HI HB860

Prohibits issuance of building permits beginning January 1, 2022, for new single-family dwellings in developments of 20 or more dwellings that do not include rooftop photovoltaic energy generating systems, unless a variance is approved.

Allows variances only when submitted by a licensed architect or electrical engineer attesting that installation is impracticable due to poor solar resources or is cost-prohibitive based on a 25-year life cycle cost-benefit analysis.

Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office chief energy officer to publicize all variance applications and their cost estimates within 7 calendar days of receipt, and to publicize the disposition of applications within 7 calendar days of determination.

Defines rooftop photovoltaic energy generating systems as solar facilities with a minimum 5-kilowatt generating capacity that must include an energy storage device, and prohibits counties from preventing counties from establishing implementing procedures.

Takes effect July 1, 2050.