HI HCR147

Urges the Board of Land and Natural Resources to dispose of long-term water leases for Hawaiian Electric's non-consumptive hydroelectric use along the Wailuku River through direct negotiation.

Requests guidance on determining annual water lease rent values based on Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) charges calculated by energy production from the hydroelectric generating plants.

Supports Hawaiian Electric's Puueo Hydro and Waiau Hydro facilities, which have supplied renewable energy to Hawaii island for over 100 years and require long-term water leases to fund necessary repairs and upgrades following Hurricane Lane damage.

Notes Hawaiian Electric's lease application is unique as it involves only water rights with no public lands, and no other entity could qualify for this lease due to instream flow standard requirements.

Transmits copies to relevant House and Senate committee chairs, County of Hawaii mayor, Board of Land and Natural Resources chair, and Hawaiian Electric leadership.