Here’s a good summary of the conflict associated with Bill 25, an attempt to establish increased energy efficiency Honolulu’s buildings. The bill addresses insulation, lighting efficiency, water heating efficiency, and future-proofing of structures in anticipation of the electrification of transportation. These are all promising and needed, inspired by the lure of a sustainable future. (Hawaii has an ambitious 100% RPS goal – by 2045, energy production will be via renewable energy sources.)
There are headwinds, however. This HPR article, “Fight Over Green Building Code Highlights Challenge of Phasing out Carbon”, describes the fight between groups that fear the impact of the change on their businesses and those that are in strong support of Bill 25. The fight is over the requirements to have electric vehicle (EV) charger-ready parking structures and the requirement for solar hot water heating. The opponents include construction/building associations and the gas utility.
I’m supportive of the measure and don’t agree with the opposition. The EV infrastructure requirement addresses readiness and will save property owners from having to deal with expensive future retrofits. (It’s easier and cheaper to install conduits and even wiring and breakers during the initial construction, than after construction is done.) The electrification of transportation is coming, let’s make decisions that support this inevitability.
On the other hand – the solar water heating rule is a no-brainer. The reduction in water heating costs, even with the electric water heater as back-up and not having to deal with the hassle and cost of propane are benefits that our many have enjoyed for many years now.Â
We have the opportunity to build for the future, today; Bill 25 offers us the chance to do this.
– Noel Morin
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