HI SCR29

Expresses Legislature's recognition of Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative's organizational efforts to establish a cooperative ownership model for electric utility service on Hawaii Island.

Requests the Public Utilities Commission to assess the feasibility of approving an energy cooperative model for Hawaii Island.

Identifies potential benefits of cooperative ownership including local democratic control, community-based priorities, potentially lower electricity costs through tax-exempt status, improved energy independence and sustainability, and development of island-produced fuels.

Defines an electric cooperative under Hawaii law as a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative association formed under Chapter 421C, Hawaii Revised Statutes, with a democratically elected board of directors.

Directs certified copies of the resolution be transmitted to the Public Utilities Commission Chair, Mayor of the County of Hawaii, and the Hawaii Island Energy Cooperative.