Category: News Releases

ENERGY OFFICE SCHEDULES COMMUNITY MEETINGS ON UTILITY MODEL STUDY

October 5, 2017

For Immediate Release: October 5, 2017

HONOLULU — The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) will host a series of community meetings across the state next week to solicit community input for a study being done on future models for utility ownership and regulation in Hawaii.

HSEO, a division of the State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), is undertaking the study at the request of the Hawaii State Legislature to evaluate the costs and benefits of various electric utility ownership models, as well as the viability of various utility regulatory approaches to help Hawaii in achieving its energy goals. The study will examine scenarios for each of Hawaii’s counties.

HSEO has contracted with Boston-based London Economics International (LEI) to carry out the study, which is expected to be completed by January 2019. LEI and subcontractor Meister Consultants Group will lead the community meetings for Oct. 9-13. The meeting schedule is as follows:

Maui County:

• Wailuku, Oct. 9, 5:30 – 7 p.m.. Wailuku Community Center, 395 Waena St. Event Flyer | RSVP Link

• Kaunakakai, Oct. 10, 5:30-7 p.m. Mitchell Pauole Center Main Hall, 90 Ainoa St. Event Flyer | RSVP Link

• Lanai City, Oct. 11, 5:30-7 p.m.  Lanai Community Center, Eighth St. and Lanai Ave. Event Flyer | RSVP Link

Hawaii County:

• Kailua-Kona, Oct. 9, 5:30 – 7 p.m. NELHA Research Campus, Hale Iako Building, 73-970 Makako Bay Drive. Event Flyer | RSVP Link
• Hilo, Oct. 10, 5:30 – 7 p.m.  Waiakea High School, 155 W Kawili St. Event Flyer | RSVP Link

Kauai County:

• Lihue, Oct. 12, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle School, 4431 Nuhou St. Event Flyer | RSVP Link

Honolulu County:

• Waialua, Oct. 11, 5:30 – 7 p.m. Waialua High & Intermediate School, 67-160 Farrington Highway. Event Flyer | RSVP Link
• Honolulu, Oct. 13, approx. 6 – 7:30 p.m. Hawaii Foreign Trade Zone #9, Homer Maxey Conference Center, 521 Ala Moana Blvd. Suite 201, Pier 2. Event Flyer | RSVP Link

Next week’s meetings will focus on the topic of utility ownership and the role the utility plays in achieving community and state goals, including achieving 100 percent renewable energy in the electricity sector and minimizing costs. There are two additional rounds of statewide meetings scheduled. The second round of meetings slated for next spring will focus on utility regulatory models, while the third round of meetings next fall will be used to gather community input on draft findings of the report.

Community members planning on attending the meetings are encouraged to RSVP at the link above. Light refreshments will be served. Those unable to attend a meeting in person can view a copy of the material presented, which will be posted on HSEO’s website after the meetings, and may participate by submitting feedback via email to: [email protected]. Questions about the meetings or the study can be emailed to the same address.

###

 

About the Hawaii State Energy Office
The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth. For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]

DRIVE ELECTRIC HAWAII COALITION LAUNCHES ONLINE EV RESOURCE HUB

September 7, 2017

For Immediate Release: September 7, 2017

Contacts:
Noreen Reimel
Ulupono Initiative
[email protected]
(808) 544-8979

Melissa Miyashiro
Blue Planet Foundation
[email protected]
(808) 499-5713

HONOLULU — To gear up for National Drive Electric Week (September 9-17, 2017) and celebrate electric vehicle adoption across the country, the Drive Electric Hawaii coalition has unveiled a website aimed at encouraging drivers to charge up and go electric!

DriveElectricHI.com launched today as a resource hub for Hawaii residents. Visitors will find news, links to online and print resources, upcoming events, and stories from EV drivers and local experts. The goal of the site is to help Hawaii residents understand the driving, charging, and owning experience of switching to electric transportation.

