Author: Amanda Ho

GOVERNOR ABERCROMBIE SECURES AGREEMENT WITH REPUBLIC OF KOREA FOR SMART GRID DEVELOPMENT

February 3, 2012

For Immediate Release: February 3, 2012

Honolulu – Government officials and private sector leaders today joined Governor Neil Abercrombie and Choi Kyu-Chong, Director of the Electricity Market and Smart Grid Division at the Republic of Korea Ministry of Knowledge Economy (MKE), at the Hawaii State Capitol as the two leaders signed a letter of intent to pursue mutual interests in smart grid development in the Hawaiian Islands.

“We are delighted that the Republic of Korea has seen the value of partnering with Hawaii on a mutually beneficial smart grid development project,” said Governor Abercrombie. “Partnerships like this show the world just how serious Hawaii is about our commitment to building a leading clean energy economy through clean energy demonstration and implementation. We are building an energy legacy for our state that will benefit the people of Hawaii for generations.”

Both Korea and the United States, specifically Hawaii, have been conducting a number of relevant smart grid demonstration projects. Korea and State of Hawaii recognize that it would be mutually beneficial to collaborate on smart grid research, development and demonstration projects in conjunction with public/private partners from Korea, Hawaii and elsewhere in the United States.

“The Republic of Korea and the State of Hawaii both share the common goals of clean energy and energy independence,” said Director Choi Kyu-Chong. “The language that we share is that of green growth, independence and prosperity. Through the development of advanced energy technologies, including smart grid, we can sustain and prosper.”

MKE and its Korea Smart Grid Institute (KSGI) have been at the forefront of the Korea Smart Grid Roadmap, South Korea’s plan to develop and implement a nationwide smart grid by 2030. The MKE and KSGI are currently leading more than 170 South Korean companies in the development and deployment of the Jeju Island Test Bed, a planned 6,000 household smart grid community demonstration project in South Korea, with investments totaling more than $240 million between 2009 and 2013. KSGI is also currently implementing a joint Korea-State of Illinois project to install energy-saving equipment in at least four Chicago buildings with investments of more than $35 million by companies such as LG Electronics and KT Corporation (formerly known as Korea Telecom).

The goal of the partnership between Korea and Hawaii is to develop a memorandum of understanding for a project in Hawaii similar to those mentioned above. Such a partnership would help both partners achieve the mutual goals of smart grid development and deployment, which ultimately improves energy efficiency and promotes economic growth.

“The state currently has approximately 80 renewable energy projects in various stages of development in the queue,” added state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Director Richard Lim. “Building a smart grid system will help us manage the power that is generated by renewable resources, which means more projects can come to fruition. That translates into more jobs for our local economy.”

The next step outlined in the letter of intent is for both parties to collaborate on a more defined memorandum of understanding by October 31, 2012, which will describe the project partners, scope, location and resource contributions.

This project is in addition to another smart grid demonstration project that is currently taking place on Maui, which was brought forward through an agreement with Japan-based New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) in November of 2011.

For more information, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov.

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Media Contacts:

Donalyn Dela Cruz
Deputy Director of Communications
Office of the Governor
(808) 586-0012

Kathy Yim
Energy Analyst
State Energy Office, DBEDT
(808) 587-9003

Mark Glick
Energy Program Administrator
State Energy Office, DBEDT
(808) 587-3812

STATE EXTENDS ELECTRIC VEHICLE REBATE PROGRAM

January 30, 2012

For Immediate Release: January 30, 2012

HONOLULU – The State of Hawaii is re-energizing its successful EV Ready Rebate Program with an additional $150,000 and has extended the deadline for rebates on new electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles and chargers from January 31 to March 31, 2012.

Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and will run through the deadline or while funds are available, whichever comes first. The State anticipates an increase in consumer demand for new electric vehicles this year.

From early January 2011 to mid-January of this year, 528 rebates have been approved for 318 electric vehicles and 210 chargers, with $153,999 remaining in funding as of January 23. The additional funds increase the available total to $303,999. Rebate forms are available on the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s (DBEDT) State Energy Office website at electricvehicle.hawaii.gov. The Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs will continue administering the EV Ready Rebate Program.

“The State of Hawaii is definitely becoming a national leader when it comes to the acceptance of vehicles that are 100 percent electric,” said Mark Glick, Energy Program Administrator for the DBEDT’s State Energy Office. “With the cost of gas still on the rise, these vehicles offer consumers a cost-effective, long-term advantage. Expanding the EV Ready Rebate Program not only helps consumers today, but it will help our State in the long run as we work to reach our energy independence goals.”

