Bills on our radar
Since the legislature opened last week, we have been doing our best to monitor the flood of energy bills coming in. Some are encouraging on the energy equity and justice front and will send good energy (cheekiness intended) as they make it through the legislative hurdles. While we continue to compile a list of top bills we will track this session, here are our a list of our priorities to ensure a just transition to an equitable clean energy economy:
Energy justice and equity: An equitable energy system must include prioritizing increased access to renewable technology, such as lowering barriers and increasing incentives for income-constrained households and those most vulnerable to climate impacts. We hope to support initiatives that aim to provide data analysis for those most vulnerable to climate impacts and energy burdens so their needs may be adequately addressed.. This also includes being diligent about thinking through adverse impacts of climate legislation on Hawaiʻi’s vital ecological integrity, low-income and working class households and Kānaka Maoli communities and cultural rights. When our islands are powered by a just energy economy, we all benefit.
Energy efficiency and data transparency: Addressing Hawaiʻi’s high energy demands through minimum efficiency standards and targeted approaches for high consumers are key in building a climate resilient future. We hope to advance bills that prioritize an increase in efficiency standards for infrastructure, buildings and appliances as well as the conservation of our precious resources such as water. In addition, data, as we know, is crucial to making informed decisions. Having access to the right data on energy use and waste will help increase efficiency, cut costs, and will inform planning and policies for future commercial and residential development, to foster greater sustainability in the public and private sector.
Zero carbon investments: Aligned with our goals in energy efficiency, we want to advocate for a robust effort to a zero (or net negative) carbon future. From the expansion of rooftop solar and EV-ready commercial and residential building requirements, to zero emissions public transportation and state EV rebates, there are many opportunities to promote a meaningful transition to a carbon-free future.
Circular economy and dignified clean energy jobs: We all know that Hawaiʻi is too dependent on outside sources for food, goods, and energy which has a drastic impact on our carbon footprint and ever-increasing cost of living. There needs to be a radical shift in localizing our economy to be not only more affordable but also climate resilient. We need greater planning and funding to expand education, training and certification are needed to develop a local skilled workforce with living-wage jobs throughout the full spectrum of a new, localized renewable energy economy . We also plan to look at expansive ways to reduce imports through supporting circular and regenerative models for our food, product manufacturing, and waste.