Legislation before Hawaii's governor could expand geothermal
energy production across the state. The pending measures could
increase the geothermal output on all islands by amending the
Hawaii State Planning Act to encourage development of geothermal
energy on state and public trust land. "I really believe that
the consumer should own the resource because it's a mineral,"
explained Sen. Malama Solomon, who introduced Senate Bills 2001
and 3003. Solomon, D-Hilo-Honokaa, explained that geothermal
energy, unlike wind and solar power, is a firm energy source
reliant on ever-present underground heat, rather than
intermittent rain and sunshine. Only a firm energy resource can
replace oil consumption, she added. Nevertheless, the state has
invested millions in solar energy tax credits, which doesn't
create much cost savings because it doesn't reduce the need to
import oil. If Gov. Neil Abercrombie signs the amendments into
law, they could help move the state toward its clean energy goal
of 70 percent renewable energ