The state is looking at purchasing electricity directly from independent solar power producers, windfarms, geothermal producers and other renewable energy sources in an effort to save money and reduce Hawai'i's dependence on fossil fuels.

Gov. Linda Lingle said yesterday that the state Public Utilities Commission will begin exploring ways in which the state and local governments can buy its electricity directly from the independent producers, sidestepping Hawaiian Electric Co. and its sister utilities.

"Renewable energy has to be an important component of our state's energy supply in order to reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels," Lingle said.

"As the second-largest purchaser of electricity in Hawai'i (behind the Department of Defense), we'd like to see how the state's purchasing power can not only accelerate the use of renewable energy, but also help to reduce or stabilize energy costs."

HECO and its sister companies rely on fossil fuels for more than 90 percent of their generating capacity.

The state said the PUC's input is necessary because the power must be transmitted over the electric companies' lines.

PUC must examine whether such a plan is feasible and whether the state must be charged special rates for use of the transmission lines.

HECO said it is willing to work with state officials on its renewable energy program.

"Hawaiian Electric Co. welcomes the opportunity to work with administration on renewable energy and to see how state activities might further support the development of renewable energy here," said HECO spokesman Peter Rosegg.

Reach Rick Daysog at rdaysog@honoluluadvertiser.com.