HI HB789

Establishes the Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program within the Department of Human Services to provide financial assistance to eligible households for home energy costs.

Requires applicants to prove they are Hawaii residents, have an active utility account in the state, and meet income eligibility limits established by the department.

Directs the Public Utilities Commission's Public Benefits Fee Administrator to provide energy efficiency information, technical assistance, and energy audits to program recipients and help them implement efficiency improvements.

Appropriates $5,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 to fund program staffing (1.0 FTE permanent position and 2.0 FTE temporary positions), system modifications, and contractor services.

Takes effect July 1, 2025.