HI SCR176

Urges the Public Utilities Commission to hold at least two public community meetings before approving major energy projects in affected communities.

Defines "major energy project" as projects costing $10,000,000 or more, or requiring PUC approval, including utility-scale solar, wind farms, battery storage, grid modernization, EV charging infrastructure, geothermal facilities, and firm power plants.

Addresses concerns that rural families, low-income households, and Native Hawaiian communities are disproportionately impacted by energy infrastructure while lacking access to project benefits.

Notes that approving major energy projects without community input has led to conflicts, lawsuits, and construction delays that undermine Hawaii's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045.

Calls for energy equity impact assessments to protect working families from elevated costs and promote local economic opportunity.