HI HB507

Creates an 11-member task force attached to the Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs to study removing obstacles to alternative or renewable energy systems on state historic buildings.

Task force membership includes representatives from Historic Hawaii Foundation, American Institute of Architects, University of Hawaii Sea Grant and College of Engineering, Hawaiian Electric Company, alternative energy providers, Blue Planet Foundation, Public Utilities Commission, and Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism.

Task force shall determine what is necessary to permit installation of solar or wind devices on state historic building structures, grounds, or adjacent properties to generate power for the historic buildings.

Task force shall recommend changes to state tax code to allow properties with renewable energy devices to sell excess energy to adjacent historic buildings at below-market rates and claim the difference as a tax-deductible charitable contribution.

Task force must submit initial findings and recommendations by twenty days prior to the 2010 legislative session and a final report by twenty days prior to the 2011 legislative session.