Hawaii residents can apply for State rebates of up to $4,500 on purchases of electric vehicles and up to $500 for electric vehicle chargers through the Hawaii Electric Vehicle (EV) Ready Program. In addition to the State EV rebates, federal tax incentives of up to $7,500 are also available for highway-capable vehicles (the Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle credit, which applies to at least 200,000 units per auto manufacturer before it phases out). This allows for the potential of up to $12,500 in rebates and tax credits for an individual.

Many electric vehicle manufacturers are continuing to choose Hawaii as an ideal location for many reasons, including:
• Consumers’ high level of enthusiasm to adopt electric transportation. Hawaii has the largest number of reservations per capita in the country for the Nissan LEAF.
• Favorable electricity time-of-use EV charging rates from electric utility companies.
• Moderate climate, limited driving distances and a strong tourism industry are ideal for EV utilization.

“EV enthusiasts in Hawaii have rewarded automakers for rolling out their new electric vehicles in the islands,” stated Dave Rolf, Executive Director of the Hawaii Automobile Dealers Association. “The highest per capita U.S. market embrace of the Nissan LEAF was in Hawaii this past year. The State’s addition of $150,000 in Hawaii state tax rebates for consumers purchasing EVs will help keep the momentum on this important transition to renewable fuels.”

The EV Ready Program is funded by Federal stimulus funds administered by DBEDT. By April 2012, approximately 210 charging stations, at roughly 140 sites across all counties, will be installed as part of the EV Ready Grant Program. Some chargers will have the capacity to charge more than one vehicle at a time.

A listing of publicly available EV charging stations in Hawaii can be found on the Hawaii Charging Station Database. This database is frequently updated as private and public organizations add charging stations across Hawaii and as requests to post information are received. The database is available on DBEDT’s State Energy Office website at electricvehicle.hawaii.gov.

The EV Ready Grant and Rebate Programs are part of the Transportation Energy Diversification Project, which is supported by funds from the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA). These funds are directed for use in the Hawaii State Energy Program through the U.S. Department of Energy.

DBEDT’s Hawaii Electric Vehicle EV Ready Program has also provided $2.6 million in grants for the systematic installation of electric vehicle chargers across the State; public education and outreach including an EV Ready Guidebook; introduction of EVs to rental car and county fleets; car-sharing services within the hospitality industry; and an online permitting system for charger installations at single-family residences on Oahu.

The State of Hawaii’s economic enterprise is to pursue energy independence by building a clean energy economy and reaching 70 percent clean energy by 2030. The DBEDT State Energy Office’s mission is to act as a catalyst for efficiency measures, renewable energy resources, transportation initiatives, green jobs, and investments in Hawaii’s economy. For more information, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov.

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For more information, contact:

Mark Glick
Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 587-3812

Kathy Yim
Energy Analyst
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 587-9003

HAWAII LEADS NATION IN ENERGY SAVINGS PERFORMANCE INVESTMENT PER CAPITA

December 29, 2011

For Immediate Release: December 29, 2011

HONOLULU – Hawaii is ranked No. 1 in the United States for investment in energy savings performance contracting (ESPC) for public buildings per capita, according to a ranking published by the Energy Services Coalition, a national nonprofit network working at the state and local level to increase energy efficiency through building upgrades. Hawaii’s overall conservation investment exceeds $150 million.

ESPC uses guaranteed future energy and water utility bill savings to pay for the up-front capital costs of facility improvements. In Hawaii, the State Energy Office has been providing technical assistance on performance contracting to state agencies and the counties, upon request, since 1996.

“This is exactly the type of investment what will propel the State of Hawaii toward our goal of 70 percent clean energy by 2030,” said Governor Neil Abercrombie. “Energy savings performance contracting projects combined with other ambitious clean energy programs – such as the aggressive expansion of photovoltaic use at public school facilities – will further our state’s energy independence and provide a strong catalyst for job growth.”

From 1996 to 2008, ESPC projects by the State of Hawaii Executive Branch, University of Hawaii at Hilo, state Judiciary, local hospitals, City and County of Honolulu, and the counties of Hawaii and Kauai totaled $68,218,183. In 2009, an additional investment exceeding $33,900,000 for Phase I of a state Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) ESPC project brought the total for Hawaii to over $100 million.

