HI HB1517

Changes the Public Utilities Commission's consideration of renewable energy and energy efficiency from discretionary ("may") to mandatory ("shall").

Requires the Commission to explicitly consider the consequences of fossil fuel reliance, including price and supply volatility, increased import costs, and greenhouse gas emissions when evaluating utility system capital improvements and operations.

Allows the Commission to determine that higher short-term or direct costs of alternative energy sources are reasonable when compared to fossil fuel costs, considering the long-term consequences of fossil fuel dependence.

Takes effect on July 1, 2020.