HI SB3044

Establishes a transitional energy working group administratively placed within the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism to develop renewable energy strategies for Hawaii.

Director of DBEDT serves as chair; membership includes transportation stakeholders selected by the director, the director of transportation as ex officio member, and a representative from the Blue Planet Foundation.

Working group must address electricity curtailment and peak shaving, solar energy storage systems, eliminating petroleum fuel for ground transportation, and achieving 100% renewable portfolio standards by December 31, 2045.

Requires the department of transportation to develop a plan and timetable for converting its vehicle fleet to alternative energy, with consideration of cost-benefit analysis and infrastructure requirements.

Working group shall submit preliminary report by January 15, 2017, and final report by January 15, 2018, then cease to exist the day after filing the final report; effective July 1, 2016.