Hawaii Senate Bill SR31

Hawaii 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/22
• Refer: 3/11/22

Caption

Urging The Department Of Planning And Permitting Of The City And County Of Honolulu, Mayor Of The City And County Of Honolulu, And The Honolulu City Council To Ensure Greater Public Input Prior To The Construction Of Wind Machines Having A Rated Capacity Of Up To One Hundred Kilowatts.

Impact

The resolution seeks to amend Chapter 21 of the Revised Ordinances of Honolulu to convert minor conditional use permits for small wind machines into major permits. This change would mandate that public hearings be held for such projects, as opposed to merely requesting feedback from adjoining property owners. The intention behind this change is to ensure that potential impacts—such as noise pollution, shadow flicker, and flashing lights—are adequately considered and discussed within the community, thereby giving residents a voice in developments that affect their lives.

Summary

Senate Resolution 31 (SR31) urges the Department of Planning and Permitting of the City and County of Honolulu, along with the Mayor and City Council, to enhance public involvement in the approval process for wind machines rated up to one hundred kilowatts. The resolution highlights the existing regulations that currently require only minor conditional use permits for these wind machines, arguing that a more stringent application process would benefit the community by allowing for greater public input and scrutiny before such installations occur.

Conclusion

If SR31 is upheld and the amendments to the permitting process are enacted, this could set a precedent for how future wind energy projects are regulated in Hawaii. The resulting regulatory changes would not only reshape the landscape of wind energy in the area but also act as a case study for public engagement in other renewable energy projects across the state.

Contention

Notably, SR31 addresses concerns regarding the side effects of wind machines, which can adversely affect nearby communities. The resolution's call to prohibit waivers of Hawaii’s environmental impact statement law for these installations signifies a protective measure aimed at ensuring thorough environmental assessments are conducted. While proponents of wind energy may argue that these machines are vital for sustainable energy development, opponents emphasize the need for a careful balancing act between renewable energy sources and the rights and welfare of local residents.