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Bill

SB 1338

RELATING TO LONG DURATION CLEAN ENERGY STORAGE.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ron Kouchi

Hawaii establishes regulatory frameworks and incentives for long-duration energy storage systems to support renewable integration and achieve 100% clean energy goals.

Reported from EIG/EDT (Stand. Com. Rep. No. 539) with recommendation of passage on Second Reading, as amended (SD 1) and referral to WAM.
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Bill Summary · SB 1338

Legislative bill overview

SB 1338 establishes regulatory frameworks and incentives for long-duration energy storage systems in Hawaii, which can store power for extended periods (typically 8+ hours). This legislation aims to support Hawaii's transition away from fossil fuels by enabling the integration of renewable energy sources like solar and wind that generate power intermittently.

Why is this important

Hawaii has aggressive renewable energy targets (100% clean energy by 2045) and relies heavily on imported fossil fuels, making energy storage critical infrastructure. Long-duration storage allows the state to balance daily and seasonal renewable generation fluctuations, reducing dependence on diesel generators and stabilizing grid costs. Without adequate storage solutions, achieving decarbonization goals becomes significantly more expensive and technically challenging.

Potential points of contention

  • Technology selection and costs: The bill may favor certain storage technologies (batteries, compressed air, thermal storage) over others, potentially disadvantaging emerging solutions or creating barriers to innovation
  • Ratepayer impact: Storage infrastructure requires substantial capital investment that could increase electricity rates for consumers if cost-recovery mechanisms are not carefully structured
  • Environmental tradeoffs: Large-scale storage projects may require significant land use, water resources, or environmental modifications that could conflict with conservation priorities or community interests

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

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