The website also offers details about upcoming events and ways to get involved with National Drive Electric Week, including ride-and-drive events on Hawaii Island (Sept. 9 in Waimea and 16 in Hilo) and Kauai (Sept. 16 in Lihue), and the Electric Island Drive and Fair on Oahu (Sept. 17 in Honolulu)

“Working together on strategies to electrify transportation in Hawaii is a key component of our transition to 100 percent renewable electricity by 2045,” said Shem Lawlor, clean transportation director at Blue Planet Foundation. “We see the newly launched Drive Electric Hawaii website as an ideal place to start for community members who are interested in learning more about electric vehicles. We’ve worked to answer the top questions on people’s minds as they think about making the switch from gasoline vehicles.

Drivers who have already made the transition are also featured on the site. “We purchased our first EV in 2011 and thoroughly enjoy the ownership experience, the environmental impact, and the ability to run our cars on solar energy,” said Noel Morin and Stephanie Hall-Morin of Hilo when asked about their experience as electric vehicle owners. Lori McCarney, executive director of Bikeshare Hawaii (“Biki”), shared how the electric Smart cars her organization received as a donation from Hawaiian Electric Industries (HEI) Charitable Foundation have made a positive impact: “Biki loves the two EV Smart cars donated to us by HEI. Booking about 30 miles each day to check on Biki Bikes and Biki Stops, their compact size makes them perfect for navigating Honolulu’s tight streets in an eco-friendly way.”

Formed in 2016, Drive Electric Hawaii seeks to promote the use of electric vehicles, reduce fossil-fuel-powered transportation, and enable more renewable energy through collaboration on education, promotion, advocacy, and infrastructure to make electric mobility easier for all.

The coalition of public, private, and nonprofit organizations includes Blue Planet Foundation; Hawaiian Electric Companies; Kauai Island Utility Cooperative; Rocky Mountain Institute; Hawaii State Energy Office, Department of Transportation, and Division of Consumer Advocacy; and Ulupono Initiative.

“Many people do not yet realize that driving an electric vehicle can be both economically and environmentally beneficial,” said Brennon Morioka, Hawaiian Electric general manager for electrification of transportation. “About 7,000 Hawaii drivers are already enjoying the smooth and silent drive experience from state-of-the-art technology, a reduced carbon footprint and the financial benefits that come with driving an electric vehicle. Electric vehicle owners are not just leading the future of mobility; they are helping Hawaii on our journey to 100 percent renewable energy.”

# # #

HAWAII GARNERS NATIONAL RECOGNITION FOR INVESTMENT IN ENERGY EFFICIENCY

August 21, 2017

For Immediate Release: August 21, 2017

HONOLULU — A national network of energy efficiency experts recently honored Hawaii with its “Race to the Top Award” for the pioneering work being done by state and county agencies to boost investment in energy efficiency projects that are helping the state meet its clean energy goals.

The nonprofit Energy Services Coalition (ESC) for the sixth consecutive year recognized Hawaii as the nation’s per capita leader in energy performance contracting (EPC), a form of innovative financing for capital improvements that allows government agencies to pay for energy efficiency upgrades with the savings on their utility bills. In addition, the ESC for the second straight year named Hawaii one of its “Energy Stewardship Champions” for achieving infrastructure modernization, environmental stewardship, and economic development through performance contracting.

“The growth of energy performance contracting is making a significant impact on Hawaii’s use of imported fossil fuels while helping diversify our economy by sustaining and creating jobs in the clean tech sector,” said Luis P. Salaveria, director of the State Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. “I commend the state and county agencies that are executing energy performance contracts, and for playing a leadership role in Hawaii’s clean energy transformation.”

EPC uses the savings from upgrades such as digital controls for energy systems, and lighting, plumbing and air conditioning improvements to repay the cost of the equipment and its installation. The costs are borne by the performance contractor and paid back out of the energy savings. The ESC in its annual “Race to the Top” program ranks the 50 states based on the per capita amount invested in performance contracts for government buildings. Hawaii’s investment of $372.81 per capita in 2017 earned the state a sixth consecutive No. 1 ranking. The national average for EPC investment is $62.72 per capita.

