DUKE AIONA ARTICULATES CLEAR VISION FOR HAWAI‘I’S ENERGY FUTURE

News Release from Aiona Campaign

HONOLULU (October 14, 2014) – Today at the Gubernatorial Forum on Energy, Duke Aiona articulated his clear vision for a clean energy future that reduces the cost of energy throughout Hawai‘i.

“All solutions which lower the cost of energy must be on the table,” said Aiona. Aiona reinforced his support of lowering energy prices and reducing oil dependency by committing to bringing renewed leadership to the Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative (HCEI), which he supported as Lieutenant Governor. In addition to the HCEI, Aiona committed to keeping the undersea cable as an option, supporting LNG as a transitional fuel and removing the barriers for solar installations.

“The delays on solar installations are costing families thousands of dollars. Instead of presuming that solar installations on homes can’t connect to the grid, the presumption should be that they can connect unless HECO proves otherwise,” said Aiona. “Why should the little guy have to prove there is a problem? The responsibility should be on the utility.” 

Duke Aiona also questioned why the Legislature allowed 60% of the barrel tax, which was introduced to fund increased food security in Hawai‘i, to be funneled into the general fund rather than for its original purpose. He was clear on his position of yet another tax on the people of Hawai‘i: “Either put 100% of those funds for their intended purpose or get rid of it, how about that?”

Duke Aiona’s position on the Public Utilities Commission (PUC) is clear: “I will fund the PUC, appoint professional and capable directors and provide clear direction to lower the cost of energy to the ratepayer.”

To reduce the cost of energy, and in response to Hawai‘i’s energy monopoly, Duke Aiona’s energy policy also includes clearing the path for a separate transmission and distribution utility, and loosening barriers for communities and neighborhoods to create energy co-ops.

By removing uncertainty, providing a clear vision and policy clarity, Duke Aiona once again shows how his leadership will set Hawai‘i on a new path.

For more information, please visit his website: www.dukeaiona.com.

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