HI HR194

Requests the Public Utilities Commission to conduct an independent analysis evaluating the best paths to maximize cost reduction and minimize financial risk for Hawaii residents while meeting the state's 100% renewable energy by 2045 goal.

Requires two separate independent expert analyses examining energy strategies from now through 2055, including consideration of latest technologies like long-duration battery storage (100+ hours) that could enable additional renewable energy capacity.

Cites concerns that the Hawaii State Energy Office's January 2025 "Alternative Fuels, Repowering, and Energy Transition Study" contained calculation errors, including omitting LNG fuel costs, which eliminated claimed savings and would instead increase consumer costs by at least $300 million.

Preliminary report due 30 days before the 2027 legislative session, with final report due 30 days before the 2028 session.

Emphasizes Hawaii's vulnerability to imported fuel price volatility due to global conflicts (including the Iran conflict) and notes that battery storage and solar costs have dropped 90% over the last decade.