“Using a tool like energy performance contracting to retrofit buildings not only makes them more efficient and comfortable, it delivers meaningful energy cost savings to building owners,” said Carilyn Shon, HSEO administrator. “Furthermore, using energy more efficiently is the fastest, most cost-effective way to pursue Hawaii’s clean energy goals.”

In addition to the Race to the Top honor, Hawaii was one of 12 states that earned the ESC’s Energy Stewardship Champion award for a combination of its political leadership, programmatic design, and the amount of private sector investment in guaranteed energy savings performance contracting (GESPC) in their states.

“GESPC is a financial strategy leveraging guaranteed future energy savings to pay for energy efficiency upgrades today,” said Jim Arwood, ESC Executive Director. “Hawaii has achieved considerable recent success in support of implementing energy efficiency projects in public buildings and infrastructure through the use of a GESPC.”

The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO), a division of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, accepted the Race to the Top and Energy Stewardship Champion awards during the ESC’s annual conference August 9-11 at the Green Valley Ranch Resort in Henderson, Nevada.

HSEO provides technical assistance to state and country agencies entering into energy performance contracts. The EPC projects vary widely and include office buildings, community colleges, airports, highways, and prisons. In a typical EPC, the building owner contracts with an energy service company to install the energy improvements and guarantee the energy savings over the contract term. The contractor is then paid out of the energy savings and captures the incentives made available by Hawai‘i Energy to promote investment in energy efficiency.

“Hawaii continues to be a national leader in clean energy and energy efficiency,” said Brian Kealoha, executive director of Hawaii Energy. “Since 1996, Hawaii state government agencies have saved, on average, more than 5 million kilowatt hours a year, equating to over $24 million in savings, with the majority of this coming through EPCs. Hawaii Energy has worked with the State Energy Office and state agencies to help them make smart energy choices. Hawaii Energy has rewarded these agencies with over $11 million in incentives for projects such as lighting, air conditioning system efficiency upgrades, and advanced building automation systems to promote investments that ultimately save taxpayers money while helping Hawaii achieve its 100 percent clean energy goal faster.”

Performance contracts signed by state and local government agencies in Hawaii since 1996 include 295 buildings and facilities covering more than 112 million square feet. The savings are the equivalent of powering 388,210 homes for one year.

###

About the Hawaii State Energy Office
The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth. For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov.

About the Energy Services Coalition
ESC is a national nonprofit organization, composed of a network of experts from a wide range of organizations, working together at the state and local levels to increase energy efficiency and building upgrades through energy savings performance contracting.

About Hawaii Energy
Hawaii Energy helps educate island families and businesses about the many, lasting benefits of energy efficiency and conservation. Hawaii Energy encourages and rewards smart energy choices which will allow our state to reach 100 percent clean energy faster and cheaper. To date, Hawaii Energy has collectively saved the people of Hawai‘i more than a billion dollars off their energy bills.

 

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]

 

 

 

NEW ADMINISTRATOR APPOINTED TO DBEDT’S STATE ENERGY OFFICE

July 21, 2017

For Immediate Release: July 21, 2017

HONOLULU—Carilyn Shon has been appointed administrator of the Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO), effective July 31.

In her new role, Shon will manage, develop, oversee and implement statewide energy programs, policies, and initiatives that support Hawaii’s clean energy transformation. She has extensive experience in the energy field, most recently serving as Energy Efficiency program manager, for the past 17 years, at HSEO, a division of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT).

“Carilyn has considerable experience, having worked on a number of energy programs and projects,” said DBEDT Director Luis P. Salaveria. “She has been with the state energy office for many years, and has a solid understanding of Hawaii’s energy landscape.”

