sum or so much thereof as may be necessary for fiscal year 2026-2027 for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand.
The sums appropriated shall be expended by the department of business, economic development, and tourism for the purposes of this Act.
SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect on July 1, 2025.
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INTRODUCED BY: |
_____________________________ |
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Report Title:
DBEDT; Geothermal Resources; Appropriations
Description:
Appropriates funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000.
The summary description of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.
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Date
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Status
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|---|---|
| Mar 20, 2026 | Received notice of all Senate conferees being discharged (Sen. Com. No. 409). |
| Mar 20, 2026 | Senate Conferee(s) discharged. |
| Dec 8, 2025 | Carried over to 2026 Regular Session. |
| Apr 21, 2025 | Received notice of Senate conferees (Sen. Com. No. 851). |
| Apr 21, 2025 | Senate Conferees Appointed: DeCoite Chair; Kim, Inouye Co-Chairs; DeCorte. |
| Apr 8, 2025 | Received notice of disagreement (Sen. Com. No. 774). |
| Apr 8, 2025 | Senate disagrees with House amendments. |
| Apr 8, 2025 | Received from House (Hse. Com. No. 602). |
| Apr 4, 2025 | Passed Third Reading with Representative(s) Amato, Iwamoto, Reyes Oda voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Alcos, Garcia, Matsumoto, Muraoka, Pierick, Shimizu voting no (6) and Representative(s) Cochran, Kapela excused (2). Transmitted to Senate. |
| Apr 4, 2025 | Reported from FIN (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1969), recommending passage on Third Reading. |
| Apr 1, 2025 | The committee on FIN recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes were as follows: 14 Ayes: Representative(s) Yamashita, Takenouchi, Grandinetti, Holt, Hussey, Keohokapu-Lee Loy, Kitagawa, Kusch, Lamosao, Lee, M., Miyake, Morikawa, Templo; Ayes with reservations: Representative(s) Reyes Oda; Noes: none; and 1 Excused: Representative(s) Alcos. |
| Mar 28, 2025 | Bill scheduled to be heard by FIN on Tuesday, 04-01-25 2:00PM in House conference room 308 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Mar 21, 2025 | Report adopted; referred to the committee(s) on FIN as amended in HD 2 with Representative(s) Garcia, Reyes Oda voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Amato, Muraoka, Pierick, Shimizu voting no (4) and Representative(s) Cochran, Garrett, Kapela, Kitagawa, Ward excused (5). |
| Mar 21, 2025 | Reported from CPC (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1501) as amended in HD 2, recommending referral to FIN. |
| Mar 19, 2025 | The committee on CPC recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 6 Ayes: Representative(s) Matayoshi, Chun, Ichiyama, Kong, Lowen, Tam; Ayes with reservations: none; 2 Noes: Representative(s) Iwamoto, Pierick; and 2 Excused: Representative(s) Ilagan, Marten. |
| Mar 14, 2025 | Bill scheduled to be heard by CPC on Wednesday, 03-19-25 2:00PM in House conference room 329 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Mar 14, 2025 | Passed Second Reading as amended in HD 1 and referred to the committee(s) on CPC with none voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Amato, Garcia, Pierick voting no (3) and Representative(s) Cochran, Holt, Iwamoto, Ward excused (4). |
| Mar 14, 2025 | Reported from EEP/ECD (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 1267) as amended in HD 1, recommending passage on Second Reading and referral to CPC. |
| Mar 13, 2025 | The committee on ECD recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 6 Ayes: Representative(s) Ilagan, Tam, Templo, Todd, Matsumoto; Ayes with reservations: Representative(s) Hussey; Noes: none; and 1 Excused: Representative(s) Holt. |
| Mar 13, 2025 | The committee on EEP recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes were as follows: 4 Ayes: Representative(s) Lowen, Perruso, Kahaloa, Kusch; Ayes with reservations: none; Noes: none; and 2 Excused: Representative(s) Quinlan, Ward. |
| Mar 10, 2025 | Bill scheduled to be heard by EEP/ECD on Thursday, 03-13-25 11:00AM in House conference room 325 VIA VIDEOCONFERENCE. |
| Mar 4, 2025 | Referred to EEP/ECD, CPC, FIN, referral sheet 18 |
| Mar 4, 2025 | Pass First Reading |
| Feb 28, 2025 | Received from Senate (Sen. Com. No. 52) in amended form (SD 1). |
| Feb 28, 2025 | Report Adopted; Passed Third Reading. Ayes, 22; Aye(s) with reservations: none. Noes, 1 (Senator(s) Awa). Excused, 2 (Senator(s) Fukunaga, Kidani). Transmitted to House. |
| Feb 27, 2025 | One Day Notice 02-28-25. |
| Feb 27, 2025 | Reported from WAM (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 783) with recommendation of passage on Third Reading. |
| Feb 18, 2025 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes in WAM were as follows: 12 Aye(s): Senator(s) Dela Cruz, Moriwaki, Aquino, Elefante, Hashimoto, Inouye, Kanuha, Kidani, Kim, Lee, C., Wakai, Fevella; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s) DeCoite. |
| Feb 14, 2025 | The committee(s) on WAM will hold a public decision making on 02-18-25 10:01AM; Conference Room 211 & Videoconference. |
| Feb 12, 2025 | Report adopted; Passed Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referred to WAM. |
| Feb 12, 2025 | Reported from EDT (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 394) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM. |
| Feb 4, 2025 | The committee(s) on EDT recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS. The votes in EDT were as follows: 4 Aye(s): Senator(s) DeCoite, Wakai, Fukunaga, Kim; Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 1 No(es): Senator(s) Awa; and 0 Excused: none. |
| Jan 30, 2025 | The committee(s) on EDT has scheduled a public hearing on 02-04-25 1:00PM; Conference Room 229 & Videoconference. |
| Jan 27, 2025 | Referred to EDT, WAM. |
