If enacted, HB 927 would facilitate discussions around potentially amending the Hawaii State Constitution to accommodate fusion-powered reactors and would evaluate sites suitable for such reactors. By establishing this task force, the bill aims to accelerate Hawaii’s energy transition and support the state's net-zero emissions goals. The task force would comprise experts and would be responsible for reporting its findings and recommendations to the legislature by early 2025.
Summary
House Bill 927 aims to establish a future fusion task force within the Hawaii State Energy Office to promote the use of fusion as an energy source in the state. The bill was introduced following the announcement by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory regarding the achievement of fusion ignition, which marks a significant milestone in sustainable energy development. Fusion reactors are seen as a safer and cleaner alternative to traditional nuclear fission reactors, producing shorter-lived radioactive byproducts. The bill's objective is to explore the feasibility of integrating fusion technology into Hawaii's existing energy landscape.
Contention
While the bill is seen as a progressive step toward sustainability, it may raise discussions among lawmakers about the implications of introducing new energy sources into Hawaii's energy portfolio. Concerns could include the long-term safety and environmental impacts of fusion technology, access to land for potential reactor sites, and the legislative process required for any constitutional amendments. Despite the bill's intention to promote clean energy, the potential challenges and public perception of nuclear-related technologies could lead to significant debate within the legislature.
Requesting The Hawaii State Energy Office To Convene A Nuclear Energy Working Group To Study The Feasibility Of Using Advanced Nuclear Power Technologies In The State.
Providing for transition to renewable energy; imposing duties on the Department of Environmental Protection and other Commonwealth agencies relating to energy consumption and renewable energy generation; establishing the Renewable Energy Transition Task Force, the Just Transition Community Advisory Committee, the Renewable Energy Center of Excellence, the Council for Renewable Energy Workforce Development and the Renewable Energy Workforce Development Fund; providing for interim limits on energy produced from nonrenewable sources and for wage requirement for energy producing systems.
A resolution to direct the Clerk of the House of Representatives to only present to the Governor enrolled House bills finally passed by both houses of the One Hundred Third Legislature.