HI HB452

Authorizes the Public Utilities Commission to establish preferential electricity rates for agricultural activities using protected agriculture to produce fruits or vegetables for distribution.

Requires protected agriculture operations to incorporate reasonable efforts to use cost-effective renewable energy sources and energy efficiency measures to qualify for preferential rates.

Mandates the PUC ensure that any subsidization paid by other customers is limited and reasonable, and requires periodic review and adjustment of rates as necessary.

Defines "protected agriculture" as crop production technologies or techniques that partially or fully control a plant's micro-climate, excluding medical cannabis production.

Takes effect on July 1, 2019.