| Jan 23, 2025 | Introduced and passed First Reading. |
| Jan 21, 2025 | Pending Introduction. |
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Date
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Description
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Location
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Votes
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|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apr 4, 2025 | Third Reading | House Floor |
Passed |
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| Apr 1, 2025 | The committee on FIN recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | House Standing Committee on Finance |
Passed |
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| Mar 19, 2025 | The committee on CPC recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce |
Passed |
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| Mar 13, 2025 | The committee on ECD recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Economic Development & Technology |
Passed |
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| Mar 13, 2025 | The committee on EEP recommend that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | House Standing Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection |
Passed |
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| Feb 28, 2025 | Third Reading | Senate Floor |
Passed |
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| Feb 18, 2025 | The committee(s) on WAM recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED | Senate Standing Committee on Ways and Means |
Passed |
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| Feb 4, 2025 | The committee(s) on EDT recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS | Senate Standing Committee on Economic Development and Tourism |
Passed |
This list shows positions taken on this bill by organizations on the date displayed, which is linked to the original source.
Positions by individuals are not included.
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Organization
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Position
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Date
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|---|---|---|
| Coalition Earth | ** Support | |
| County of Hawaiʻi (Office of the Mayor) | *** Support | Feb 4, 2025 |
| Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism | ** Support | |
| Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) | *** Support | Mar 13, 2025 |
| Department of Hawaiian Home Lands | ** Support | |
| Energy Justice Network | *** Against | Apr 1, 2025 |
| Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party | *** Against | Apr 1, 2025 |
| Green Party Hawai’i | *** Against | Mar 19, 2025 |
| Halau I Ka Wēkiu | *** Support | Feb 4, 2025 |
| Hawaiian Electric | ** Support | |
| Hawaiian Homes Commission | *** Support | Apr 1, 2025 |
| Hawaiʻi County Council | *** Support | Feb 18, 2025 |
| Hulu Mamo Hawaiian Civic Club | *** Against | Mar 19, 2025 |
| Innovations Development Group | ** Support | |
| Komike O Kupuna Ainahoopulapula | ** Support | |
| Komike O Kūpuna ‘Ainahoopulapula (KOKA) | *** Support | Feb 4, 2025 |
| La’akea permaculture farm | *** Against | Mar 19, 2025 |
| Lepo ʻUla (South Kaʻū Rural Enterprise & Innovation Hive) | *** Support | Feb 18, 2025 |
| Lepo ʻUla South Kaʻū Rural Enterprise & Innovation Hive | ** Support | |
| Lepo ʻUla South Kaʻū Rural Enterprise & Innovation Hive | ** Support | |
| Lepo ‘Ula South Ka‘ū Rural Enterprise & Innovation Hive | *** Support | Apr 1, 2025 |
| Life of the Land | ** Support | |
| Mala Hanai Pua LLC | *** Against | Mar 19, 2025 |
| Malu 'Aina Center for Non-violent Education & Action | *** Against | Mar 19, 2025 |
| Office of Representative Kaiali‘i Kahele (U.S. Congress) | *** Support | Feb 4, 2025 |
| Office of the Mayor of the County of Hawaii | ** Support | |
| Pele Defense Fund | *** Against | Apr 1, 2025 |
| Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Hawaii | *** Against | Apr 1, 2025 |
| Sustainable Energy Hawai‘i | *** Support | Mar 13, 2025 |
| Ulupono Initiative | ** Support | |
| Wahine o Kohala | *** Against | Mar 19, 2025 |
| Waikā Consulting, LLC | *** Support | Apr 1, 2025 |
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1969
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2025
RE: S.B. No. 1269
S.D. 1
H.D. 2
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2025
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Finance, to which was referred S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, H.D. 2, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES,"
begs leave to report as follows:
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands; Life of the Land; Hawaiian Electric; Lepo ʻUla South Kaʻū Rural Enterprise & Innovation Hive; Coalition Earth; and seven individuals. Your Committee received testimony in opposition to this measure from the Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party; Energy Justice Network; Students for Justice in Palestine at the University of Hawaii; Pele Defense Fund; and three individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Waikā Consulting, LLC; Sustainable Energy Hawaiʻi; Ulupono Initiative; and two individuals.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Finance that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, H.D. 2, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Finance,
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____________________________ KYLE T. YAMASHITA, Chair |
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STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1501
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2025
RE: S.B. No. 1269
S.D. 1
H.D. 2
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2025
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce, to which was referred S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, H.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose of this measure is to appropriate funds for the continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand, with certain limitations.
