RELATING TO RENEWABLE ENERGY.

SB2303

THE SENATE

S.B. NO.

2303

THIRTY-THIRD LEGISLATURE, 2026

STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating
to renewable energy
.

BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:

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SECTION 1.
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The legislature finds that with federal solar
tax credits expiring ahead of schedule, households may seek alternative options
to reduce energy costs.
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Portable
"plug‑in" solar power devices offer a more flexible option than
traditional renewable energy installations to reduce energy costs, particularly
for households in condominiums or other multi-unit properties.

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Accordingly,
the purpose of this act is to clarify the exemptions and requirements for the
use of portable solar generation devices, and provide liability protections for
electric utilities.

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SECTION
2.
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Chapter 196, Hawaii Revised Statutes,
is amended by adding a new part to be appropriately designated and to read as
follows:

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Part
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PORTABLE SOLAR GENERATION DEVICES

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�196-
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Definitions.

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As
used in this part:

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"Portable solar generation device" means a moveable
photovoltaic generation device that:

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(1)
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Has a maximum power output of not
more than one thousand two hundred watts;

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(2)
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Is designed to be connected to a
building's electrical system through a standard one hundred twenty volt
alternating current outlet;

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(3)
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Is intended primarily to offset part
of the user's electricity consumption;

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(4)
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Meets the standards of the most
recent version of the National Electrical Code; and

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(5)
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Is certified by Underwriters Laboratories
or an equivalent nationally recognized testing laboratory.

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�196-
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Portable solar generation devices;
exemptions; requirements.
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(a)
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A portable solar generation device that meets the requirements of this
part shall be:

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(1)
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Exempt from interconnection
requirements as described in section 269-142; and

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(2)
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Not subject to net energy metering
as described in part VI of chapter 269.

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(b)
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A portable solar generation
device shall include a device or feature that prevents the system from
energizing the building's electrical system during a power outage.

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(c)
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An electric utility:

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(1)
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Shall not require a customer using a
portable solar generation device to:

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(A)
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Obtain the electric utility's
approval before installing or using the system;

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(B)
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Pay any fee or charge related to the
system; or

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(C)
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Install any additional controls or
equipment beyond what is integrated into the system; and

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(2)
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Shall not be liable for any damage
or injury caused by a portable solar generation device.
"

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SECTION
3.
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New statutory material is
underscored.

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SECTION
4.
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This Act shall take effect upon its
approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Renewable
Energy; Portable Solar Generation Devices

Description:

Creates
exemptions from interconnection requirements for portable solar generation
devices.
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Establishes basic safety
requirements for portable solar generation devices.
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Provides liability protections for electric
utilities.

The summary description
of legislation appearing on this page is for informational purposes only and is
not legislation or evidence of legislative intent.