2026 Legislative Priorities
Carbon Cashback Hawai‘i has broadened its advocacy efforts beyond carbon cashback to include other measures that reduce the cost of our energy transition and lead us toward energy independence.
Here are our 2026 legislative priorities:
1. Carbon Cashback
Establish a pollution fee on fossil fuels, rising gradually over 10 years.
Equal-share climate rebates to everyone, with half-shares to dependents.
Cuts carbon emissions and ensures equity—low-income families benefit the most.
By year 10, the annual climate rebates reach about $450 per person.
2. Cleaner Electricity Generation
Strengthen Hawai‘i’s Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) to ensure only clean energy sources qualify as “renewables.”
RPS requires utilities to increase the proportion of renewables generating electricity.
Revises the meaning of “renewable” to include only energy sources that have low greenhouse gas emissions over their lifecycle.
Refocuses RPS to ensure a transition to clean electricity.
3. Incentives for Superusers to Convert to Electric Vehicles
Establish an EV rebate program, with higher rebates for high-mileage drivers.
7% of Hawai‘i’s drivers use 26% of the gasoline; transitioning these “superusers” to EVs would result in “super” reductions in emissions.
4. Streamline Rooftop Solar Permitting
Revise permitting requirements to allow qualified professionals to approve the start of installation of new rooftop solar projects.
Counties still give final sign-off after installation.
Reduces delays in permitting and speeds the deployment of clean, homegrown solar.
5. Healthy Soils Program
Establish and fund a program that supports farmers with tools and knowledge for soil practices that capture carbon.
Promotes healthier crops, water retention, and climate resilience.
6. Balcony Solar
Establish a regulatory framework that allows apartment dwellers and renters to install small, affordable plug-in solar electricity systems without permits or hassle.
Easy to install on lanai and other accessible spaces.