COM 0372.192 2024-2026 - Laserfiche WebLink

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(7) Alternative ownership and partnership models may be appropriate in some cases. The County should evaluate opportunities for public, cooperative, or public -private ownership or partnership models that could improve local control, service quality, or affordability, where feasible and consistent with applicable law. (8) Public facilities should lead by example in energy use. County buildings and infrastructure should incorporate energy -efficient design and on -site renewable energy systems where feasible and cost-effective. (9) Energy systems must withstand disruptions and hazards. Electricity infrastructure should be planned and maintained to reduce vulnerability to storms, natural hazards, and service interruptions. (10) Land use planning should anticipate future energy needs. The County should coordinate land use decisions with the siting and expansion of energy facilities and transmission infrastructure needed to serve planned growth. Section 5-5-2. Actions. (a) Energy facility needs should be considered early in the planning process. The planning department shall incorporate energy facility siting considerations into land use planning and development review as appropriate. (b) County renewable systems must be properly maintained to deliver benefits. County departments shall maintain and operate installed renewable energy systems to ensure they function as intended and provide expected performance benefits. (c) Clear siting standards can reduce conflict and uncertainty. The planning department shall develop and apply siting and design standards for energy facilities to minimize impacts on adjacent uses and environmental resources. (d) County projects should prioritize efficient energy use. The department of public works shall incorporate energy -efficient design practices into County facilities and infrastructure projects. (e) The County should remain engaged in State energy decision -making. The department of research and development shall monitor and participate in the State Public Utilities Commission proceedings, where appropriate, to advocate for Hawaii Island interests and ratepayers. (f) Improving County energy performance requires understanding current use. The department of public works shall assess energy use and performance across County facilities and prioritize upgrades based on cost-effectiveness and operational benefit. (g) Major infrastructure decisions should account for energy reliability. The planning department and the department of public works shall consider energy resilience and reliability when planning capital improvements and large infrastructure projects. 41