SB1068 requires the Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) to first conduct a statewide environmental assessment for a slim-hole resource characterization program and then administer that program. The program is intended to identify the location and characteristics of underground geothermal resources and carbon sequestration resources across the state. Slim-hole bores are described as narrow-diameter exploratory bores used to help characterize subsurface resources.
The bill also requires HSEO to engage counties and nearby communities, including individuals and civic organizations, before and during the assessment and program to understand local needs, priorities, and concerns. HSEO must provide a progress report to the Legislature two years after the program begins and a final report at its conclusion, and the findings must be made publicly available in accessible formats, including commonly used mapping software. The bill includes appropriations from the energy security special fund and general revenues, and it creates one permanent full-time position to support implementation.
Impact
SB1068 would add a new section to chapter 196, Hawaii Revised Statutes, directing HSEO to carry out a statewide environmental assessment and manage a slim-hole resource characterization program focused on geothermal and carbon sequestration resources. It would also create reporting obligations to the Legislature and public disclosure requirements for program findings. In addition, the bill would authorize funding from the energy security special fund and general revenues and establish a new 1.0 FTE permanent position within HSEO, thereby expanding the agency’s responsibilities, staffing, and budget authority.
Sentiment
The available voting history suggests generally favorable sentiment toward the bill, as the Senate Energy and Intergovernmental Affairs committee passed it with amendments by a 3-0 vote. The bill’s framing emphasizes renewable energy, scientific resource assessment, and carbon sequestration potential, which likely contributed to support. No committee transcript is available here, so the record does not show detailed debate, but the unanimous committee vote indicates broad agreement at that stage.
Contention
The main areas of potential contention are likely to be the environmental assessment process, community impacts, and the use of public funds for exploratory subsurface work. The bill explicitly anticipates concern by requiring engagement with counties, nearby communities, individuals, and civic organizations before and during the program. Another possible point of debate is the scope and cost of the initiative, since the bill appropriates unspecified amounts from both the energy security special fund and general revenues and creates a permanent staff position. Any concerns would likely center on siting, land use, environmental review, and whether the program’s benefits justify the expenditure.