HI HCR87

Request the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to assess the feasibility and potential merits and benefits of the energy cooperative model for Hawaii Island.

Energy cooperative model would provide local, democratic control over electric utility infrastructure through customer-owned nonprofit organization governed by democratically elected board of directors.

Potential benefits include lower electricity costs through nonprofit status, greater energy independence and sustainability, community-based priorities, and emphasis on island-produced fuels for generation and transportation.

Department must report findings and recommendations to the Legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the Regular Session of 2017.

Resolution acknowledges Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative's incorporation under chapter 421C, Hawaii Revised Statutes, and Act 57, Session Laws of Hawaii 2013, which defined the electric cooperative structure.