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from Ulupono Initiative; Waika Consulting; Innovations Development Group; Coalition Earth; Hawaiian Electric; and eight individuals. Your Committee received testimony in opposition to this measure from the Hulu Mamo Hawaiian Civic Club; Energy Justice Network; Environmental Caucus of the Democratic Party of Hawaiʻi; Green Party Hawaiʻi; Mala Hanai Pua LLC; Malu ʻAina Center for Non-violent Education & Action; Laʻakea Permaculture Farm; and numerous individuals. Your Committee received comments on this measure from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Sustainable Energy Hawaiʻi; and one individual.
Your Committee finds that geothermal energy is heat that was generated during the planet's formation, stored in rocks and fluids, and brought as steam to the Earth's surface using deep wells. The steam drives turbines to generate electricity. Your Committee further finds that geothermal has been identified as a near-term and mid-term decarbonization opportunity for Hawaii. Geothermal energy thus has the potential to play an extremely significant role in meeting the State's energy objectives of reliability, affordability, and diversification. Because geothermal exploration and identification require significant investment of upfront capital, underlying research to confirm the viability of geothermal is needed.
Your Committee further finds that the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation received an appropriation of $3,000,000 for the 2024-2025 Fiscal Year, and, through its partnership with the University of Hawaii, has already begun work on an integrated geothermal development roadmap with the concrete goal of facilitating the development of a utility-scale geothermal power plant. This measure provides further necessary funding for the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation to continue its work.
Your Committee has amended this measure by:
(1) Amending the restriction on the usage of funds such that funds shall not be used for exploratory, test, or production wells within a fifteen-mile radius of an existing geothermal power plant that is currently providing electricity to the grid; and
(2) Specifying that funds shall not be used on projects within an unspecified radius of residential areas.
Your Committee respectfully requests your Committee on Finance, should it deliberate on this measure, to consider an appropriation amount of $3,000,000.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, H.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommends that it be referred to your Committee on Finance in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, H.D. 2.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce,
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____________________________ SCOT Z. MATAYOSHI, Chair |
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STAND. COM. REP. NO. 1267
Honolulu, Hawaii
, 2025
RE: S.B. No. 1269
S.D. 1
H.D. 1
Honorable Nadine K. Nakamura
Speaker, House of Representatives
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2025
State of Hawaii
Madame:
Your Committees on Energy & Environmental Protection and Economic Development & Technology, to which was referred S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES,"
beg leave to report as follows:
Your Committees received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Ulupono Initiative; Life of the Land; Hawaiian Electric; Coalition Earth; Waikā Consulting, LLC; Innovations Development Group; and seven individuals. Your Committees received testimony in opposition to this measure from Hulu Mamo Hawaiian Civic Club and numerous individuals. Your Committees received comments on this measure from Sustainable Energy Hawaiʻi and three individuals.
Your Committees find that geothermal energy presents a stable and viable alternative to biofuels, with significant potential for more utility-scale development on Hawaii island. Additional funding is necessary to support ongoing geothermal exploration, commercial viability assessments, and community outreach to ensure strategic and effective geothermal resource development. This measure advances geothermal energy exploration and facilitates large-scale geothermal power station development.
Your Committees have amended this measure by:
(1) Specifying that funds shall not be used for drilling purposes, including exploratory, test, or production wells, or within a fifteen-mile radius of an existing geothermal power plant that is currently providing electricity to the grid;
(2) Changing the effective date to July 1, 3000, to encourage further discussion; and
(3) Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity, consistency, and style.
Your Committees respectfully request your Committee on Finance, should it deliberate on this measure, to consider an appropriation amount of $6,000,000.
As affirmed by the records of votes of the members of your Committees on Energy & Environmental Protection and Economic Development & Technology that are attached to this report, your Committees are in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, as amended herein, and recommend that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, H.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committees on Energy & Environmental Protection and Economic Development & Technology,
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____________________________ GREGGOR ILAGAN, Chair |
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____________________________ NICOLE E. LOWEN, Chair |
STAND. COM. REP. NO. 783
Honolulu, Hawaii
RE: S.B. No. 1269
S.D. 1
Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi
President of the Senate
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2025
State of Hawaii
Sir:
Your Committee on Ways and Means, to which was referred S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose and intent of this measure is to appropriate moneys to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for the continued identification and exploration of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal energy production in counties with a population of less than three hundred thousand.
