HI SCR161

County of Hawaii is requested to establish an Energy Preservation and Development Policy to guide the expansion of geothermal energy use in the county.

County of Hawaii is requested to grant the Public Utilities Commission authority to publicly review and comment on all contracts, agreements, and policies concerning geothermal energy expansion, reconfiguration, or use.

County of Hawaii must submit written findings and policy recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days before the start of the 2012 Regular Session.

Resolution supports geothermal energy development to help Hawaii meet its goal of 70 percent renewable energy by 2030, citing geothermal as more reliable than solar or wind power.

Certified copies to be transmitted to the Governor, Board of Land and Natural Resources, Director of Business Economic Development and Tourism, Office of Hawaiian Affairs, Hawaii County Mayor, and other stakeholder organizations.