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HCR 180

URGING THE DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE AND BIOSECURITY TO EXPLORE AND PURSUE OPPORTUNITIES TO COLOCATE COMMUNITY-BASED RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATING PROJECTS WITH AGRICULTURAL RESERVOIRS AND IRRIGATION WATER INFRASTRUCTURE.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Mahina Poepoe

Hawaii resolution urges agriculture agencies to explore colocating community renewable energy projects on irrigation reservoirs and water infrastructure to advance clean energy and dual land use.

The committee(s) on AEN has scheduled a public hearing on 04-17-26 3:05PM; Conference Room 224 & Videoconference.
#departmentofagricultureandbiosecurity #renewableenergy
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Bill Summary · HCR 180

Legislative bill overview

HCR 180 is a non-binding resolution urging Hawaii's Department of Agriculture and Department of Land and Natural Resources (Biosecurity) to explore colocating community-based renewable energy projects with existing agricultural reservoirs and irrigation infrastructure. The resolution seeks to leverage existing water infrastructure sites for solar, wind, or other renewable energy generation to serve dual purposes.

Why is this important

Hawaii has high electricity costs and renewable energy goals, while also managing agricultural water systems that cover substantial land areas. Colocating renewable energy with irrigation infrastructure could generate clean power, reduce energy costs for agricultural operations, and maximize use of existing developed sites without requiring additional land conversion. This represents a potential win-win for agricultural sustainability and clean energy transition.

Potential points of contention

  • Water system impacts: Energy infrastructure on reservoirs and canals could interfere with water quality monitoring, maintenance access, or irrigation operations; floating solar arrays may affect evaporation rates or water temperature.
  • Agricultural priority: Farmers may worry that prioritizing renewable energy development could subordinate irrigation reliability or reduce water availability if projects require infrastructure modifications.
  • Cost allocation: Unclear how project costs would be funded and whether agricultural users would bear expenses for modifications to existing systems, or if renewable energy revenue would offset agricultural water fees.
  • Environmental effects: Renewable installations could impact wildlife habitats around water infrastructure and adjacent agricultural lands; environmental review requirements may not be specified.

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

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