House debate probes LNG import safeguards and risks to ratepayers and climate goals

Members of the House debated a bill that would require review and safeguards if liquefied natural gas (LNG) imports or LNG-related infrastructure are considered for the state’s power grid.

Representative Lowen, speaking in support, said the bill protects ratepayers and helps ensure any LNG imports or infrastructure decisions align with the state's clean-energy goals and do not saddle neighbor islands or ratepayers with stranded costs. "If you're concerned about electricity rates in the state and if you support LNG, you should support this bill because it ensures that all the things that you've been led to believe about the benefits of bringing LNG to the state actually come to bear," Lowen said.

Representative Hassy read into the record testimony from experts and groups arguing methane marketed as natural gas can be a strong near-term climate pollutant and cited a reported 2024 agreement between the governor's administration and a Japanese firm involving approximately $2,000,000,000 in proposed grid upgrades and energy investments that included LNG-related components.

Representative Shimizu expressed concern but later shifted from opposition to "yes, with reservations" after clarification of amendments. The transcript records debate and statements of support and opposition but does not record final passage or votes for this bill in the provided segments.

Lawmakers asked that written testimony and comments be entered into the journal for the record.