Amanda Ho, Author at Hawai‘i State Energy Office

DBEDT LAUNCHES INNOVATIVE GREENSUN HAWAII PROGRAM FOR ENERGY EFFICIENCY FINANCING

October 26, 2011

For Immediate Release: October 26, 2011

HONOLULU –The State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) and Hawaii Community Reinvestment Corporation (HCRC) today announced the launch of GreenSun Hawaii, an innovative energy financing credit enhancement program made available through a Recovery Act grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.

In partnership with approved Hawaii-based solar contractors, the program enables customers to apply for financing for solar water heating and other energy-efficient equipment with up to three participating lenders of their choice through an easy-to-use online application. The improvements will reduce overall energy consumption and ultimately, yield significant cost savings to property owners. GreenSun Hawaii loans will feature longer terms and lower interest rates than loans offered outside of the program. The goal is to provide financing options that will result in lower monthly payments in comparison to the customers’ current utility bills.

“GreenSun is a great example on how we are leveraging federal funds to put money in local people’s pockets,” said Governor Neil Abercrombie. “This $2.69 million investment can grow to millions in loans that will lower the state’s consumption of imported oil and free up consumer dollars through energy savings. It helps our people, it protects our aina, and it contributes to our local economy.”

GreenSun Hawaii is intended to stimulate affordable private lending for energy efficiency and renewable energy installations by covering part of a lender’s risk. It is anticipated that a number of financial institutions will participate in the program and extend financing with competitive terms and rates to a larger pool of customers. Structured as a long-term public-private partnership, the GreenSun Hawaii program is capable of leveraging $2.691 million in federal funds into $98.5 million in clean energy loans over the next 15 years.

“It’s a major step in fulfilling the Governor’s New Day plan to further energy independence,” said DBEDT Director Richard Lim. “The GreenSun Hawaii loans program will increase the ability of participants to qualify and afford the upfront costs of energy efficiency improvements, which will pay for themselves through energy savings for many years to come.

Capitalized with $2.691 million in federal funds, GreenSun Hawaii provides partner financial institutions access to a loan loss reserve which may cover between 10 to 100 percent of defaults on eligible energy efficiency and renewal energy system financing. For every loan that is approved under the GreenSun Hawaii program, HCRC will deposit between four to fourteen percent into a reserve account to be made available to the lender in the event of a default. As loans are repaid, the funds will be reinvested into new clean energy loans.

“Because of state and federal tax rebates, Hawaii has the most solar water heaters and is second in solar electric installations in the country. Now, we can make these and other energy- saving technologies available to more people, especially those who have not been able to afford upfront costs,” said Mark Glick, Administrator of DBEDT’s State Energy Office. “The rebates are available only after spending the money on the equipment, but GreenSun financing take it a step further by allowing more residents and businesses to buy the equipment, save on their electric bills, and help us get to our goal of 70% clean energy by 2030.”

“GreenSun Hawaii aims to afford everyone (residential and non-residential property owners) in Hawaii the opportunity to take advantage of the abundant solar power that exists throughout our islands,” said Gwen Yamamoto Lau, president of HCRC. “With $4 billion annually flowing out of Hawaii to meet our energy needs, it’s important that we find innovative ways to increase our energy efficiency while saving money, both individually and collectively.”

Lenders and contractors who want to participate in the GreenSun Hawaii program are encouraged to contact HCRC. Currently, participating lenders and authorized contractors include:
Lenders:
o Hawaii National Bank
o Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union
o Hawaii USA Federal Credit Union
o IEG Federal Credit Union
o Kauai Community Federal Credit Union
o Maui County Federal Credit Union
o NAVFAC Federal Credit Union
o The Queen’s Federal Credit Union
o Wailuku Federal Credit Union

Contractors
o C & J Solar Solutions, LLC
o EnergyPro Hawaii
o Kumukit / Hawaii Energy Connection
o Maui Pacific Solar, Inc.
o PhotonWorks Engineering, LLP
o Renewable Energy Services, Inc.
o RevoluSun
o Sunetric

Dr. Tawn Keeney, owner of the Honokaa People’s Theater, which is one of the oldest and largest theatres in Hawaii, is one of the first recipients of the GreenSun Hawaii program. “With the financial help from The Queen’s Federal Credit Union and the installation of the solar electric (photovoltaic) equipment by Renewable Energy Services, Inc., GreenSun Hawaii has allowed me to achieve my goal to making the theater more sustainable,” said Dr. Keeney. “With this program, we will be able to reduce our operating expenses while having tangible positive environmental impacts in our community such as avoiding an estimated 720,000 lbs. of CO2 and reducing the use of 11,688 gallons of oil, which can be used over the life of the system. What’s interesting is that this amount is equivalent to planting 1,736 trees.”