This year, the state Department of Public Safety (PSD), with DAGS as overall manager, and the University of Hawaii Community Colleges (UHCC) initiated projects of $25,511,264 and $32,802,833, respectively, bringing the total investment to more than $159 million (or $117 per capita).

The PSD project covers more than 569,000 square feet at the high and medium security sections at the Halawa Correctional Facility (HCF) and the Laumaka Work Furlough Center at the Oahu Community Correctional Center (OCCC). Work includes energy and water efficiency retrofits and improvements to operations and maintenance with annual savings of $2.3 million over the 20-year term of the project.

The UHCC project covers four campuses on Oahu with upgrades in lighting and heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment and is expected to generate savings of $4.5 million annually over the 20-year term of the project.

The state is moving forward on other Energy Savings Performance Contracting projects to further increase energy efficiency and reduce costs at state government buildings and facilities. DAGS issued an invitation for proposal (IFP) for a Phase II ESPC for 28 buildings; the Hawaii Public Housing Authority is finalizing agreements for a 789-building project; and the state Department of Transportation, with the Airports Division taking the lead, issued an IFP for ESPC for 15 airports, five harbors, and highways facilities throughout the state.

“We are growing a sustainable economy and transforming government through performance contracting and by mobilizing and leveraging investment in high-impact energy efficiency projects for public and private buildings,” said Mark Glick, administrator, DBEDT’s State Energy Office.

The State of Hawaii’s most important economic enterprise is to pursue energy independence by building a clean energy economy and reaching 70 percent clean energy by 2030. The DBEDT State Energy Office’s mission is to act as a catalyst for creating efficiency measures, renewable energy resources, transportation initiatives and progressive policy that lead to green jobs and investments in Hawaii’s economy. For more information, visit www.hawaii.gov/dbedt/energy.

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For more information, contact:

Mark Glick
Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 587-3812

Lois Hamaguchi
Energy Analyst
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 587-9006

GOVERNOR ANNOUNCES PLANS TO POWER PUBLIC SCHOOLS WITH SOLAR ENERGY

December 13, 2011

For Immediate Release: December 13, 2011

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie and Schools Superintendent Kathryn Matayoshi today announced that the state Department of Education (DOE) is working to significantly reduce the cost of school operations and, as a first step, has awarded a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) contract to install photovoltaic (PV) systems at 15 Kauai schools. Under the agreement, the installation of the PVs at the schools will be completed at no cost to the state.

“What better place to set the example of changing the way we approach our energy needs and usage than in our schools,” said Governor Abercrombie. “It demonstrates to the leaders of tomorrow that we are taking proactive steps now to address our state’s disproportionate dependence on oil.

“This administration will continue to streamline costs while staying on the path of reducing our dependence on fossil fuels. By lowering operating costs such as energy, we can focus state resources on student achievement and effective teaching,” he said.

Superintendent Matayoshi added, “The state Department of Education is committed to utilizing clean, renewable energy sources and finding ways to strategically reduce the cost of school operations. Over the next decade, the DOE plans to aggressively expand its photovoltaic project statewide to all schools.”

DOE awarded a PPA contract to Hawaii Pacific Solar, LLC, for installation of PV systems at no cost to the following Kauai schools: Eleele Elementary; Hanalei Elementary; Chiefess Kamakahelei Middle; Kalaheo Elementary; Kapaa Elementary; Kapaa High; Kapaa Middle; Kauai High; Kekaha Elementary; Kilauea Elementary; King Kaumualii Elementary; Koloa Elementary; Waimea Canyon Elementary; Waimea High; and Wilcox Elementary.

The PV installation at these schools will begin in January and is expected to be completed by summer 2014. Once the solar panels are operational, the DOE will purchase power at a rate of about 16.9 cents per kilowatt hour. This rate will rise to 28 cents per kilowatt hour over the course of the 20-year contract period. The DOE will save an estimated $30 million over the life of the project, taking into account a projected 3 percent yearly increase in commercial electricity rates.

Based on current Kauai Island Utility Cooperative circuit capacity, the new 2.4 megawatt system will generate 4 million kilowatt hours of electrical power per year equal to 60 percent of the 6.6 million kilowatt hours used by Kauai DOE schools annually. The DOE will reduce its dependency on oil imports by more than 6,414 barrels and carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 6,081,390 pounds annually.

