HI SB188

Prohibits state and county agencies from permitting new fossil fuel electricity-generating facilities exceeding 2.0 megawatts or expansions exceeding 2.0 megawatts of existing facilities beginning July 1, 2011, unless the electric utility demonstrates compliance with Hawaii's renewable energy portfolio standards (part V of chapter 269).

Prevents electric utility companies from purchasing electricity from fossil fuel facilities built after December 31, 2011, unless the utility demonstrates present and projected future compliance with the state's renewable energy portfolio standards.

Exempts retrofitting or replacement of existing electricity-generating units undertaken to improve operational efficiency or reduce greenhouse gas emissions from the restrictions.

Allows the governor to suspend these restrictions without a public hearing if an imminent peril to public health and safety is determined, but requires the Public Utilities Commission to hold a hearing within 60 days on any utility proposal to construct or expand a facility.

Effective date: July 1, 2011.