For more information about GreenSun Hawaii, including loan application and solar contractor and financial institution listings, please visit: www.greensunhawaii.com.

About Hawaii Community Reinvestment Corporation
Hawaii Community Reinvestment Corporation (HCRC) is a community-based non-profit 501(c)3 organization founded in 1990 to facilitate affordable housing, community development and economic development statewide. Designated as a Community Development Financial Institution, Community Development Entity and Certified Development Company, HCRC provides below market, long-term fixed rate financing for multi-family rental projects and SBA 504 loans to small business owners.

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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

Gwen Yamamoto Lau
President, HCRC
Phone: (808) 532-3113

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RISE PROGRAM TRAINS WORKERS FOR ENERGY, CLIMATE CHANGE, SUSTAINABILITY CAREERS

October 20, 2011

For Immediate Release: October 20, 2011

HONOLULU – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) announced seven new graduates, masters and college students will intern with a wide variety of environmental projects for DBEDT’s State Energy Office, Honolulu Board of Water Supply, and the State Department of Health.

The interns, who were selected for the EPA’s “Rewarding Internships in Sustainable Employment” (RISE) program, will be working to expand the Hawaii Green Business Program, a partnership between DBEDT, Department of Health, the Chamber of Commerce of Hawaii, the City and County Recycling Office and Honolulu Board of Water Supply. RISE is committed to help build the capacity of Hawaii’s workforce to move the State toward a more sustainable future. The Hawaii Green Business Program recognizes hotels/resorts, office/retail, restaurant/food service, and government organizations that have committed to going beyond compliance and reducing their impact on the environment. To date, 52 businesses and organizations in Hawaii have been recognized by this initiative.

The interns will be assisting in increasing the number of businesses and government organizations to implement green measures in the areas of energy, water, and resource conservation and pollution prevention. In addition, the interns will be working on other related projects such as green building projects, landscape irrigation issues, and recycling programs.

“Building a clean energy economy is a State priority, and we must have a work force that is trained and ready for green business jobs,” said Mark Glick, administrator of DBEDT’s State Energy Office. “Our incoming RISE interns have diverse backgrounds and with on-the-job exposure and training. We selected these highly qualified students from a number of applicants and will be working with them to expand their qualifications and expertise to contribute to the State’s goal of 70 percent clean energy within one generation.”

State Dept. of Business, Economic Development and Tourism interns:
• Chris Barzman, a Master’s Candidate in Global Leadership and Sustainable Development at Hawaii Pacific University emphasizing in Sustainable Tourism Systems.
• Chris Gore, a recent Environmental Policy and Science and Business Administration graduate from McDaniel College.
• Jacqueline Lum, a recent Environmental Engineering graduate from University of California at Merced.

Honolulu Board of Water Supply interns:
• Davide Giardini, a recent Environmental Science and Economics graduate from Roger Williams University.
• Kapiolani Street, a current Civil Engineering (Environmental track) and Anthropology student at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

State Department of Health interns:
• Tyson Kanzaki, a current Master of Environmental Engineering student from Umwelt-Campus in Birkenfeld, Germany.
• Brian Wilson, a current Master of Global Leadership and Sustainable Development student at Hawaii Pacific University, graduate from New England School of Law.

The Rewarding Internships in Sustainable Employment (RISE) is an internship program developed to provide college students and recent graduates in Hawaii with paid work experiences with different public and private organizations in the State. RISE is committed to help build the capacity of Hawaii’s workforce to move the State toward a more sustainable future. In addition to the seven new interns, there are 13 other RISE interns working at Dept. of Education, Department of Health, Honolulu Clean Cities on a variety of renewable and energy efficiency projects.

