H.B. 2469 - Critical Energy Infrastructure

• Prohibits state and county agencies from issuing permits for new grid-connected electrical generation facilities exceeding 5 megawatts or energy storage facilities exceeding 50 megawatt hours in sea level rise exposure areas.

• Defines "sea level rise exposure area" as coastal areas in Hawaii exposed to potential chronic flooding from a 3.2-foot sea level rise as identified in the 2017 Hawaii Sea Level Rise Vulnerability and Adaptation Report.

• Aims to protect Hawaii's electrical infrastructure from disasters similar to Puerto Rico's grid failure and Fukushima's infrastructure loss, and to prevent ratepayers from bearing costs to relocate future grid infrastructure.

• Applies only to ratepayer-funded facilities and does not affect existing permits, penalties, or proceedings initiated before the bill's effective date.

• Takes effect July 1, 2050.