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Posted: Tuesday, February 26th, 2013 9:19 AM HST

Hawaii lawmakers debate geothermal energy proposal

By Associated Press

HONOLULU (AP) — Hawaii lawmakers are debating a bill to give island counties more control over the development of geothermal energy resources. Many state leaders see Hawaii's volcanoes as part of the solution to the state's energy woes. But several environmental groups and Native Hawaiian organizations are worried about the effects of unbridled development. The House Committee on Finance is considering a proposal Monday that would require county approval of geothermal energy projects. Advocates say the proposal adds important environmental safeguards and community input. But opponents say that the bill doesn't provide enough protections. The original version of the bill established stricter regulations on development but was opposed by the state Department of Land and Natural Resources. Geothermal energy supplies about 20 percent of the electricity used on the Big Island.