RISE is a collaborative effort of a number of organizations, including DBEDT, Department of Education, Department of Health, University of Hawaii, Kupu, Honolulu Clean Cities, and the Environmental Protection Agency. RISE provides job training opportunities, as well as an engaging Sustainability Seminar Series. The seminars are intended to provide sustainability training, project specific trainings and workshops, a speaker series, volunteer opportunities, community outreach events, and field trips in order to engage the interns in different sustainability projects in Hawaii.

“The experiences gained by the interns will provide the cornerstone for the sustainable green workforce in Hawaii,” said Asia Yeary, EPA’s project coordinator. “They will be pioneers leading the way for the many exciting and challenging green industries and jobs, leading to a more sustainable environment and a cleaner environment.”

Additional RISE intern projects will begin throughout the year. For additional information on RISE, contact Marguerite Harden at [email protected] if you are interested in funding, hiring or becoming a RISE intern.

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 green jobs, efficiency measures, renewable energy resources, transportation initiatives, and investments in Hawaii’s economy. For more information, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov

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For more information, contact:

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

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

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MARK GLICK APPOINTED ENERGY ADMINISTRATOR OF DBEDT’S STATE ENERGY OFFICE

October 17, 2011

For Immediate Release: October 17, 2011

HONOLULU—Mark Glick has been appointed administrator of the State Energy Office of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT) to manage, develop, oversee and implement statewide energy programs, policies, and initiatives that support the State’s clean energy objectives. Glick was appointed to the post after managing DBEDT’s $9.5 million Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant and advising the Hawaii Economic Development Task Force created by The Food and Energy Security Act.

“Mark’s pioneering work in clean energy policy and project management, environmental stewardship, finance and federal and state grant acquisition will be valuable in building a clean energy economy for Hawaii,” said DBEDT Director Richard Lim. “I’m confident that his commitment and drive will energize our efforts to create green initiatives and jobs for Hawaii.”

Prior to joining DBEDT, Glick headed operations and economic development for the Office of Hawaiian Affairs, where he was the architect of changes to increase the productivity of the agency’s 17-year-old low-interest financing program. Glick also led efforts to help Hawaii businesses secure more federal and state contracts with the establishment of the Hawaii Procurement Technical Assistance Center.

Glick was at the forefront of establishing alternative fuel policies and programs as senior advisor to the Texas Land Commissioner from 1987 to 1991, when he played a decisive role in passage of landmark amendments to the Texas Clean Air Act and similar amendments to the federal Clean Air Act. He also owned a small business focused on reducing air pollution in urban areas, and securing contracts and grants for clean fuel and emissions reductions projects from the U.S. Department of Energy, the Gas Research Institute, Southern California Gas Company, Pacific Gas & Electric and the New York City Department of Transportation in Los Angeles, Boston, San Francisco and New York City.

The State of Hawaii’s most important economic enterprise is to build a clean energy economy and reach 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 policies that lead to green jobs and investments in Hawaii’s economy. While we are saving energy and dollars through energy efficiency measures, we are also contributing to protecting our environment and moving towards a clean energy future. For more information, visit www.energy.hawaii.gov.

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For more information, contact:

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

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

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HAWAII TO HOST 3RD ANNUAL ASIA PACIFIC CLEAN ENERGY SUMMIT AND EXPO SEPTEMBER 12-15

August 9, 2011

For Immediate Release: August 9, 2011

HONOLULU–Leaders and experts at the forefront of the global clean energy movement will be convening at the Hawaii Convention Center for the 3rd Annual Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit and Expo, to be hosted by the State of Hawaii on September 12-15 in Honolulu. An estimated 1,200 industry and government participants from more than 20 countries will attend the conference, which aims to enable exchanges of ideas and partnership opportunities with global corporations, start-ups, investors, policy makers, and utilities involved in clean energy transformation.

