As Hawaii policymakers seek to wean the state from fossil fuels, Hawaii Gas, the state’s regulated natural gas utility, is preparing for a major fight before the Honolulu City Council.

Oahu lawmakers are considering an ordinance that would eliminate gas hot water heaters from new homes, or require Hawaii Gas to produce at least 90% of its gas from renewable sources, like waste.

The bill might seem like a modest step. But Hawaii Gas is taking a hard line against the measure, saying it could be the first step toward broader restrictions that could threaten its business model.

By Stewart Yerton, Civil Beat