Hawaii's DHHL Faces Funding Challenges Amid Geothermal Energy Exploration
The Hawaii state House will oversee the $600 million funding allocated to the Department of Hawaiian Home Lands (DHHL) in 2022 to address the beneficiary waitlist. DHHL Director Kali Watson is considering geothermal energy as a revenue source, targeting Hawaii's goal of 100% renewable energy by 2045.
The Puna Geothermal Venture currently meets only 20% of Hawaii island's energy needs. DHHL has reached its loan limit under the Native American Housing Assistance and Self Determination Act (NAHASDA), with discussions for a higher ceiling anticipated at the Legislature. However, Watson's funding plans are likely to fail this session, impacting the 29,000 individuals on DHHL's waitlist.