“Hawa‘i is hosting this international symposium because, as an island state that must import most of our fuel, energy independence is among our most important economic enterprises,” said Estrella Seese, acting energy program administrator of the DBEDT’s Energy Office, organizer of the Summit and Expo. “Hawaii‘s goal to achieve 70% clean energy by 2030 is ambitious, and we are making strides toward that goal by expanding economic activity, entrepreneurship, and public/private participation. We look forward to sharing experiences, discovering solutions and collaborating with experts and policy makers from around the world.”

“Hawaii is an ideal location to test and demonstrate clean energy and efficiency initiatives. As one of the world’s leading incubators of clean technology development, it is the perfect place for the Asia Pacific Clean Energy Summit,” said Patricia Glaza, executive director of Clean Technology and Sustainable Industries Organization (CTSI), a national organization established to advance the commercialization and adoption of clean technologies and sustainable industry practices. CTSI is co-sponsoring the Summit.

To showcase global best practices and new business opportunities, the Summit program will open with a plenary address from Governor Neil Abercrombie and venture capitalist and energy and security expert R. James Woolsey. Woolsey, former director of the Central Intelligence Agency, is now chair of a Washington D.C. based private equity fund specializing in energy and security issues. He serves on the National Commission on Energy Policy.

Panel discussions will focus on accelerating the use of various renewable energy resources such as biomass, wind, solar, hydroelectric, ocean thermal, geothermal, and waste-to-energy; financing and incentivizing energy efficiency; and developing public policies, resources, and workforce training programs to build a clean energy industry.

This year’s program is offering a full conference track on the U.S. Department of Defense’s clean energy programs. Representatives from the Army, Navy, Air Force and Marines will be presenting key military initiatives, technology priorities, and practical guidance on developing partnerships and contracts. CTSI is also coordinating a new technology identification program focused on bringing innovative military-targeted clean energy solutions.

The Summit’s Expo will offer exhibits, services and the latest energy technologies. Summit co-sponsors include the University of Hawaii, Hawaiian Electric Company, Lockheed Martin, AECOM, Phycal, Sempra Generation, Aerovironment, General Atomics, SAIC, ALSTOM, FirstWind, GM, The Gas Company, Pacific Biodiesel, etc.

Special rates are available for Hawaii-based attendees, government, and academic representatives. For registration and program information, go to www.asiapacificcleanenergy.com.

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For more information, contact:

Estrella Seese
Acting Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 586-2352

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

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HAWAII’S STATE CAPITOL BUILDING CELEBRATES SAVINGS AT THE MIDPOINT OF EPA’S ENERGY STAR NATIONAL BUILDING COMPETITION

July 28, 2011

For Immediate Release: July 28, 2011

HONOLULU – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) ENERGY STAR program marked the midpoint of the 2011 National Building Competition: Battle of the Buildings by releasing a list of Top Contenders for each building category as well as the progress of all participants in the competition. The State Capitol building was named a finalist in the Office building category.

Teams from 245 buildings around the country are going head-to-head in this year’s ENERGY STAR National Building Competition to see who can reduce their energy use the most. In the first six months of the competition alone, the competitors together have saved more than $3.7 million on utility bills and reduced greenhouse gas emissions equal to the electricity used by 2,300 homes annually.

As part of DBEDT’s Lead by Example energy efficiency program, state departments reduced total electric consumption by 2.8 percent from 2009 and saved more than $20 million in energy costs statewide.

“We encourage the public to continue their energy efficiency practices as each of us can contribute to reduce our consumption of imported oil,” said Estrella Seese, Acting Energy Program Administrator, State Energy Office. “We’ve received strong support from EPA’s ENERGY STAR program and look forward to even greater success in the remaining months of the competition.”

As of the midpoint of the competition, the State Capitol building has reduced its energy use through a variety of strategies, including mechanical, lighting, and plumbing upgrades, efficient operations, and an occupant behavior change campaign.

In 2007, the Energy Star Portfolio Manager score for the State Capitol Building was 57 with an Energy Usage Intensity (EUI) of 237.4 kBtu/sq. ft., meaning that the building was average in comparison to similar buildings nationwide. At present, the State Capitol Building has an Energy Star Portfolio Manager score of 86, meaning it qualifies for the Energy Star Building designation and ranks in the top 15% of similar buildings nationwide. The current EUI is 183.3 kBtu/Sq. Ft.