By entering into a PPA, the state will receive solar power without any up-front costs, and the third-party providers will be afforded a mechanism to claim tax credits. In 1997, Act 96 established a photovoltaic pilot program to set up solar PV installations in each county. According to the act, solar PV installations would generate adequate energy savings to be self-sufficient. The DOE’s PPA agreement achieves the purpose and goals of Act 96.

The DOE also announced that a pilot PPA project on Oahu, involving four high schools (Aiea High, Kahuku High and Intermediate, Kaimuki High and Waianae High), is underway and expected to be completed in 2012.

The administration is working towards fulfilling Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative’s goal of 70 percent clean energy by 2030, through energy efficiency and the development and implementation of renewable energy sources.

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For more information, contact:

Donalyn Dela Cruz
Deputy Director of Communications
(808) 586-0012
https://hawaii.gov/gov

HAWAII FIRST IN NATION TO RECEIVE MITSUBISHI’S FIRST ALL-ELECTRIC VEHICLE MADE FOR NORTH AMERICAN CONSUMERS

December 12, 2011

For Immediate Release: December 12, 2011

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie, Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA), and Cutter Mitsubishi of Aiea hosted a ceremony today at the State Capitol whereby government and private sector leaders gathered as Bryson and Bridget Nishimura of Waipahu took delivery of Mitsubishi Motor’s first 100 percent electric vehicle made for North America, the 2012 Mitsubishi i. The ceremony was the culmination of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that Governor Abercrombie and MMNA President and CEO Yoichi Yokozawa signed on June 3, 2011 to formalize cooperation on statewide electric vehicle (EV) and EV infrastructure development and deployment. Delivery of the vehicle represents a critical leap forward as Hawaii works towards its goal of reducing petroleum use in ground vehicles by 70 percent within 19 years.

“With the cost of gas still on the rise, these vehicles offer our consumers an option that will be cost-effective in the long run, and at the same time allows our state to reach its energy independence goals,” Governor Neil Abercrombie stated. “In Hawaii, our climate and energy priorities make us best suited for these types of vehicles.”

As part of the agreement with MMNA, the State of Hawaii agreed to work towards improving its existing infrastructure in preparation for widespread conversion to EVs like the Japanese manufacturer’s all-electric Mitsubishi i. The state also agreed that it would pursue and implement strategies to support consumer incentives that aid in the purchase of EVs, and foster an ecosystem that includes deployment, marketing, promotion and sales of the vehicles.

“The State of Hawaii is definitely one of the leaders in North America when it comes to the acceptance of vehicles that are 100 percent electric,” stated MMNA Executive Vice President Masatoshi Hasegawa. “The state has taken its agreement with our company very seriously, and has made great strides in preparing its infrastructure so that businesses and consumers can enjoy these vehicles on a grand scale.”

Delivery of the first Mitsubishi i to a customer in Hawaii fulfills part of the company’s commitment to the state. Moving forward, Mitsubishi Motors will continue providing information and recommendations on strategies to support EV ownership in Hawaii, including standards for EV charging infrastructure.

“This day marks a significant milestone in our effort to attract emerging businesses and business models related to EV development and deployment,” said Richard Lim, Director, State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. “As electric vehicles become more mainstream, so will technologies that accompany them, including those that aid in the storage of energy generated through renewable sources such as wind turbines, bioenergy or solar photovoltaic systems. All viable options are needed as we work towards our goal of 70 percent clean energy by 2030.”

Hawaii’s clean energy goal is one of the most aggressive in the world, and has become a major catalyst for new business growth and innovation in the state. With at least 66 renewable energy projects in various stages of development in the queue, Hawaii is fast becoming a major player in the global clean energy economy.

The City and County of Honolulu and Hawaii Electric are among the first fleet customers to take advantage of the reduced operating costs, high efficiency and environmental benefits provided by adding the Mitsubishi i to their respective fleets. Vehicle deliveries will occur later in the month.

For Hawaii residents interested in vehicles like the Mitsubishi i, the state is offering a clean energy rebate of $4,500 toward the purchase of such vehicles. That, coupled with a federal tax credit of $7,500, subject to availability of funding, reduces the i’s out-of-pocket cost to under $16,000 after rebates and credits.

