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Bill Summary · HB 349

Legislative bill overview

HB 349 is a Hawaii renewable energy bill introduced by four House members that has been referred to the Energy, Environmental Protection, and Finance committees. The bill was deferred in early 2025 and subsequently carried over to the 2026 legislative session, meaning its specific provisions have not yet advanced to substantive consideration.

Why is this important

Hawaii has among the highest electricity rates in the nation and has committed to 100% clean energy by 2045, making renewable energy legislation critically important to the state's energy future and affordability. However, without access to the bill's actual text, the specific mechanisms—whether it addresses solar incentives, grid modernization, utility regulations, or other renewable energy matters—cannot be assessed for real-world impact.

Potential points of contention

  • Lack of transparency: The bill summary provided contains no details about what the legislation actually proposes, making public evaluation impossible
  • Deferred status without explanation: The EEP committee's deferral recommendation provides no stated rationale for why the measure was not advanced
  • Financing questions: Renewable energy legislation often faces contention over costs, rate impacts, and whether implementation is fiscally sustainable for ratepayers

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

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