“Competitors in the second year of the ENERGY STAR Battle of the Buildings are already achieving energy-savings that really pack a punch,” said EPA Assistant Administrator for Air and Radiation, Gina McCarthy. “The stories behind these energy-savings speak to the dedication of American businesses and organizations to protecting the environment and public health, and to economic common sense.”

The competition includes 26 different types of commercial buildings across 33 states and the District of Columbia. Competitors measure and track their building’s monthly energy consumption using EPA’s ENERGY STAR online energy tracking tool, Portfolio Manager. The building with the largest percentage reduction in energy use, adjusted for weather and the size of the building, will be recognized as the winner in November. The competitors exchange ideas and strategies through various social media applications, including a live Twitter feed and a Facebook forum. Information about all competitors, including photos and facts about each along with energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions data, is available on the competition website.

ENERGY STAR was started by EPA in 1992 as a market-based partnership to reduce greenhouse gas emissions through energy efficiency. Today, the ENERGY STAR label can be found on more than 60 different kinds of products as well as new homes and commercial and industrial buildings that meet strict energy-efficiency specifications set by EPA. Last year alone, Americans, with the help of ENERGY STAR, saved about $18 billion on their energy bills while preventing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to the annual emissions of 33 million vehicles.

List of Top Contenders and complete midpoint results for all competitors: https://www.energystar.gov/BattleOfTheBuildings For additional information please go to https://www.facebook.com/pages/Hawaii-State-Capitol-Building/181937041856016 or https://www.noresco.com/hi/.

The State of Hawaii’s most important economic enterprise is to pursue energy independence by building a clean energy economy and reaching 70% 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:

Estrella Seese
Acting Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 586-2352

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

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FIRST PUBLIC ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGER AT THE STATE CAPITOL

July 27, 2011

For Immediate Release: July 27, 2011

HONOLULU – Governor Neil Abercrombie today unveiled the first electric vehicle charger at the State Capitol, located in the building’s underground parking garage. The charging station, which accepts major credit cards and requires no membership, is available to all electric vehicle owners and is the first of many charging stations to be installed across the state as part of the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism’s (DBEDT) EV Ready Program.

At the State Capitol, it will cost EV drivers $2 an hour to charge, with a maximum of four hours. Charging times vary depending on the range of the car, but generally an hour of charging provides about 15 miles of range.

“Our vision for the future is that it becomes more common and accessible for people to drive electric vehicles,” Governor Abercrombie said. “The first public charging station for electric vehicles is a step toward a clean energy future, and every single step is important.”

Through this program, the state is supporting the transformation of Hawaii’s transportation sector to be less dependent on petroleum and becoming electric vehicle friendly by installing approximately five charging stations at State owned buildings downtown and adding a small fleet of electric vehicles to the State motor pool. In June, the State received its first electric vehicles, two Nissan all-electric Leafs. The Hawaii State Energy Office and state motor pool currently have the vehicles.

Honolulu-based Volta Industries installed the Eaton Corporation charger equipped with a credit card- swipe system, at the State Capitol. The charger is a Level 2, 240-volt station, using the industry-standard J1772 connector, which is compatible with all new electric cars currently in production. The cost of the charger unit and installation was approximately $8,000.

In 2009, $4 million of the State Energy Program’s American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) stimulus funding was allocated to the Transportation Energy Diversification EV Ready Program. DBEDT provided $475,500 of federal ARRA stimulus funds to the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) Automotive Management Division to assist Hawaii State governments comply with statutory requirements for electric vehicle parking and to lead by example through the purchase of advanced technology vehicles such as electric or plug-in hybrid electric vehicles, and electric vehicle supply equipment (EV charging stations).

“Hawaii is charging ahead and making charging stations more accessible to people choosing to drive electric vehicles. We are committed to a smaller carbon footprint, 70 percent clean energy by 2030 and opportunities help protect our environment,” said Bruce Coppa, Director, State Department of Accounting and General Services.

The Capitol station, located in the State Capitol underground parking garage, is accessible via Miller Street off of Punchbowl Street, is open to the public during operating hours; 4:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday; 6:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Saturdays; closed on Sundays.

