Senator J. Kalani English
Sixth Senatorial District
State Capitol, Room 205
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Phone: (808) 587-7225

PRESS RELEASE
May 5, 2003

RENEWABLE ENERGY DESERVES CREDIT

TAX CREDITS APPROVED FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SYSTEMS

The progression from fossil fuels to renewable energy has been slowed in many States by a lack of available and renewable resources. In the State of Hawai'i renewable resources are abundant with plentiful amounts of wind, sun and geothermal activity to fuel renewable efforts. Lawmakers this year extended and expanded tax credits for renewable energy sources. Senate Bill 855, SD1 HD3 CD1 allows for residential and commercial renewable energy systems installed after June 30, 2003 to collect tax credits for their use of solar thermal, wind powered, and photovoltaic resources. New to the law, will be tax caps for commercial systems installed after June 30, 2003.

"As a primary introducer of this bill, I recognize the incredible amount of potential renewable energy at our fingertips, making it essential to promote policies which encourage the development and use of such resources. The current political climate around the world dictates a shift from dependence on imported fossil fuels, to one of self-reliance and sustainability. We must support the development of renewable energy technology," commented Senator J. Kalani English (6th Senatorial District: East and Upcountry Maui, Moloka'i, Lana'i, Kaho'olawe).

"I am pleased to have played a part in maintaining tax credits for renewable energy systems in Hawai'i, and have been fortunate to work with my colleagues in the Energy and Environment Committee, and with my progressive counterpart from the House, Representative Mina Morita (14th District, Hanalei, Kawaihau, Lihue, Kaua'i Island). It is extremely regrettable that other energy conserving systems, such as heat pumps and ice storage devices were not approved for similar tax credits by the Legislature. Hawai'i must turn towards self reliance and away from ancient technologies if we are ever to secure our future in this volatile world," concluded Senator English.

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