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For more information, contact:

Mark B. Glick
State Energy Administrator
Phone: (808) 587-3812

Lois Hamaguchi
Energy Analyst
Phone: (808) 587-9006

Christine Jew
Mitsubishi Motors
Phone: (714) 372-6326

GOVERNOR ABERCROMBIE SIGNS MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING FOR JAPAN-U.S. SMART GRID DEMONSTRATION PROJECT

November 22, 2011

For Immediate Release: November 22, 2011

HONOLULU – State government and energy officials joined Governor Neil Abercrombie and Japan-based New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) President Hideo Hato at the State Capitol today as the two leaders signed a memorandum of understanding to memorialize ongoing efforts between the State of Hawaii and NEDO. NEDO is an arm of Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry. They are set to build a first-of-its-kind smart grid demonstration project on the Island of Maui. The multi-million dollar project is aimed at improving integration of variable renewable resources, such as solar and wind power, and preparing the electric system for widespread adoption of electric vehicles.

“Anticipation for this project has been building for quite some time, and now it is official,” stated Governor Neil Abercrombie. “Hawaii’s clean energy industry has shown significant year-to-year growth, and it is becoming a strong driver in our economy. This project will invest $37 million in the development of advanced smart grid technology and will further position Hawaii as an international leader in the clean energy space, serving as a hot spot for global investment and research and development.”

The project is part of the Hawaii-Okinawa Partnership on Clean and Efficient Energy Development and Deployment, which was signed by the U.S. Department of Energy, Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of Japan, State of Hawaii and Prefecture of Okinawa in June 2010. The partnership is intended to foster the development of clean and energy efficient technologies needed to solve global energy security and climate change challenges. Japan and the United States designated Hawaii and Okinawa as the representatives for this groundbreaking partnership due to their demonstrated leadership and experience in clean energy and energy efficiency.

“It is our great pleasure to be provided a special opportunity to work along with Hawaii in a cutting-edge smart grid project under the Japan-U.S. Clean Energy Policy,” said President Hato of NEDO. “Such mutual collaboration will contribute to a breakthrough toward a solution needed by both countries, expansion of renewable energy and integration of grid networks. We hope that this project will provide a model for island grids in the Asia-Pacific region and across the globe.”

Hawaii’s clean energy goal is one of the most aggressive in the world, and has become a major catalyst for new business growth and innovation in the state. With at least 66 renewable energy projects in various stages of development in the queue, Hawaii is fast becoming a major player in the global clean energy economy. The fact that Hawaii is the perfect test bed for renewable energy has also contributed greatly to the state’s success. Surrounded by the Pacific Ocean, blessed with year-round sun, consistent trade winds, and home to one of the earth’s most active volcanoes, Hawaii is one of the few places in the world capable of harnessing solar, wind, geothermal and ocean thermal energy – all within a 200-mile span.

“The Maui smart grid demonstration project will elevate Hawaii’s position in the global clean energy marketplace and reaffirm our position as an energy test bed in the Pacific,” said Richard Lim, Director, State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. With significant renewable energy already in place, Maui is the perfect location for the project, which is designed to establish a model to integrate clean energy in a smart grid system. More specifically, the project will develop and install smart utility system controls in the Kihei area on Maui to improve the integration of photovoltaics and electric vehicles. Advanced electric vehicle charging management systems will enable utility operators to better balance generation and power demand while accepting larger amounts of solar and wind power.

The project’s contractors, Hitachi, Ltd., Cyber Defense Institute, Inc. and Mizuho Corporate Bank, Ltd., will cooperate with the State of Hawaii, the Hawaiian Electric Company, the University of Hawaii and the United States National Laboratories.

Installation of the smart grid technology is expected to begin in late 2012, with the project becoming operational in 2013. The demonstration project is scheduled to run from 2013-2015.

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For more information, contact:

Mark B. Glick
State Energy Administrator
Phone: (808) 587-3812

Lois Hamaguchi
Energy Analyst
Phone: (808) 587-9006

Mr. Onodera
NEDO Representative
Phone: +1-408-567-8033

GOVERNOR ABERCROMBIE SECURES AGREEMENT WITH CHINA FOR CLEAN ENERGY DEVELOPMENT

November 14, 2011

For Immediate Release: November 14, 2011

Honolulu – Governor Neil Abercrombie last night signed an agreement with Mr. Yu Ping, Vice Chairman of the China Council for Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), to pursue mutual interests in clean energy development. The Letter of Intent was signed by both parties just hours after the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Hawaii-China CEO Forum “Transforming to Clean Energy.”