“Hawaii drivers now have a convenient charging facility downtown. Thanks to our success in securing federal funding, this is the first of an entire network of charging stations we plan to install throughout the state, as we build an infrastructure that will maintain Hawaii’s leadership in electric vehicles and entice more manufacturers to Hawaii,” said Richard Lim, Director, State Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism.

DBEDT’s EV Ready Grant Program has awarded $2.6 million in federal stimulus funds to six organizations to accelerate Hawaii’s adoption of electric vehicles and related charging equipment. Another $1.4 million in federal stimulus money was allocated to the EV Ready Rebate Program, which allows rebates of up to $4,500 toward the purchase of new electric vehicles. Rebates of up to $500 are also available for the purchase and installation of new electric vehicle chargers in homes or business sites. Rebate forms are available on DBEDT’s Energy office electric vehicle website, https://electricvehicle.hawaii.gov.

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) and up to $1,000 for individual buyers and up to $30,000 for businesses installing EV charger stations.

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.hawaii.gov/dbedt/energy and https://electricvehicle.hawaii.gov.

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For more information, contact:

Estrella Seese
Acting Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 586-2352

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

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DEADLINE EXTENDED THROUGH JANUARY 2012 FOR ELECTRIC VEHICLE REBATES

July 25, 2011

For Immediate Release: July 25, 2011

HONOLULU –The state extended the deadline to January 31, 2012 for residents to apply for rebates on new electric or hybrid electric/gasoline cars and chargers.

From early January to mid-July, 128 rebates have been approved for 68 electric vehicles and 60 chargers, with $1,068,988 remaining in funding.

“We want to empower more Hawaii residents with the opportunity to contribute to Hawaii’s goal of becoming more energy efficient and increase our energy security,” said Estrella Seese, acting energy program administrator for the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism’s Energy Office. “Our top economic priority as a state is energy independence. The extension of the rebates for electric vehicles and chargers is good news for consumers who wish to purchase them.”

Electric vehicles are twice as energy efficient as the average gasoline-powered car. The rebates are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Rebate forms are available on DBEDT’s Energy office website at https://electricvehicle.hawaii.gov.

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) and up to $1,000 for individual buyers and $30,000 for businesses installing EV charger stations. This allows for the potential of up to $13,500 in rebates and tax credits for an individual.

The state anticipates an increase in consumer demand for new electric vehicles for the last quarter of this year and extended its original deadline for tax rebates from September 2011 for another four months.

Hawaii is among the states designated for early release of the first EVs produced by manufacturers such as the Nissan Leaf, Wheego Life, GM Volt, and Mitsubishi i (MiEV). Many 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 strong tourism industry are ideal for EV utilization.
• DBEDT’s Hawaii Electric Vehicle EV Ready Program has 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 EV Ready Program is funded by $1.4 million in Federal stimulus funds administered by DBEDT.

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.hawaii.gov/dbedt/energy.

###

For more information, contact:

Estrella Seese
Acting Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 586-2352

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

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STATE OF HAWAII CAPITAL DISTRICT CLEAN ENERGY PROJECTS TO SAVE 30 PERCENT IN ENERGY COSTS

July 13, 2011

For Immediate Release: July 13, 2011

HONOLULU – The State of Hawaii’s Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) has completed the installation of 1,005 solar photovoltaic (PV) panels on the Kalanimoku Building in the downtown Honolulu Capital District as part of the State’s ongoing efforts to lead by example in reducing Hawaii’s dependence on imported oil. The system is already saving 12 percent of the building’s use, resulting in $300 of daily savings in electricity costs.

Energy-saving projects in nine other buildings in the Capitol District are scheduled for completion in September. The Capitol District projects are expected to save the State 30 percent in utility costs.

Kalanimoku’s PV panels, each rated at 236.2 watts of direct current (DC) power generating capacity, has been producing electricity at or above its expected monthly output. Annually, the system will generate a minimum of 296,849 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of clean energy and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by about 500,000 pounds (carbon dioxide equivalents). Depending on weather conditions, the PV system could produce as much as 374,810 kWh each year for a reduction of 564,000 pounds of green house gas emissions.

A public information kiosk on the ground floor lobby displays the output of the PV system and will eventually have energy efficiency information for the 10 Capital District state buildings.