In her current role, as Energy Efficiency program manager Shon is responsible for monitoring and implementing key strategies, including the state’s efforts to reach the mandated Energy Efficiency Portfolio Standards. Her responsibilities also included supporting state and county agencies implementation of performance contracting for accelerated efficiency improvements; updating and promoting the adoption of the energy building code; and ensuring that state energy efficiency, conservation and renewable energy programs comport with state energy policy.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to utilize my experience to advance Hawaii’s clean energy agenda,” said Shon. “The Hawaii State Energy Office has played a significant role in the establishment and advancement of the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative, and I look forward to creating a clear path toward the state’s 100 percent renewable energy goals.”

Through Shon’s leadership Hawaii has received three National Governors Association (NGA) awards for participation in the Policy Academy on Advanced Energy Strategies for Buildings and the Center for Best Practices, as well as participation in NGA’s workshop on Innovations in Energy Policy. For five consecutive years Hawaii has received national recognition from the Energy Services Coalition’s (ERC) Race to the Top award as the leader in per capita investments achieved in performance contracting. In 2016, ESC also recognized the State of Hawaii as an Energy Stewardship Champion for its “outstanding accomplishments in leveraging Guaranteed Energy Performance Contracting to achieve infrastructure modernization, environmental stewardship and economic development. ESC is a national nonprofit organization of experts working together to increase energy efficiency and building upgrades through energy performance contracting.

Ms. Shon holds a BA in English from the University of Oregon and an MA in English and an M.Ed in Education from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

###

Media Contacts:

Christine Hirasa
Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism
Phone: (808) 587-9006
Mobile: (808) 286-9017
Website: dbedt.hawaii.gov

HAWAII JOINS SELECT GROUP OF STATES TO REACH ENERGY EFFICIENCY MILESTONE

July 11, 2017

For Immediate Release: July 11, 2017

HONOLULU —Hawaii has surpassed the half-billion-dollar mark for investment in energy performance contracting (EPC), an innovative financing tool that allows government agencies to achieve significant savings from the installation of energy, water and operational efficiency projects without having to pay capital expenses up front. With $504.3 million in signed energy performance contracts to date, Hawaii becomes just the seventh state nationally to eclipse the half-billion-dollar threshold for EPC investment.

Buildings account for approximately 40 percent of total U.S. energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. By making buildings more energy efficient through retrofits and upgrades government agencies can significantly reduce energy use and negative environmental impacts. EPC also allows government agencies to enjoy the benefits of new high-efficiency lighting, cooling and other equipment without incurring any of the upfront costs while bringing improved working environments to personnel. The $504.3 million of energy performance contracts put in place since 1996 will save the state an estimated $1.2 billion in electricity costs over the life of the contracts.

“State and county agencies, which are some of Hawaii’s largest energy consumers, are demonstrating how energy performance contracting can reduce electricity consumption and help us achieve our clean energy goals cost effectively,” said Luis Salaveria, director of the State Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. “In addition, reducing the amount the government spends on energy allows us to make better use of taxpayer dollars for other critical programs,” he added.

“Hawaii has long been the national leader for its investment in performance contracting projects on a per capita basis. But now they have joined a handful of states in the exclusive half-billion dollar club for total investment in energy saving projects,” said Jim Arwood, executive director of the Energy Services Coalition. “Other members include the states of Washington, Ohio, Kentucky, North Carolina, Colorado and Massachusetts.”

The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO), a division of DBEDT, provides technical assistance to state and country agencies entering into energy performance contracts. The EPC projects vary widely and include office buildings, community colleges, airports, highways, and prisons. In a typical EPC, the building owner contracts with an energy service company to install the energy improvements and guarantee the energy savings over the contract term. The contractor is then paid out of the energy savings and captures the incentives made available by Hawaii Energy to promote investment in energy efficiency.

“The Hawaii State Energy Office has been instrumental in the success of EPC for government facilities in Hawaii,” said Brian Kealoha, executive director of Hawaii Energy. “The ability to finance energy efficiency upgrades over time without any upfront cost while incorporating the incentives from Hawaii Energy removes a critical barrier in moving forward with EPC projects and brings our state that much closer to reaching its 100 percent clean energy goal.”

