HI HB327

Prohibits building permits for new single-family dwellings in developments of 10 or more units from being issued starting January 1, 2024, unless the home includes a rooftop photovoltaic energy generating system of at least 5 kilowatts with battery storage.

Exempts affordable housing developments and allows variances if a licensed architect or engineer attests that solar installation is impracticable due to poor solar resources or cost-prohibitive based on a 25-year life cycle cost-benefit analysis.

Establishes a variance process administered by the Hawaii State Energy Office's Chief Energy Officer, with a 60 working day approval timeline and public disclosure requirements for all applications and decisions within 7 calendar days.

Authorizes the Chief Energy Officer to adopt rules and collect fees to cover variance administration costs, with fees deposited into the energy security special fund.

Amends the energy security special fund statute to permit use of moneys for supporting the Hawaii State Energy Office in administering solar installation variances.