HI HB1403

Appropriates $6,000,000 for fiscal year 2025-2026 and $6,000,000 for fiscal year 2026-2027 to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism for geothermal energy exploration and identification on Hawaii island.

Legislature finds geothermal resources provide stable power and community benefits and are viable alternatives to biofuels, with Hawaii island containing the largest and most reliable geothermal energy source in the State.

Builds on existing work by the Hawaii Technology Development Corporation and University of Hawaii on an integrated geothermal development roadmap aimed at developing the first utility-scale 50-100-megawatt power station on Hawaii island.

Supports the department's oversight of geothermal development planning, community outreach programs, and investigations building on previous work by the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands and other entities.

Takes effect on July 1, 2025.