“We set out to do business with China and I believe this past weekend, we’ve accomplished a first step in moving towards a direction of mutual economic growth in the area of clean energy,” said Governor Abercrombie. “Mr. Ping was very excited to enter into an agreement in which the state of Hawaii and China will pursue clean energy business projects in the near future.”

Governor Abercrombie began courting Chinese businesses last month when he visited Beijing. Yesterday, the Governor hosted members of the CCPIT and Chinese APEC delegates at Washington Place along with state lawmakers and local business leaders. Attendees were treated to local cuisine, music and hula, and were provided information about local energy business ventures.

The gathering was followed by a two-hour Hawaii-CEO forum called, “Transforming to Clean Energy” held in the House Chambers and hosted by House of Representatives Speaker Calvin Say. Participants included the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s State Energy Office, CCPIT, U.S. Pacific Command, Bestsun Energy Group and state lawmakers.

The Letter of Intent signed by Governor Abercrombie and CCPIT cites “there was invoked a spirit of collaboration between China and Hawaii on clean energy development efforts, as passionately presented by esteemed panelists from Hawaii and China.” The next step for both parties is to collaborate on a more defined memorandum of understanding by March 30, 2012.

“This weekend has advanced our collaboration with China and the U.S. Department of Energy,” said Governor Abercrombie. “We all recognize the need for lessening our dependence on fossil fuels and there is also recognition that energy projects present economic growth opportunities.”

On Saturday, two dozen government and private leaders working on achieving Hawaii’s clean energy goals participated in the roundtable discussion at the Governor’s office. Leading the roundtable was U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Steven Chu, U.S. Senator Daniel K. Inouye, and Governor Abercrombie. Subjects ranged from operations of renewable energy, to continued smart grid advancements, biofuel development, and the necessity of an inter-island cable.

At the meeting Secretary Chu expressed great interest in the State’s current energy initiatives noting that Hawaii is “the perfect test-bed.”

“As we compete in the global marketplace for the clean energy jobs of tomorrow, we need to continue to invest in the technologies that will create jobs here in Hawaii and ensure American companies remain competitive,” stated Secretary Chu.

Currently, the state and the U.S. Department of Energy have partnered on The Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative which is focused on implementing actions to reduce Hawaii’s dependence of fossil fuel oil by 70 percent by 2030.

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For more information, contact:

Donalyn Dela Cruz
Press Secretary
(808) 586-0012
https://hawaii.gov/gov

HAWAII-CHINA CEO FORUM CONVENED AT STATE CAPITOL

November 13, 2011

For Immediate Release: November 13, 2011

HONOLULU – The State House of Representatives, Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) and China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) today hosted nearly 350 CEOs of Chinese and Hawaii companies as they discussed energy transformation initiatives and projects. The Hawaii- China CEO Forum focused on the critical decisions that government and business leaders will face in the coming decades to address expanding energy needs, including renewable energy options, clean energy infrastructure and prospects for clean energy cooperation between Hawaii and China.

Keynote speakers included Governor Neil Abercrombie. House Speaker Calvin Say, Senator J. Kalani English, DBEDT Director Richard Lim, CCPIT Deputy Director General Han Meiqing, Dr. George Kailiwai of U.S. Pacific Command, and Wang Donghai, Chairman, Bestsun Energy Group.

“Hawaii’s clean energy goal is one of the most aggressive in the world, and has become a
major catalyst for new business growth and innovation in the state,” stated Governor Neil Abercrombie. “With more than 66 renewable energy projects in various stages of development in the pipeline, Hawaii is fast becoming a major player in the global clean energy economy. Our experience and understanding of both the clean energy economy and Asia-Pacific market makes Hawaii a great place to do business.”

In addition to information sharing regarding emerging clean energy technologies, project opportunities and best practices, particular emphasis was placed on China’s outbound investment strategies China will spend an estimated $1.54 trillion on clean energy projects over the next 15 years. China Investment Corporation, a $300 billion-asset-holding state wealth fund, is investing heavily in Chinese clean-energy companies and foreign operators with projects in China. Similarly, the China Energy Conservation Investment Corporation, a state holding company, invests in energy conservation, pollution control and renewable energy private sector projects.

“Merger and acquisition activity in the clean energy sector is a growing phenomenon in China,” said CCPIT Deputy Director General Han Meiqing. “Chinese companies are looking to capitalize on foreign technology and expertise, and that means the door is open for U.S. companies to take on bigger roles in China. With that, Hawaii is strategically positioned, both geographically and philosophically, to play a significant leadership role in the Asia-Pacific region.”