Hawaii’s commitment to energy performance contracting has made it the national EPC leader on a per capita basis for five consecutive years. Hawaii’s investment of $370.74 per capita is well ahead of second place Washington with investment of $191.67 per capita. The national average is $60.78 per capita. Performance contracts signed by state and local government agencies in Hawaii since 1996 include 295 buildings and facilities covering more than 112 million square feet. The savings are the equivalent of powering 388,210 homes for one year.

###

About the Hawaii State Energy Office
The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth. For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov

About the Energy Services Coalition
ESC is a national nonprofit organization, composed of a network of experts from a wide range of organizations, working together at the state and local levels to increase energy efficiency and building upgrades through energy savings performance contracting.

About Hawaii Energy
Hawaii Energy helps educate island families and businesses about the many, lasting benefits of energy efficiency and conservation. Hawaii Energy encourages and rewards smart energy choices which will allow our state to reach 100 percent clean energy faster and cheaper. To date, we have collectively saved the people of Hawaii more than a billion dollars off their energy bills. Let Hawaii Energy be your trusted energy advisor to help save you money and protect what makes Hawaii so special.

 

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]

 

HAWAII BUSINESSES AND EVENTS RECOGNIZED FOR GREEN PRACTICES

May 17, 2017

For immediate release: May 17, 2017

HONOLULU — A hotel that diverts up to 30 percent of its waste from the landfill and saves more than 10 million gallons of water annually is among the recipients of this year’s Hawaii Green Business Program awards. A total of 13 businesses and eight events were recognized today for pursuing energy efficiency and sustainable business practices that will help their bottom line while advancing Hawaii’s clean energy goals.

“These businesses and events have gone the extra mile to demonstrate their exemplary stewardship of the environment and strong commitment to helping Hawaii achieve energy independence,” said Gov. David Ige. “The State of Hawaii has an ambitious goal to reach 100 percent clean energy by the year 2045. This is a tall order, but with the commitment of local businesses, government agencies, and non-profit organizations we can make Hawaii’s clean energy future a reality.”

The businesses and events were recognized during the Hawaii Green Business Program (HGBP) awards ceremony. HGBP provides assistance to businesses committed to operating in an environmentally and socially responsible manner. The awards were presented by Gov. Ige and hosted by the Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), Department of Health and the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association.

“The exceptional efforts by this year’s Hawaii Green Business Program awardees to save energy and reduce waste show what can be achieved when government and the private sector work together,” said DBEDT Director Luis P. Salaveria. “By improving operational efficiency, procurement procedures, regulatory compliance and community relations, HGBP members are able to earn a return on their investment while supporting a more sustainable Hawaii.”

From 2009 through 2016 HGBP has assisted and recognized more than 100 businesses and government entities, from the hospitality, commercial office, retail, restaurant and food service sectors, resulting in the following savings:

• 18.9 million kilowatt hours of energy (equivalent to powering 2,940 homes for one year in Hawaii)
• 136.8 million gallons of water
• $5.7 million in electricity costs

The honorees of this year’s Hawaii Green Business Awards are:

• Ala Moana Hotel
• Aqua Pacific Monarch
• The Equus
• Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa
• Hyatt Regency Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa
• The Kahala Hotel and Resort
• The Modern Honolulu
• Ohana Waikiki Malia by Outrigger
• Artizen by MW
• Bills Sydney
• HDR, Inc.
• Honeywell Smart Energy
• Ibis Networks

The Hawaii Green Business Awards also honored eight green events:

• HTA 2016 Annual Tourism Conference
• IUCN 2016 World Conservation Congress
• German-Hawaii Clean Energy Symposium 2016
• Kona Brewers Festival 2017
• Sony Open in Hawaii 2017
• TEDx Honolulu 2016
• University of Hawaii Sustainability in Higher Education 2017
• VERGE Hawaii 2016

For a description of the awardees and their energy efficiency efforts, please see the separate awardee accomplishments document. For more information on the Hawaii Green Business Program, visit greenbusiness.hawaii.gov

