HI SCR99

Requests the County of Hawaii establish a working group to analyze the potential for geothermal energy as the primary energy source to meet baseload electricity demand on the Big Island

Notes Hawaii is the third most oil-dependent state in the nation with 90 percent of energy from imported oil, and references the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative goal of 70 percent renewable energy by 2030

Identifies geothermal as a steady, reliable renewable energy source superior to intermittent solar and wind power

Finds that Big Island's abundant geothermal resources could reduce energy costs for residents, advance state energy independence, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions

Received support from the Mayor of Hawaii County, Hawaiian Electric Light Company, Hawaii County Council, and multiple business and labor organizations