HI HB2479

Establishes a temporary working group within the Public Utility Commission to study utility infrastructure capacity, lifespan of coastline infrastructure, and financial implications of necessary expansions in counties with populations exceeding 500,000

Working group members include representatives from the PUC, Charter Communications, Honolulu City Council District 1, telecommunications carriers, electric utilities, Honolulu Board of Water Supply, IBEW Local 1260, and Honolulu Department of Environmental Services

Working group must assess current infrastructure capacity versus demand, identify infrastructure nearing end of operational lifespan, analyze costs for expansion to accommodate projected coastline community growth, and review whether approved permits have strained infrastructure capacity

Counties must consider the working group's report and infrastructure capacity impact before issuing new permits

Report with findings and recommendations due to the legislature no later than 20 days before the 2027 regular session