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Committee passes renewable energy bill HB 338 HD1 after stakeholder testimony
Summary
HB 338 HD1, a renewable energy measure, was passed by the House Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce after testimony from energy and labor stakeholders; the committee recorded no dissenting votes and adopted the measure as presented.
The House Committee on Consumer Protection & Commerce on Feb. 13 passed HB 338 HD1, a bill related to renewable energy, after receiving written testimony and spoken comments from energy regulators, the consumer advocate and industry representatives.
The committee heard comments from the Division of Consumer Advocacy, which provided written testimony and offered comments. The Hawaii State Energy Office and the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) both testified in support of the measure. Hawaiian Electric’s resource-procurement representative, Rebecca Daya of Matsushima, submitted written comments. Labor groups and clean-energy advocates including IBW Local 1260, Ulupono Initiative and Ameresco provided support and urged amendments to strengthen labor provisions and other considerations.
Why it matters: Testimony from regulators and utilities focused on implementation details and ensuring the PUC and consumer protections are addressed. Labor groups requested stronger language on labor standards in the bill.
Committee action and vote: The committee adopted the chair’s recommendation to pass HB 338 HD1 unamended; the committee report will reflect the measure as passed. The roll call noted the excused absence of Representative Pierrick and recorded no no votes or reservations.
Ending: With broad support from energy agencies and businesses, HB 338 HD1 proceeds from committee with the committee recommending passage without amendment. Further implementation details or suggested amendments raised in testimony may be taken up in subsequent committee reports.
