The bill specifically targets businesses that meet criteria for receiving grants based on their work with the Department of Defense's Office of Naval Research. Eligible businesses must be at least sixty percent resident-owned, must have been operating in Hawaii for over a year, and are required to utilize all funds awarded by the program within the state. By investing in alternative energy research, the bill aims to foster technological advancements and enhance the state's energy efficiency capabilities.
Summary
Senate Bill 819 aims to re-establish the Hawaii Office of Naval Research Grant Program, which offers fifty percent matching grants to Hawaii businesses conducting research and development in alternative energy. This initiative aligns with Hawaii's goal of achieving one hundred percent clean energy by 2045 by encouraging the growth and diversification of the state's economy. The bill intends to facilitate collaboration between local businesses and federal research efforts to deepen the focus on innovative energy solutions.
Contention
While SB819 is largely seen as a positive step toward energy innovation, some opposition may arise regarding the allocation of state resources toward federal programs, particularly concerning how these funds are distributed among businesses. Critics could express concerns that the bill may favor certain established companies that have previously received contracts over newer, emerging businesses in Hawaii's energy sector, potentially impacting competitiveness and equity in funding access.