Your Committee received written comments in support of this measure from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Hawaiian Electric; Innovations Development Group; Lepo Ula; Ulupono Initiative; Waika; and numerous individuals.
Your Committee finds that geothermal resources can provide stable power and community benefits as a viable alternative to biofuels. Your Committee further finds that through legislative appropriations, the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation has begun work on an integrated geothermal development roadmap with the goal of developing the first utility-scale 50- to 100-megawatt power station on Hawaii Island. Your Committee recognizes that further appropriations will support the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation as it continues its geothermal exploration.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Ways and Means that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, and recommends that it pass Third Reading.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Ways and Means,
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________________________________ DONOVAN M. DELA CRUZ, Chair |
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STAND. COM. REP. NO. 394
Honolulu, Hawaii
RE: S.B. No. 1269
S.D. 1
Honorable Ronald D. Kouchi
President of the Senate
Thirty-Third State Legislature
Regular Session of 2025
State of Hawaii
Sir:
Your Committee on Economic Development and Tourism, to which was referred S.B. No. 1269 entitled:
"A BILL FOR AN ACT RELATING TO GEOTHERMAL RESOURCES,"
begs leave to report as follows:
The purpose and intent of this measure is to appropriate funds to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for continued exploration and identification of geothermal resources and commercial viability for utility-scale geothermal production in counties with a population of less than 300,000.
Your Committee received testimony in support of this measure from the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism; Office of the Mayor of the County of Hawaii; one member of the Hawaiʻi County Council, Innovations Development Group; Waikā Consulting; Hawaiian Electric; Lepo ʻUla South Kaʻū Rural Enterprise & Innovation Hive; Komike O Kupuna Ainahoopulapula; and eleven individuals.
Your Committee received testimony in opposition to this measure from one individual.
Your Committee finds that the State has shown a dedication towards energy self-sufficiency with a prioritization on renewable energy sources. As the State works to become energy independent, geothermal resources that can provide stable power and community benefits, are a viable alternative to biofuels. The Hawaii Technology Development Corporation, in partnership with the University of Hawaii, were mandated by the Legislature to develop an integrated geothermal development plan with the concrete goal of developing the first utility power station on Hawaii island. However, while the Legislature appropriated $6,000,00 for this critical endeavor in 2024, the Governor reduced its budget to $3,000,000. This measure will provide a necessary framework for the adequate expansion of this geothermal production development by appropriating additional funds.
Your Committee notes the concerns raised during the hearing on this measure regarding the multiple measures relating to geothermal energy introduced in both houses of the Legislature during this legislative session. Accordingly, your Committee requests that the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism consult with subsequent Committees to which this measure is referred to examine the measures and determine a more comprehensive, effective legislation allowing the State to efficiently and successfully utilize geothermal energy as an alternative to biofuel.
Your Committee has amended this measure by:
(1) Changing the appropriation to an unspecified amount;
(2) Inserting an effective date of July 1, 2050, to encourage further discussion; and
(3) Making technical, nonsubstantive amendments for the purposes of clarity and consistency.
Your Committee notes that this measure, as amended, contains an unspecified appropriation amount. Should your Committee on Ways and Means choose to deliberate on this measure, your Committee respectfully requests that it consider an appropriation amount of $6,000,000.
As affirmed by the record of votes of the members of your Committee on Economic Development and Tourism that is attached to this report, your Committee is in accord with the intent and purpose of S.B. No. 1269, as amended herein, and recommends that it pass Second Reading in the form attached hereto as S.B. No. 1269, S.D. 1, and be referred to your Committee on Ways and Means.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of the members of the Committee on Economic Development and Tourism,
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________________________________ LYNN DECOITE, Chair |
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Date
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Testimony PDF
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| Apr 1, 2025 | SB1269_HD2_TESTIMONY_FIN_04-01-25_.PDF |
| Mar 19, 2025 | SB1269_HD1_TESTIMONY_CPC_03-19-25_.PDF |
| Mar 13, 2025 | SB1269_SD1_TESTIMONY_EEP-ECD_03-13-25_.PDF |
| Feb 18, 2025 | SB1269_SD1_TESTIMONY_WAM_02-18-25_.PDF |
| Feb 4, 2025 | SB1269_TESTIMONY_EDT_02-04-25_.PDF |
Discussed in Hearing
12MIN
House Standing Committee on Finance
32MIN
House Standing Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce
17MIN
House Standing Committee on Energy & Environmental Protection
Bill Author
Bill Co-Author(s):