Hawaii Senate Bill SCR136

Hawaii 2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/7/25
• Refer: 3/12/25
• Report Pass: 4/2/25
• Engrossed: 4/3/25
• Refer: 4/4/25
• Report Pass: 4/14/25
• Refer: 4/14/25
• Report Pass: 4/17/25
• Passed: 4/24/25

Caption

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.

Impact

If enacted, SCR136 could fundamentally impact Hawaii's energy strategy. Currently, nuclear energy is excluded from the state's definition of renewable energy and requires a two-thirds vote from each house of the legislature for any construction of nuclear facilities. The proposed working group would include various stakeholders, such as the Chief Energy Officer, representatives from health and land management, and experts from the public utilities commission and academic fields. It aims to evaluate the benefits, risks, and potential barriers of incorporating nuclear technology into Hawaii's energy mix to form future legislative recommendations.

Summary

SCR136, introduced during the 2025 legislative session in Hawaii, requests the Hawaii State Energy Office to convene a Nuclear Energy Working Group tasked with studying the feasibility of using advanced nuclear power technologies within the state. This resolution arises against the backdrop of Hawaii's ambitious goal of achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045, highlighting the need to explore all potential energy sources, including nuclear power. The bill notes the reliability of nuclear energy as a stable power source, especially as the nation grapples with energy independence and the transition away from fossil fuels.

Sentiment

The reception of SCR136 reflects a mix of enthusiasm for exploring innovative energy solutions and wariness due to nuclear energy's controversial nature. Supporters see it as a crucial step toward exploring sustainable energy alternatives that could reduce reliance on imported fossil fuels and enhance energy security. However, opponents raise concerns regarding nuclear waste management, safety, and the environmental implications of reintroducing nuclear energy into Hawaii's energy landscape, mirroring national debates about nuclear power's role in addressing climate change.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding the bill include the existing constitutional and statutory limitations regarding nuclear power in Hawaii. Opponents argue that prior environmental assessments and public safety considerations must be addressed transparently before any steps can be taken toward potential nuclear energy initiatives. The balance between addressing urgent energy demands and ensuring community safety and environmental protection remains a focal point in discussions about SCR136.