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GM 1292

Informing the Legislature that on June 6, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1220 SD2 HD1 CD1 (ACT 192).

2025 Regular Session

Act 192 establishes a renewable gas tariff in Hawaii, allowing consumers to choose renewable gas, promoting energy independence and supporting environmental goals.

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Bill Summary · GM 1292

Summary of GM 1292 - Informing the Legislature of Act 192

Bill Number: GM 1292
Title: Informing the Legislature that on June 6, 2025, the Governor signed the following bill into law: SB1220 SD2 HD1 CD1 (ACT 192)
Status: Received
Introduced: June 06, 2025
Classification: Proclamation
Subject: Act 192

Purpose and Intent

GM 1292 serves as a formal notification to the legislature that the Governor of Hawaii, Josh Green, M.D., signed into law Senate Bill 1220, which is now designated as Act 192. The primary purpose of Act 192 is to establish a renewable gas tariff in Hawaii, aimed at promoting the use of renewable energy resources and reducing the state's dependence on imported petroleum.

Key Provisions of Act 192

  1. Establishment of Renewable Gas Tariff:

    • Gas utility companies in Hawaii are required to file a proposed initial renewable gas tariff with the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) by August 31, 2025.
    • The PUC must establish an initial or revised renewable gas tariff within nine months of receiving a completed application, provided the tariff is deemed just, reasonable, and in the public interest.
  2. Regulatory Framework:

    • The tariff must not increase rates for other customers.
    • The renewable gas tariff will be based on customers' net therm usage, which is the amount of gas consumed during a monthly billing period.
  3. Definitions:

    • Renewable Gas: Gas produced from non-petroleum feedstock, as defined by the PUC.
    • Renewable Gas Tariff: A tariff allowing customers to voluntarily purchase renewable gas from a gas utility.
  4. Consumer Advocate Role:

    • The consumer advocate can object to the sufficiency of any application within 21 days of its filing, and the PUC will determine the merit of such objections.

Impact of the Legislation

  • Environmental Goals: The establishment of a renewable gas tariff is expected to support Hawaii's environmental and climate resilience objectives by promoting the use of renewable energy.
  • Consumer Choice: Customers will have the option to choose renewable gas, aligning with the preferences of environmentally and socially conscious consumers.
  • Economic Stability: By reducing reliance on imported petroleum, the legislation aims to minimize disruptions caused by price fluctuations in the energy market.

Procedural Aspects

  • The bill was signed into law on June 6, 2025, and the provisions will take effect upon approval.
  • The timeline for implementation includes a deadline for gas utilities to submit their proposed tariffs and a structured review process by the PUC.

Conclusion

GM 1292 is a significant legislative action that formalizes the establishment of a renewable gas tariff in Hawaii through Act 192. This initiative is designed to enhance the state's energy independence, promote renewable energy usage, and provide consumers with more choices in their energy sources.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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