HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES	H.B. NO.	2288
THIRTY-SECOND LEGISLATURE, 2024
STATE OF HAWAII

A BILL FOR AN ACT

relating to agrivoltaics.

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

SECTION 1. The legislature finds that Hawaii's agricultural heritage is deeply intertwined with its cultural identity, reflecting a legacy of responsible land stewardship and a profound connection to the natural environment. Acknowledging the rich tapestry of traditions and practices that define Hawaii's unique agricultural landscape, the legislature recognizes the importance of safeguarding and perpetuating these cultural values.

The legislature further finds that agrivoltaics, a pioneering approach to land use, align with Hawaii's cultural ethos by harmonizing modern technology with traditional agricultural practices. The legislature acknowledges that this practice not only enhances food and energy production but also respects and preserves the cultural significance of agriculture within the State.

The legislature recognizes how imperative it is to uphold the principles of aloha aina, a deep-seated cultural concept rooted in love and respect for the land. Agrivoltaics provide a pathway for aligning modern development with the values of aloha aina, as they encourage responsible land use that supports both agricultural abundance and renewable energy production while preserving the integrity of Hawaii's ecosystems.

The purpose of this Act is to require the department of agriculture to develop tax incentives, rebates, grants, and loan programs to incentivize and provide financing for agrivoltaic farms and solar energy systems on certain agricultural land.

SECTION 2. (a) The department of agriculture shall develop tax incentives, rebates, grants, and loan programs to incentivize and provide financing for agrivoltaic farms and solar energy systems on commercial or privately held agricultural land.

(b) In developing the incentives and financing options pursuant to subsection (a), the department of agriculture shall consider the following:

(1) A tax credit or rebate that covers thirty-five per cent of the cost of solar energy systems, including agrivoltaic systems, for commercial famers and residents; and

(2) The privately held agricultural land on which agrivoltaic systems or solar energy systems are to be located shall be actively cultivated in conjunction with, not separate from, the system in order to be eligible for incentives or financing options.

(c) The department of agriculture shall submit a report of its findings and recommendations, including any proposed legislation, to the legislature no later than twenty days prior to the convening of the regular session of 2025.

SECTION 3. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.

INTRODUCED BY:

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Report Title:

Agrivoltaics; Solar Energy; Agricultural Land; DOA; Tax Incentives; Financing

Description:

Requires the Department of Agriculture to develop tax incentives, rebates, grants, and loan programs to incentivize and provide financing for agrivoltaic farms and solar energy systems on certain agricultural land. Requires a report to the legislature.

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