Awardee Accomplishments (PDF)

###

ABOUT HAWAII STATE ENERGY OFFICE
The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.  With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth.
For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov

For more information, contact:

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]

USDOE RECOGNIZES STATE OF HAWAII FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY MILESTONE

May 10, 2017

For immediate release: May 10, 2017

HONOLULU – The State of Hawaii signed $345.9 million in performance contracts for energy efficiency improvements for state and county facilities, exceeding a commitment made to the U.S. Department of Energy (USDOE). In 2013 the state committed to the USDOE’s Better Buildings Initiative, Performance Contracting Accelerator Program, with a goal of $300 million in performance contracts. Performance contracting is an innovative approach to implement energy and water efficiency projects using guaranteed energy savings to pay for the projects.

USDOE recognized Hawaii as the state that met the highest goal under the Accelerator Program. Hawaii’s milestone not only exceeded the state’s goal but also put the USDOE’s Accelerator Program over the top to surpass its $2 billion national goal for performance contracting.

Hawaii’s $345.9 million total is the result of contracts signed by the City and County of Honolulu for the Kailua Wastewater Treatment Plant, the City and County of Honolulu Board of Water Supply, and all three Hawaii Department of Transportation (HDOT) divisions: Highways, Harbors, and Airports. The projects cover more than 24.4 million square feet of building space and include installation of more than 136,000 lighting retrofits, 13 megawatts of photovoltaic power, and other energy efficiency improvements. Energy savings from the projects are estimated at $866.1 million over the life of the contracts. The energy savings are equivalent to powering 20,464 homes for one year and 389,381 homes over the life of the contracts.

The Hawaii State Energy Office, a division of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT), has been providing technical assistance for performance contracting to state agencies and counties since 1996.

“Energy efficiency upgrades like these are essential to the success of Hawaii’s clean energy transformation along with deployment of renewable energy technologies,” said DBEDT Director Luis P. Salaveria. “We are proud to have done our part to help push the USDOE over its $2 billion goal for performance contracting.”

Hawaii’s progress in energy performance contracting prompted a letter of congratulations to Governor Ige from the USDOE in October 2016. The letter recognized the success of Hawaii’s programs for “driving greater energy efficiency” and thanked the governor for his leadership.

“Congratulations to our state partners on their impressive investment in energy efficiency,” said Kathleen Hogan, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Efficiency at the US Department of Energy. “By accelerating the use of Energy Service Performance contracting, Hawaii has led by example and demonstrated how to save money for taxpayers and create well-paid jobs, through energy efficiency.”

The activities under the Performance Contracting Accelerator Program are part of the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative, a partnership initiated in 2008 between the USDOE and the State of Hawaii to achieve 70 percent clean energy by 2030, with 40 percent coming from renewable energy and 30 percent from energy efficiency. In 2015 the goal for electricity generation from renewable sources was increased to 100 percent by 2045.

For five consecutive years from 2012 through 2016 Hawaii garnered national recognition with the “Race to the Top” award from the Energy Services Coalition (ESC), a national nonprofit organization of experts working together to increase energy efficiency and building upgrades through energy performance contracting. The award is given to the state with the highest per capital investment in performance contracting projects. With the HDOT Airports Division performance contract totaling $212.4 million, ESC recognized Hawaii with the distinction of signing the single largest performance contract by a state agency. In 2016 ESC also recognized the State of Hawaii as an “Energy Stewardship Champion” for outstanding accomplishments leveraging performance contracting to achieve infrastructure modernization, environmental stewardship, and economic development. With the completion of the USDOE’s Performance Contracting Accelerator Program, Hawaii has a per capita investment of $370.74.The second-ranked state has a per capita investment of $172.84.

“The State of Hawaii has shown great leadership not only in this contract, but also in their overall program that promotes the use of guaranteed energy savings performance contracting in public facilities,” said Jim Arwood, ESC executive director. “They are a great example for other states to follow.”