Mergers and acquisitions in the clean energy sector in China amounted to $2.126 billion in 2010; roughly 60 percent of the renewable energy sector deals that took place in the Asia- Pacific region last year. “China is currently the world leader in clean energy investments, and Hawaii is fast becoming the prime location to test, deploy and scale-up renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies and processes,” said Mark Glick, administrator of DBEDT’s State Energy Office. “It makes good sense that we continue to broaden and deepen our clean energy partnership with China. Doing so will help further position Hawaii as a global leader when it comes to the business of clean energy.”

Progress on the clean energy agenda was one of the top U.S. priorities for the APEC summit, along with reducing regulatory barriers to trade and strengthening overall trade and investment ties throughout the region.

For more information on Hawaii’s clean energy progress, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov.

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For more information, contact:

Mark B. Glick
State Energy Administrator
Phone: (808) 587-3812

Lois Hamaguchi
Energy Analyst
Phone: (808) 587-9006

COMMITMENT TO NATIONAL AND STATE ENERGY GOALS SHARED AT ROUNDTABLE WITH U.S. SECRETARY OF ENERGY STEVEN CHU, U.S. SENATOR DANIEL INOUYE, AND GOVERNOR NEIL ABERCROMBIE

November 12, 2011

For Immediate Release: November 12, 2011

Honolulu – U.S. Department of Energy Secretary Energy Steven Chu, U.S. Senator Daniel Inouye and Governor Neil Abercrombie this afternoon led a roundtable discussion to further the clean energy initiatives between the State of Hawaii and the federal government.

“The Obama Administration and Governor Abercrombie share a commitment to promoting the use of locally-produced, clean renewable energy,” said Secretary Chu. “As we compete in the global marketplace for the clean energy jobs of tomorrow, we need to continue to invest in the technologies that will create jobs here in Hawaii and ensure American companies remain competitive. I look forward to continuing and growing the strong partnership between the Department of Energy and the State of Hawaii.”

About two dozen government and private leaders working on achieving Hawaii’s clean energy goals participated in the roundtable discussion. Subjects ranged from operationalizing of renewable energy, to continued smart grid advancements, biofuel development, and the necessity of an inter-island cable.

“Hawaii is a natural alternative energy test-bed due in large part to the many partnerships we enjoy,” said Senator Inouye. “The U.S. Departments of Energy and Defense are active and valued partners to assist in the rapid deployment of renewable energy technology to reduce our dependency on fossil fuels. We must have the political will to stay the course not just for us but for the next generation. It is time to take our test-bed to the next level.”

Governor Abercrombie added, “The partnership we have with the federal government is a key ingredient in reaching the goals we have as an island state. In reaching these goals, we are not only protecting ourselves from the volatility of outside fossil fuel markets, but are setting standards for the rest of country and the world in the application of clean energy technologies.”

The Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative is a partnership between the state and the U.S. Department of Energy to implement actions to reduce Hawaii’s dependence of fossil fuel oil by 70 percent by 2030.

Secretary Chu is in Honolulu attending the APEC leaders’ week conference. He is charged with helping implement President Obama’s ambitious agenda to invest in clean energy, reduce our dependence on foreign oil, address the global climate crisis and create millions of new jobs. He is a distinguished scientist and the co-winner of the Nobel Prize for Physics (1997). Prior to his appointment, Dr. Chu served as the director of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory.

Today’s roundtable discussion fostered a stronger relationship in moving Hawaii closer to reaching its renewable energy goals. In closing, Secretary Chu expressed great interest in the State’s current energy initiatives stating, “This is very exciting. Hawaii is the perfect test-bed for us.”

Participants included:

