Requesting The University Of Hawaii To Conduct A Viability Study Of Nuclear Energy Development In Hawaii.
Impact
The proposed viability study would explore the economic aspects, safety requirements, and overall utility of implementing nuclear energy solutions in Hawaii. It highlights the advancement of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) which could potentially operate securely in or near populated areas, thereby addressing public safety concerns while providing a reliable energy source. By investigating these avenues, the bill aims to foster discussions around diversifying Hawaii's energy portfolio and decreasing dependency on fossil fuels.
Summary
HCR32 is a House Concurrent Resolution requesting the University of Hawaii to conduct a viability study on nuclear energy development within the state. The resolution emphasizes the need for a sustainable energy solution, especially as Hawaii faces soaring electricity rates that are more than double the national average and a heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels for energy generation. The bill asserts that nuclear energy presents a promising alternative to fossil fuels, as it can meet growing energy demands and reduce environmental impacts.
Contention
While the bill seeks to pave the way for nuclear energy, it explicitly states that its adoption does not constitute approval to build nuclear power plants or dispose of radioactive waste without further legislative action. This resolution is cautiously framed, acknowledging public apprehensions regarding nuclear energy, thus leaving room for thorough assessments and recommendations based on the study's findings before moving forward.
Requesting The National Energy Laboratory Of Hawaii Authority To Work With The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Develop New Master And Strategic Plans.
Requesting The National Energy Laboratory Of Hawaii Authority To Work With The University Of Hawaii At Manoa To Develop New Master And Strategic Plans.
Requesting The Office Of Hawaiian Affairs To Identify The Scope Of Native Hawaiian Cultural Appropriateness For The Purpose Of Addressing Native Hawaiian Disparities.
Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Engage The United States Department Of Energy To Establish A Permanent Presence Within The State Of Hawaii.
Urging The Department Of Taxation, In Consultation With The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands, To Conduct A Feasibility Study On Providing Tax Breaks To Individuals Who Sell Property To Native Hawaiians On The Department Of Hawaiian Home Lands Waitlist.
Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Convene A Renewable Liquid Fuels Working Group To Study Local Production, Development, And Incentives For Renewable Liquid Fuels.
Requesting The Hawaii Housing Finance And Development Corporation To Study The Viability Of Increasing The Minimum Percentage Of Affordable Housing Units In A Project Required To Be Set Aside To Qualify For An Exemption Under Chapter 201, Hawaii Revised Statutes.
Reforms the organizational structure for the Department of Transportation and Development including its duties, powers, and responsibilities of officers and employees (EN INCREASE SD EX See Note)