HB 558

This bill establishes a nuclear energy task force within the Hawaii State Energy Office to study the feasibility of implementing advanced nuclear power technologies in Hawaii. The task force, chaired by the chief energy officer and comprising representatives from various state agencies, the legislature, the University of Hawaii, and potentially the U.S. Navy and energy sector, will evaluate the benefits, risks, and barriers to developing nuclear power in the state while considering regulatory, financial, social, and environmental factors. The task force is required to submit an interim report to the legislature before the 2026 session and will help determine whether nuclear energy could contribute to Hawaii's clean energy goals, recognizing that nuclear power currently provides nearly 20% of U.S. electricity and represents the nation's largest source of carbon-free energy.