“The Kalanimoku Building is a great example of how best to use clean energy to reduce our use of imported oil, keep the money we would have spent on oil in our economy, and save taxpayer dollars. The Capital District includes other examples of being green and I am confident that we’re moving closer towards our goal of 70 percent clean energy for Hawaii,” said Richard Lim director of the State Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism (DBEDT). The Kalanimoku Building PV project is made possible by $2.97 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA) Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant provided by the U.S. Department of Energy through DBEDT’s Energy Office.

“It is imperative that we aggressively implement actions to make our facilities more energy efficient, and environmentally sustainable,” said Bruce Coppa, director of the State Accounting and General Services. “To ensure our commitment, we are developing another energy savings performance contracting project involving 30 more of our DAGS buildings statewide. Efficiency and sustainability are where we need to be in our State facilities.”

The Kalanimoku PV project is part of the $33.9 million Energy Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) project awarded by DAGS in 2009 to improve the energy efficiency for 10 office buildings, located in the downtown State Capital District, with high annual utility bills. The ESPC project will reduce total energy consumption in the 10 buildings by about 30 percent, about 6.3 million kWh of energy per year, enough to power more than 10,000 homes. The 10 buildings are the State Capitol, Kalanimoku, Keelikolani, Kekauluohi (State Archives), Kekaunaoa, Keoni Ana, Kinau Hale, Queen Liliuokalani, No. 1 Capitol District, and Leiopapa a Kamehameha.

Energy conservation measures being implemented under the ESPC project include a new energy management system for all 10 buildings, improvements to air conditioning equipment, lighting systems, water conservation, weather-based control for landscape irrigation systems, building envelope modifications, desktop computer power management, and an energy conservation educational program for building occupants. Implementation is about 80 percent complete and Noresco performance guarantees are expected to start by September 2011.

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For more information, contact:

Estrella Seese
Acting Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 586-2352

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

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STATE EMPLOYEES RALLY TO CONSERVE ENERGY

June 29, 2011

For Immediate Release: June 29, 2011

HONOLULU – State employees from 16 departments are converging at the State Capitol at noon today (Wednesday, June 29), to launch the iConserve energy-saving campaign for all state employees to become more energy efficient.

The State Capitol was selected as a semifinalist in the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2011 Energy Star National Building Competition aimed at reducing energy use.

“As state employees, we can be a catalyst for change and we must lead by example through our continued energy-savings practices,” said Governor Abercrombie, who is leading the iConserve effort to encourage energy efficiency practices by employees in all state government offices. “Last year, the state saved $20 million in electricity costs through conserving energy. We want to top that figure so we can use that money to bring more services to our people.”

Green Champions from all State offices, designated to encourage employee participation in iConserve, are joining Governor Abercrombie and Lt. Governor Brian Schatz, government officials, legislators, and public employees at the rally, which is open to the public.

Energy-saving giveaways are available while supplies last from exhibitors such as Blue Planet Foundation, DBEDT’s State Energy Office, DLIR’s Workforce Development, Hawaii Energy, Hawaii Solar Energy Association, HECO, Kanu Hawaii, Kokua Hawaii Foundation, KUPU/RISE, Noresco, and US Green Building Council. Jive Nene, a musical group comprised of local “green” advocates Jeff Mikulina, Mark Glick, Isaac Moriwake and Simone Cole, are performing.

“Energy efficiency is the fastest, cheapest, and smartest way for state employees and the public to contribute to reduce our consumption of imported oil,” said Richard Lim, Director, State Department of Business Economic Development and Tourism. “In the last five years, state agencies’ energy use fell by 5.1 percent. We can and are doing more.”

“With in-house energy efficiency upgrades to lighting and air conditioning, as well as waterconserving fixtures and changes to building operations put in place by the Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) two years ago, energy use at the State Capitol dropped 11 percent. This September, we’ll be completing more energy-saving improvements at the Capitol and nine other State offices, with projected savings of $64 million over the 20 year life of the equipment,” said Bruce Coppa, Director, State Department of Accounting and General Services.

DAGS has contracted an energy company, NORESCO, to implement efficiency improvements in public buildings. DAGS and NORESCO have offered a number of training sessions designed to inform and encourage state employees to save energy through simple steps (see below).

