Hawaii Senate Bill SR69

Hawaii 2023 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/10/23
• Refer: 3/15/23

Caption

Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Conduct A Study To Determine The Extent To Which Owners Of Multiple Properties That Are Places Of Public Accommodation Within The State Aggregate Their Required Parking Spaces And Choose To Designate And Electrify Parking Spaces In A County That Is Not The Same County Where The Majority Of The Parking Spaces Are Located.

Impact

This resolution emphasizes the importance of effective electrification of the state’s transportation system in the context of Hawaii's wider goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2045. By analyzing the current status of parking and electrification practices, the inquiry aims to identify gaps that could leave certain counties underserved in terms of access to EV charging capabilities. Ground transportation remains a significant contributor to the state's overall energy emissions, accounting for about 25%, hence highlighting the importance of enhancing charging infrastructure to facilitate EV ownership and, ultimately, a reduction in carbon emissions.

Summary

Senate Resolution 69 (SR69) requests the Hawaii State Energy Office to conduct a study assessing the practices of owners of multiple properties functioning as places of public accommodation. The resolution intends to examine how these property owners aggregate their required parking spaces and the choices made regarding the designation and electrification of these parking spaces when located in a different county from where the majority of these spaces exist. This initiative underscores the rising necessity for adequate electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure amidst increasing adoption rates of EVs across Hawaii.

Contention

Notably, there is recognition that current practices allow for electric vehicle charging stalls to be aggregated in a single location on a property owner's premises, which may not be equitable for residents in all counties. This raises concerns about accessibility and the potential barriers that could restrict more extensive adoption of electric vehicles. The results of the study requested by SR69 are expected to inform potential future legislation aimed at addressing these disparities, thereby promoting equal access to electric vehicle charging stations across various regions.