Lingle should approve pro-solar legislation

THE ISSUE Two bills aimed at reducing energy consumption await the governor's signature.

Of nearly 300 bills state lawmakers have sent to Gov. Linda Lingle for approval, two that will reduce energy use and greenhouse gases deserve her signature.

One requiring all homes built after Jan. 1, 2010, to be equipped with solar water heaters will put Hawaii on the map as the first state to adopt the standard. More important, it can cut residential power bills by as much as 35 percent, making use of an abundant natural resource that doesn't cost upwards of $120 a barrel. It also conforms to the state's renewable energy objectives.

The second measure allows more homeowners to use solar energy to dry laundry the old-fashioned way -- by hanging it on a clothesline -- a practice banned in some neighborhoods governed by residential associations that in the past also had banned solar panels on roofs. Opposition focused mainly on aesthetics, that displays of underwear and other articles would be unattractive, but the bill provides enough flexibility to protect sensitive eyes from the sight of boxer shorts flapping in the tradewinds.

The solar water heater bill allows for exceptions if a home is in an area without enough sunshine, if cost savings fall short or if efficient devices like on-demand heaters are used instead. The state will set quality standards for solar equipment, and tax credits for retrofitting older homes will continue.

Because the measure will help achieve Lingle's renewable energy goals, the governor should have no objections to making it law.