The greatest contributor to Hawaii exceeding its $300 million goal was the HDOT contracts, which totaled $306.7million. The $212.4million contract executed by the Airports Division for improvements at 12 airports includes air conditioning upgrades, more than 98,000 light fixtures, and more than 24,400 photovoltaic panels with 7.9 megawatts of generating capacity. Contracts were also executed by the Highways Division for $68.1million and by the Harbor’s Division for $26.2 million. The work will be done by Johnson Controls, an energy service company.

DBEDT estimates that over the life of HDOT’s airport’s contract, which ends in 2034, the economic impacts will be $27.3 million in tax revenues (in 2016 dollars), $186.6 million in income to households (in 2016 dollars), and 867 jobs generated or supported each year during the first two years of construction in Phase I. The contract will generate or support an estimated 257 jobs supported each year during the two-year Phase II construction and installation. In addition, an average of 63 jobs will be generated or supported each year during the 15-year performance period. The energy savings is equivalent to powering approximately 9,264 homes a year. Over the life of the project the energy saved could power about 175,267 homes.

Performance contracting allows energy efficiency retrofits to be installed in a timely manner, providing savings more rapidly than would otherwise be possible.  Retrofits can take less than one year to up to three years to install. Capital improvement projects can take from six to 10 years, resulting in missed opportunities for annual energy savings. Accelerating the process is important for state and county agencies, which face increasing energy costs and the need to upgrade aging, inefficient, and obsolete energy- and water-consuming equipment.

###

ABOUT HAWAII STATE ENERGY OFFICE The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth. For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov.

MEDIA CONTACT
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]

DBEDT ISSUES FINAL CALL FOR CLEAN ENERGY EVENT SPONSORSHIPS

January 25, 2017

For immediate release: January 25, 2017

HONOLULU – The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s (DBEDT) Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is announcing the last call to apply for up to $10,000 in fiscal year 2017 sponsorship funding for events which assist in the efforts to raise awareness and garner support of Hawaii’s clean energy goals.

Proposals must be received no later than February 1, 2017, at 4:30 p.m. (Hawaii Standard Time).

In order to qualify for sponsorship funding, events should align with HSEO’s overall objectives, which include the following:

• Increasing awareness and support for the state’s goal in the electricity sector of achieving 100 percent renewable energy by 2045;
• Promoting various HSEO programs; delivering HSEO’s message to a clean energy audience;
• Forming partnerships with organizations that support HSEO’s mission; and
• Leveraging funds for a broader reach to a clean energy audience

Sponsored events must be completed by June 30, 2017.

HSEO follows five energy policy goals as it leads the state’s clean energy transformation: (1) diversifying Hawaii’s energy portfolio; (2) connecting and modernizing electric utility grids; (3) balancing technical, economic, environmental, and cultural considerations; (4) leveraging the state’s position as an innovation test bed; and (5) creating an efficient marketplace that benefits producers and consumers.

For additional details regarding evaluation criteria, general responsibilities and requirements, please visit https://spo3.hawaii.gov/notices/notices/rfp-17-019-sid.

###

ABOUT HAWAII STATE ENERGY OFFICE The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth. For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov.

MEDIA CONTACT
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]

DBEDT ACCEPTING FORMS FOR RENEWABLE FUELS TAX CREDIT

January 11, 2017

For Immediate Release: Jan. 11, 2017

HONOLULU —  The  Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) is now accepting notifications from renewable fuels producers planning to pursue Hawaii’s new renewable fuels tax credit.

Taxpayers wishing to claim the credit are required, among other things, to provide written notification to DBEDT of their intent to begin production of renewable fuels. Additionally, they are required to file a notification 30 days before the start of production. Notification forms and instructions can be downloaded at: https://energy.hawaii.gov/developer-investor. For a full listing of renewable fuels tax credit requirements taxpayers should review Section 235-110.31 of the Hawaii Revised Statutes.

Gov. David Ige signed into law Act 202 in July 2016 establishing a renewable fuels production tax credit that allows producers of renewable fuels from a variety of feedstocks to claim the credit for a period of up to five consecutive years.

