H.B. 1543 Summary

• Requires the University of Hawaii community colleges to establish energy systems and technology training courses for county employees involved in permitting, inspecting, licensing, and approving renewable energy and distributed electricity projects.

• Course content shall include innovations in energy systems, compliance with building and fire codes, and other standards relevant to renewable energy systems and energy storage technology.

• Mandates creation of a stakeholder committee including industry representatives from solar and energy storage providers and county representatives to guide training development, identify necessary equipment, and promote participation.

• University of Hawaii community colleges shall administer courses at no cost to participants or for a fee that may be refunded, and shall provide course notifications to relevant county employees.

• Appropriates $125,000 for fiscal year 2017-2018 and $125,000 for fiscal year 2018-2019, with a required progress report to the legislature by twenty days prior to the 2019 regular session.