HI SB2499

Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to implement a slim-hole resource characterization program identifying underground water and carbon sequestration resources statewide, under direction of the Hawaii Groundwater and Geothermal Resources Center at the University of Hawaii.

Mandates preparation of an environmental assessment or environmental impact statement for the program in compliance with Hawaii Revised Statutes chapter 343.

Requires the Hawaii State Energy Office to engage with counties and nearby communities before and during the environmental assessment and program implementation to understand community needs, priorities, and concerns.

Directs the Hawaii State Energy Office to submit a progress report to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the 2027 regular session, with findings, recommendations, and proposed legislation made available to the public in accessible formats including mapping software.

Appropriates $135,000 from general revenues for fiscal year 2024-2025 for one full-time equivalent position, plus additional funding from the energy security special fund for program implementation and environmental review, with effective date of July 1, 2024.