HI HR173

Urges the Governor to explore foreign direct investments from the Republic of Korea for deployment of renewable-energy technologies, including waste-to-energy systems developed by Korean companies.

Encourages the State of Hawaii to maintain and foster sister-state relationships with jurisdictions of the Republic of Korea.

Encourages the Governor to promote and facilitate international trade, investment, manufacturing, and exports by Korean companies through Hawaii Free Trade Zone No. 9 and other state assets.

Cites Hawaii's high electricity costs, dependence on imported fossil fuels, and near-capacity landfill space as rationale for pursuing Korean renewable-energy partnerships.

Directs certified copies of the resolution to be transmitted to the Governor and the Director of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism.