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SCR 172

REQUESTING THE PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION TO CONDUCT A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS ON THE BEST PATHS TO MAXIMIZE COST REDUCTION AND MINIMIZE FINANCIAL RISK TO HAWAII RESIDENTS WHILE MEETING STATE GOALS.

2026 Regular Session

Hawaii’s PUC should conduct two independent analyses through 2055 to identify cost-reducing, low-risk energy pathways that meet state goals and inform potential legislation.

Certified copies of resolutions sent, 05-12-26.
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Bill Summary · SCR 172

Summary of SCR 172 (2026) – Hawaii

Purpose and Intent

  • SCR 172 requests the Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) to conduct an objective, independent analysis to identify the best paths for maximizing cost reduction and minimizing financial risk to Hawaii residents in energy while meeting the state’s goals.
  • The resolution emphasizes reducing Hawaii’s dependence on imported fuels, avoiding potential large future costs or savings locked in by near-term decisions, and ensuring planning reflects the public interest rather than stakeholder-advantaged outcomes.

Key Provisions and Requirements

  • Independent Analyses: The PUC must contract with experts to develop two separate, independent analyses evaluating energy pathways. The goal is thorough, unbiased evaluation of options.
  • Scope of Analysis: Analyses should consider best potential paths from now through 2055, including costs and savings that residents would bear beyond the 2045 renewable energy mandate.
  • Incorporation of New Technologies and Practices: Analyses should incorporate the latest strategies, technologies, innovations, and options being developed or implemented in Hawaii and other jurisdictions that have demonstrated cost reductions or reliability benefits.
  • Preliminary and Final Reports:
    • A preliminary report with findings and recommendations (including any proposed legislation) must be submitted to the Legislature no later than 30 days before the 2027 Regular Session convenes.
    • A final report with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation must be submitted no later than 30 days before the 2028 Regular Session convenes.
  • Authority and Transmission of Information: Copies of the resolution will be transmitted to the Governor, the Executive Officer of the PUC, and the Chief Energy Officer.

Who/What Would Be Affected

  • Public Utilities Commission (PUC): Primary agency responsible for conducting the analyses, contracting with subject-matter experts, and issuing reports.
  • Energy Policy Stakeholders: State agencies (e.g., Hawaii State Energy Office) and utility planners would be informed by the analyses and potential recommended legislation.
  • Hawaii Residents: The analyses aim to identify pathways that reduce electricity costs and financial risk for consumers, while meeting state energy goals.
  • Potential Legislation: The final report may include proposed legislative measures to implement preferred pathways.

Background and Context (as presented in the bill)

  • Hawaii’s reliance on imported fossil fuels is cited as a driver of cost volatility and economic leakage.
  • The bill references past state actions and debates on LNG and imported fuels, energy efficiency, and renewable energy goals (e.g., 2045 100% renewable energy mandate).
  • It notes concerns about how stakeholder-driven plans may be biased or constrained and seeks independent, rigorous evaluation to inform decisions that could lock in significant costs or savings.
  • The resolution aligns with ongoing discussions about improving grid reliability, cost stability, and energy security amid global energy price volatility.

Procedural Timeline

  • Preliminary Report: Due no later than 30 days before the 2027 Regular Session convenes.
  • Final Report: Due no later than 30 days before the 2028 Regular Session convenes.
  • The resolution has passed various legislative steps and was transmitted between chambers in April 2026.

Practical Implications

  • The SCR 172 signals legislative desire for rigorous, impartial cost-benefit analyses of Hawaii’s energy future through 2055.
  • If the PUC’s analyses identify preferable pathways (e.g., advanced renewables, storage, energy efficiency, or transition strategies), those findings could inform subsequent legislation or regulatory decisions.
  • The focus on minimizing financial risk and maximizing cost reductions aims to shield households from volatile energy prices while maintaining progress toward state energy sustainability goals.

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

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