Promoting a Clean Energy Future

Lt. Governor Aiona on Thursday announced at a news conference at the State Capitol that Hawai`i residents will soon be able to save money on new energy-efficient refrigerators when they replace their old models, as a result of $2 million in federal stimulus funds allocated to the State of Hawai`i to be used for Energy Star appliance rebates.

Lt. Governor Aiona, with Ray Starling, Hawai`i Energy program manager and Ted Liu, director of DBEDT, announces energy-efficient programs that provide rebates for Hawai`i consumers.

Starting on May 24, Hawai`i's Energy Star Refrigerator Rebate Program will offer a $250 cash incentive to consumers statewide, while helping to accelerate the state's Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative goal of 70 percent clean energy by 2030.

Similar to the Cash for Clunkers program that took old gas-guzzling cars off the road, Hawai`i's program replaces inefficient refrigerators with more efficient ones. This mail-in rebate program is on a first-come, first-serve basis, and is subject to availability of funds. Participating retailers have allotments that may be depleted quickly, depending on demand.

"Through innovation and collaborative programs, we are making significant progress in transforming Hawai`i from the most imported-oil dependent state in the nation, into a true leader for clean and sustainable energy," Lt. Governor Aiona said.

In addition, at the news conference it was announced Hawai`i residents who purchase new electric vehicles or install electric vehicle chargers after Aug. 1 may be eligible for rebates or grants under the Hawai`i Electric Vehicle (EV) Ready Program.

A total of $4 million in Federal stimulus funds allocated to Hawai`i for transportation energy transformation will be made available to Hawai`i residents and businesses for the purchase of electric vehicles and installation of electric vehicle chargers. 

Rebates of up to $4,500 will be available for each new, highway-capable electric or plug in hybrid electric vehicle; rebates of up to $500 will be available for the purchase and installation of each new electric vehicle charger; and, if an electric vehicle purchase includes the installation of a charger, a combined rebate of up to $5,000 will be available.  A grant program is also planned, and will provide funding assistance for larger, multi-site or multi-partner projects.

Read a news release on the Hawai`i's Energy Star Refrigerator Rebate Program.

Read a news release on the Hawai`i Electric Vehicle Ready Program.

---30---

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZDPQY0kNSw

RELATED: Finnegan announces candidacy for Lt Governor