Article

Hawaiʻi is on the verge of a multibillion-dollar commitment to liquid natural gas (LNG) for electricity generation, following a partnership with JERA. Governor Josh Green emphasizes the need for energy security amid high energy bills.

Critics question the commitment to LNG without exploring local energy solutions, particularly geothermal, which could serve as a clean baseload power source. Research indicates viable geothermal resources exist across the state.

Current legislation seeks $33 million for statewide geothermal exploration to assess its potential. The LNG infrastructure costs over $2 billion and would not be operational until the mid-2030s, raising concerns about long-term dependence on fossil fuels. In contrast, successful geothermal drilling could lead to energy independence.