Steven Chu, Secretary, U.S. Department of Energy (DOE)
Daniel K. Inouye, U.S. Senator
Neil Abercrombie, Governor
Brian Schatz, Lt. Governor
Jennifer Sabas – U.S. Senator Inouye Chief of Staff
George Kailiwai – PACOM Director of Resources & Assessment Directorate
Richard Carlin – Office of Naval Research, Head, Sea Warfare & Weapons Department
Ross Roley – Senior Military Analyst, PACOM Energy Office,
Joelle Simonpietre – CMDR, PACOM J81, Innovation & Experimentation Energy Team
Steve Lindenberg – DOE, Senior Advisor, Renewable Energy
Jim Spaeth – DOE, Senior Advisor, Pacific Region Office
Richard Lim – Director, Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development & Tourism
Tom Quinn – Director, Hawaii Center for Advance Transportation Technologies
Mark Glick – Administrator, Hawaii State Energy Office
MRC Greenwood – University of Hawaii (UH), President
Jim Gaines – UH, Vice President for Research
Rick Rocheleau – UH, Director, Hawaii Natural Energy Institute
Don Thomas – UH, Director, Center for Study of Active Volcanoes
Andy Hashimoto – UH, Former Dean, College of Tropical Agriculture & HR
Hermina Morita – Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, Chair
Mike Champley – Hawaii Public Utilities Commission, Commissioner
Robbie Alm – Hawaiian Electric Company, Executive Vice President
Colton Ching – Hawaiian Electric Company, Vice President, System Operation & Planning
Edward Reinhardt – Maui Electric Company, President
Joel Matsunaga – Hawaii BioEnergy, Chief Operating Officer
Chris Benjamin – Hawaiian Commercial & Sugar Co. (Maui)
Darren Kimura – Sopogy, President & Chief Operating Officer
Dan O’Connell – HNU Photonics, Chief Operating Officer
Jim Rekoske – Honeywell, Vice President of Renewable Energy
Barry Mizuno – Puna Geothermal Venture, Consultant
Maurice Kaya – Hawaii Renewable Energy Development Venture, Project Director

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For more information, contact:

Donalyn Dela Cruz
Press Secretary
(808) 586-0012
https://hawaii.gov/gov

HAWAII STATE CAPITOL BUILDING TRIMS MORE ENERGY USE DURING EPA’S ENERGY STAR NATIONAL BUILDING COMPETITION

November 2, 2011

For Immediate Release: November 2, 2011

HONOLULU– Employees at the Hawaii State Capitol Building cut back another 32,000 kilowatt hours, saving an additional $2,400 in electricity during the ENERGY STAR National Building Competition: Battle of the Buildings that began on May 2, 2011 and ended on August 31, 2011. The Capitol Building entered the competition with an Energy Star score of 86, which meant it already ranked in the top 15% of similar buildings nationwide. By the end of the competition, it reduced its greenhouse gas emissions by 31 metric tons of CO2 equivalent, while improving its Energy Star score to 87.

The Battle of the Buildings award, however, went to a parking garage on the main campus of the University of Central Florida, which reduced its energy use by 63 percent.

“We were already reducing energy use at the Capitol when we entered the competition, so our results are not as dramatic,” said Mark Glick, Administrator, Department of Business and Economic Development Tourism’s (DBEDT) State Energy Office. “EPA’s competition helped to get the State employees involved with our iConserve and Lead by Example energy saving programs, so it was a great opportunity for us. Occupant participation is an essential part in meeting our long-term energy conservation goals and we are excited by the commitment we’ve seen.”

The State Capitol Building was featured as one of the success stories on EPA’s National Building Competition website at the halfway point of the competition for its unique efforts to engage the building’s occupants.

Even before the EPA competition, the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS), which manages over 50 State facilities, instituted a number of energy-saving projects at the State Capitol and other public buildings. Between fiscal years 2008 and 2009, energy use at the Capitol dropped 11.1% and last year, the State saved $20 million in energy bills due to efficiency and conservation efforts. Since that time, there continues to be additional improvements for further energy reduction.

Energy use in commercial buildings accounts for nearly 20 percent of total U.S. greenhouse gas emissions at a cost of more than $100 billion per year.

In its second year, the EPA competition featured teams from 245 buildings across the country in a head-to-head battle to save energy, reduce costs, and protect Americans’ health and their environment. The competitors together saved more than 240 million kBtus of energy and $5.2 million on utility bills annually. The competitors also prevented greenhouse gas emissions equal to the electricity used by more than 3,600 homes per year. The building with the largest percent-reduction in energy use, adjusted for weather and the size of the building, was the winner.

The State of Hawaii’s economic enterprise is to pursue energy independence by building a clean energy economy and reaching 70 percent clean energy by 2030. The DBEDT State Energy Office’s mission is to act as a catalyst for efficiency measures, renewable energy resources, transportation initiatives, green jobs, and investments in Hawaii’s economy. For more information, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov.

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For more information, contact:

Mark Glick
Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 587-3812

Lois Hamaguchi
Energy Analyst
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 587-9006