To qualify for the credit taxpayers must produce at least 15 billion British thermal units (Btu) of renewable fuels per year. The credit is equal to 20 cents per 76,000 Btu of renewable fuels. The credit is capped annually at $3 million per taxpayer, and $3 million in the aggregate.

###

ABOUT HAWAII STATE ENERGY OFFICE

The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.  With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth.

For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov

MEDIA CONTACT:
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]

STATE’S CLEAN ENERGY PROGRESS OUTLINED IN DBEDT REPORT

December 27, 2016

For Immediate Release: Dec. 27, 2016

HONOLULU – The Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s (DBEDT) Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) has released its 2016 Energy Resources Coordinator’s Annual Report, which highlights the policies and activities that have advanced the state approximately a quarter of the way toward its target of achieving 100 percent renewable energy by 2045.

The report details the state’s progress toward meeting its goals of energy self-sufficiency, economic growth and carbon reduction.  At the heart of this effort is the Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI), which brings together stakeholders and provides a framework for realizing the goals through various clean energy programs, regulatory advancements, industry partnerships and policies.

The report documents significant progress statewide toward meeting the 100 percent renewable energy goal in the electricity sector. The Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) experienced the largest jump, with its renewable energy portfolio standard (RPS) increasing from 17.5 percent in 2014 to 27.3 percent in 2015. Hawaii achieved a statewide RPS of 23.4 percent in 2015, up from 21.1 percent in 2014, with notable advances in solar and wind energy. The RPS is currently estimated at about 25 percent, thanks to renewable energy resources added to the grids in 2016.

“Hawaii’s push to create a clean energy future is becoming a reality,” said Luis P. Salaveria, director of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism. “The state made tremendous strides to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels, with about 25 percent of all electricity sales coming from renewable sources. We will continue to work toward our 100 percent renewable energy goal by engaging all stakeholders with collaboration, innovative thinking and a strong entrepreneurial drive.”

There is also good news to report in the effort to reduce petroleum use in the transportation sector. The popularity of electric vehicles (EV) continues to grow, with EV registrations accelerating at a double-digit pace in 2016. By year’s end there were more than 5,000 EVs registered in Hawaii, a 26 percent increase over the same period a year earlier. Hawaii is second in the nation (after California) in per capita EV registrations and a leader in charging facilities.

Hawaii also experienced significant gains in energy efficiency. In addition to progress in the private sector, state and county agencies contributed to the gains by participating in the state’s Energy Performance Contracting (EPC) program, which is coordinated by HSEO. To date, state and local government agencies have signed a total of more than $442.4 million in performance contracts that will save an estimated $1.1 billion over the lifetime of those contracts. These savings are the equivalent to powering 368,426 homes for one year. The projects comprise of more than 96 million square feet in 225 buildings or facilities.

ENERGY STAR certification for public and private buildings throughout Hawaii remained strong in 2016. Honolulu ranked among the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR Top 25 Cities rankings. A total of 69 buildings became certified, which encompassed 9.6 million square feet with an energy savings equivalent to $23 million a year.

The Energy Resources Coordinator’s Annual Report 2016 is available at https://energy.hawaii.gov/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/2016-ERC.pdf

###

ABOUT HAWAII STATE ENERGY OFFICE

The Hawaii State Energy Office (HSEO) is a division of the state’s Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.  With the state’s goal to reach 100 percent renewable energy generation by 2045, HSEO is leading the state’s charge toward clean energy independence. HSEO is committed to developing and deploying high impact solutions that will maximize Hawaii’s renewable energy resources and improve efficiency and transportation standards. Through effective policies and innovative programs, HSEO has positioned Hawaii port as a leader in clean energy innovation, which will generate quality jobs, attract investment opportunities and accelerate economic growth. For more information, visit energy.hawaii.gov

Media Contact:
Alan Yonan Jr.
Communications Officer
DBEDT State Energy Office
(808) 587-3860
[email protected]