H.B. 1611 - Renewable Energy Summary

• Establishes state energy policy requiring at least 55 percent of renewable energy generation on each island to be "firm renewable energy" (continuously available 24/7) and limits any single renewable source to maximum 45 percent of generation per island.

• Prohibits fossil fuel generation after December 31, 2045, with authority for the legislature to extend the deadline by up to three consecutive three-year periods through concurrent resolution.

• Requires the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development to update the state energy functional plan by the 2023 legislative session and submit annual progress reports, with updates required every five years.

• Directs the Hawaii Natural Energy Institute to conduct a study by December 31, 2022, on appropriate percentages of firm renewable generation and renewable source diversity for each island, with findings to guide future policy adjustments.

• Amends Hawaii State Planning Act objectives to prioritize grid reliability through diversified renewable energy portfolios, reliable replacement of fossil fuels with firm renewable generation, and economic development in renewable energy industries.