Isles making steady shift to clean energy
Don't chalk up 2009 as a year for big spending on energy independence. Lawmakers and state officials have a laser-like focus on paying for the essentials of government — which, in an economic downturn as severe as this one, is the only rational attitude.
But there are ways elected leaders can demonstrate in a significant way their commitment to the aim of energy security for Hawai'i, even if a big pricetag isn't attached. To a great extent, the Legislature is poised to make some lower-cost but important gains this year, with the support of the Lingle administration.
It's one of the very few issues on which voters can see this legislative-executive collaboration, and it's easy to see why energy independence has become a motherhood-and-apple-pie value. Given that this is the most isolated population center on the planet and the one most dependent on imported oil, increasing the Islands' use of its own renewable energy sources is no less critical a goal because of the fiscal crisis. It's just one that is requiring strategic rather than expensive moves.
Here are a few bills headed for conference committees that deserve further consideration:
What's needed is language putting strict, low limits on the percentage of fossil fuels burned in the plants; the aim is to have renewables be the predominant source, though some backup may be necessary.
Additionally, the measure should apply not only to the electric utility, but to other energy producers as well. Hawaiian Electric Co. is transitioning toward being a distributor of energy produced by various sources that would add electricity to the grid. All should be held to the same high standard.
It's wise to finance the move away from fossil fuels through a surcharge, but at this time, when the economy can afford little added stress, the tax had better be minimal to start. Meanwhile, the state should tap primarily the federal funds available for development purposes through Hawai'i's partnership with the U.S. Department of Energy.
Overall, the Legislature deserves praise for much of its energy package that appears to have solid support even in a difficult year. Other provisions would codify the state's Clean Energy Initiative, with its goals for boosting the percentage that renewable fuels represent in the Hawai'i energy portfolio and direct the setting of energy-efficiency standards.
The goals do seem a long way off, but that should harden the resolve for staying the clean-energy course, toward a future other than enslavement by imported oil, a commodity with supplies that are dwindling, day by day.
