HI HB1805

Requires University of Hawaii community colleges to establish and administer energy systems and technology training courses for county officers and employees involved in permitting, inspecting, licensing, and approving energy projects.

Training courses shall cover renewable energy systems standards, distributed electricity technologies (including solar and energy storage), building and fire codes compliance, and grid interaction with modern energy systems.

University of Hawaii community colleges must notify relevant county employees and may provide courses at no cost or for a refundable fee, and may contract with public or private entities to conduct the courses.

Establishes an advisory committee composed of industry stakeholders (solar and energy storage providers) and county representatives to guide curriculum development and identify training needs to reduce permitting delays.

Appropriates $130,000 in general revenues for fiscal year 2018-2019 to implement the training program, with funds available to refund participant fees.