During fiscal year 2010, state departments reduced total electric consumption by 2.8 percent from 2009 and saved more than $20 million in energy costs statewide, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism’s (DBEDT) annual Lead By Example (LBE) report. Other Lead By Example projects are detailed in the full report that can be accessed online at: https://hawaii.gov/dbedt/info/energy/efficiency/state/lbe/stateemployees.

iConserve’s Easy Steps to Save Energy at the Office
Here are just four easy tips to save energy in the office.
• Turn off the lights. Lighting accounts for 25-40% of an office building’s energy use.
• If all employees within the 10 Energy Savings Performance Contracted buildings hibernated or shut down their work stations while absent (lunch hour), it would save the state approximately $35,283 annually.
• Turn off power strips, unplug chargers and remove personal appliances. Example: If 100 people removed their mini-fridges, it can save the state approximately $6,489 annually.
• Shut the doors. Open doors allow precious air conditioning to escape. Closing doors saves the state up to $5,500 annually per door.

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For more information, contact:

Estrella Seese
Acting Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 586-2352

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

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STATE AGENCIES LEAD BY EXAMPLE IN ENERGY CONSERVATION EFFORTS

May 25, 2011

For Immediate Release: May 25, 2011

HONOLULU – During fiscal year 2010, state departments reduced their total electric consumption by 2.8 percent from 2009 and saved more than $20 million in energy costs statewide, according to the Department of Business, Economic Development, and Tourism‟s (DBEDT) annual Lead By Example (LBE) report to the State Legislature.

The 2010 decline in the state‟s energy consumption is the third consecutive year agencies have managed to cut energy use; 2010 also marked the first time state agencies were able to decrease costs from the previous year. This promising turnaround reflects the State‟s ongoing commitment to implement energy efficiency and renewable energy development to protect against escalating energy costs, expedite energy security, and mitigate negative impacts on our economy due to volatile world oil markets.

“By aggressively pursuing energy-efficiency improvements in public buildings, we‟re saving the State millions of dollars in electricity costs,” said Richard Lim, Director, Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. “The State is leading by example. New efficiency projects now underway will save millions more. For example, energy improvements scheduled for 10 downtown public buildings are expected to save $64 million over the 20 year life of the equipment to be installed.”

The LBE report outlines the progress made by state agencies in the areas of energy efficiency, renewable energy, transportation, green buildings, and environmentally preferable purchasing during fiscal year 2010. Some highlights follow:

The Energy Services Coalition, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting performance contracting, recognized the State of Hawaii as the second in the nation in Energy Savings Performance Contracts (ESPC) for State Building Efficiency.
The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) initiated the process to solicit proposals for a Phase II ESPC, which will cover 33 buildings. DAGS assisted the Department of Public Safety (PSD) with initiating an ESPC for two prisons, Oahu Community Correctional Facilities, and one jail. The Department of Transportation (DOT) drafted an ESPC for 15 airports, five (5) harbors, and highways facilities. The University of Hawaii Community Colleges (UH-CC) are engaged in executing performance contracts that will implement major energy conservation measures in their portfolio of buildings.
Thirteen (13) state buildings have received ENERGY STAR® awards, acknowledging that they rank in the top 25% of similar buildings nationwide. Seven (7) state buildings are Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified. An additional 52 LEED projects are in the process toward the goal of certification.
DOT issued a request for proposals (RFP) for PV or other renewable energy generation systems at over 20 facilities statewide (15 airports, 5 harbors facilities, Foreign Trade Zone, and UH Coconut Island Marine Research Facility).
DAGS installed a 200 kilowatt (kW) PV system for the Kalanimoku Building located in the Capitol District.

Other Lead By Example projects are detailed in the full report that can be accessed online at: https://hawaii.gov/dbedt/info/energy/efficiency/state/lbe/stateemployees.

The Lead By Example initiative began in 2006 in response to legislative and executive mandates to improve energy efficiency in the state executive branch agencies.

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For more information, contact:

Estrella Seese
Acting Energy Program Administrator
DBEDT’s State Energy Office
Phone: (808) 586-2352

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