Hawaii Senate Bill SB2371

Hawaii 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/21/26
• Refer: 1/26/26
• Report Pass: 2/20/26
• Refer: 2/20/26

Caption

RELATING TO AGRIVOLTAICS.

Impact

Under SB2371, landowners leasing agricultural sub-parcels on lands used for agrivoltaics must prioritize lease offers to beginning farmers and submit annual compliance reports to the Department of Agriculture and Biosecurity. This requirement aims to enhance access to agricultural land for new farmers who often face barriers in securing lease agreements. The regulation also authorizes penalties against landowners who fail to comply with agrivoltaics requirements, ensuring accountability and promoting sustained agricultural production within solar project areas.

Summary

SB2371, relating to agrivoltaics, aims to establish a regulatory framework for integrating agricultural production with solar energy facilities in Hawaii. The legislation addresses the increasing pressure on agricultural lands from utility-scale solar developments and seeks to ensure that these lands are utilized in a manner that supports both agricultural and renewable energy goals. By implementing agrivoltaics, the bill aspires to facilitate the use of agricultural lands for dual purposes—energizing the state’s sustainable energy ambitions while also expanding agricultural output.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding SB2371 is largely positive among proponents who view it as a forward-thinking approach to addressing land use conflicts between agriculture and renewable energy. Advocates argue that the bill will enhance food security and empower local farmers, particularly new entrants to the sector. However, there are concerns about the feasibility of agrivoltaics and whether it will result in sufficient agricultural yield. Critics worry that the dual-use of land might compromise agricultural productivity, especially if solar energy projects are not properly managed.

Contention

Notable points of contention include the regulatory mechanisms for determining compliance and the effectiveness of agrivoltaics in improving overall agricultural production. While the bill aims to balance renewable energy development and agriculture, questions remain on how effectively landowners will integrate both practices without diminishing the agricultural output. The necessity for counties to issue special permits under specific conditions further complicates the regulatory landscape and may introduce additional challenges for implementation. The bill awaits further evaluation as it progresses through the legislative process.