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HB 1984

RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Luke Evslin and 11 co-sponsors

Hawaii renewable energy bill HB 1984 advanced through committee with 7-0 support, now undergoing additional legislative review with potential economic and grid modernization implications.

Passed Third Reading with Representative(s) Garcia, Iwamoto voting aye with reservations; Representative(s) Pierick voting no (1) and none excused (0). Transmitted to Senate.
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Bill Summary · HB 1984

Legislative bill overview

HB 1984 is a Hawaii renewable energy bill introduced by Representatives Evslin, Lowen, Kapela, Kila, and Matsumoto. The bill recently passed the Energy, Environmental Protection (EEP) committee with amendments on February 5, 2026, with unanimous support (7-0 vote). It is currently proceeding through additional committee reviews (Water, Agriculture & Land; and Consumer Protection & Commerce).

Why this is important

Hawaii has among the highest electricity costs in the nation and is heavily dependent on imported fossil fuels, making renewable energy expansion critical for both economic and environmental sustainability. This legislation directly addresses the state's renewable energy goals and will likely impact utility rates, grid reliability, and Hawaii's carbon reduction targets.

Potential points of contention

  • Specific mechanisms unclear: The bill text is not provided, making it impossible to identify whether it includes mandates on utilities, timelines, ratepayer costs, or land use that could generate controversy
  • Stakeholder impacts: Depending on provisions, the bill may affect utility companies, renewable energy developers, agricultural interests, or consumers differently
  • Implementation details: Without seeing the amendments approved by EEP, it's unclear whether cost-sharing mechanisms, interconnection standards, or permitting timelines address industry concerns

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

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