Honolulu, Hawai‘i – Hawaiʻi Energy, the state’s Public Benefits Fund administrator that focuses on energy-efficiency education and clean-energy initiatives, announced today that the application period for its Wai‘anae Appliance Trade-Up Program is now open through March 18, 2024. In partnership with Makaha Learning Center, the program provides the opportunity for Wai‘anae residents to exchange their old, working refrigerator and/or freezer for a brand-new ENERGY STAR® certified one for as low as $250.
“Hawai‘i Energy is proud to partner with Makaha Learning Center to help residents of Wai‘anae save energy and money by making small changes to their home,” said Caroline Carl, executive director, Hawai‘i Energy. “Since launching this program two years ago, we have distributed 255 new energy-efficient appliances to more than 200 households. These small changes, like upgrading an old refrigerator to a new energy-efficient model, can help reduce monthly electricity costs by as much as 50%.”
Through the Appliance Trade-Up Program, Wai‘anae residents are eligible to receive a brand-new ENERGY STAR® certified refrigerator and/or freezer for as low as $250 in exchange for surrendering their old, working unit(s). In addition to the nearly 70% reduction in price compared to retail stores, Hawai‘i Energy provides free delivery and haul-away of old units. Since launching the program in 2022, the appliances are expected to provide over $182,000 in electricity bill savings for Wai‘anae residents over their lifetimes.
“The Appliance Trade-Up program is a partnership we are grateful to have with Hawai‘i Energy and share with our Wai‘anae Coast residents,” Makaha Learning Center President, Danielle “Duckie” Irwin explained. “This is a much-needed program that offers an opportunity to trade up for subsidized appliances to families, who otherwise would face financial difficulties,” Irwin added.
Wai‘anae residents are also eligible for free energy-efficient household products through Hawai‘i Energy’s Energy Smart 4 Homes program, which includes a free, professional installation of LED light bulbs, high-efficiency showerheads and faucet aerators for kitchen and bath, and advanced power strips. The products are valued at more than $150 and can reduce electricity costs by up to $340 per year, per household.
Over the last five years, Hawai‘i Energy has expanded its portfolio of incentives and services by placing greater emphasis on access and affordability for underserved communities across the state. Hawai‘i Energy has partnered with other local organizations to offer Appliance Trade-Up Programs in Koʻolauloa, Hāna, Molokaʻi, Puna, North Kohala, and Waimānalo.
For more information about the energy-saving offers currently available for residents of Wai’anae, and to apply, visit www.HawaiiEnergy.com/WAIANAE.