HI SB2292

Prohibits the Department of Health from issuing permits for new coal-burning sources or expansions of existing sources that would increase coal consumption for energy needs.

Restricts the Public Utilities Commission from approving new, modified, or renewed power purchase agreements for coal-burning power plants, with a limited exception allowing new coal plants only if they replace a less-efficient fossil fuel plant of equal or greater capacity.

Prevents the Public Utilities Commission from approving modified or renewed agreements that would increase coal consumption compared to previous agreements.

Identifies coal as incompatible with Hawaii's clean and sustainable energy future due to toxic mercury emissions, adverse air quality impacts, and high greenhouse gas emissions.

Aligns with the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative's commitment that new coal-based generation would not be approved and opposition to adding coal-based generation in the state.