Honolulu, Hawai‘i – Hawaiʻi Energy, the state’s energy conservation program, has launched an
Appliance Trade-Up Program to help Honolulu residents lower energy use and manage rising
electricity costs by replacing older, inefficient appliances. The program is available to residents
living in zip codes 96817 and 96819, including Chinatown, Fort Shafter, Kalihi, Kapālama, Liliha,
Moanalua, and Nuʻuanu. Eligible residents can trade in a working refrigerator or freezer for a
new energy-efficient ENERGY STAR® model for as low as $250. The deadline to apply is
April 15, 2026.
“We know rising energy costs are putting a strain on many households, especially for families
already making tough choices,” said Caroline Carl, executive director of Hawaiʻi Energy.
“Reducing energy use is one of the most immediate ways to lower monthly costs, and replacing
an older refrigerator or freezer can make a meaningful difference. Programs like our Appliance
Trade-Up are designed to meet residents where they live and help families save money while
also reducing overall energy demand as Hawaiʻi works toward a more affordable and resilient
clean energy future.”
Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis from now through April 15,
2026, or until program capacity is reached. To qualify, applicants must have a working
refrigerator or freezer greater than 14 cubic feet. Delivery of the new appliance and removal of
the old unit from a central exchange site are provided at no cost.
Hawaiʻi Energy’s Appliance Trade-Up Program has proven to be an effective tool for reducing
energy use across the state. Since 2022, Hawaiʻi Energy has helped more than 1,200 households
upgrade inefficient appliances, resulting in over 1 million total kilowatt hours saved during the
first year and more than 8.45 million kilowatt hours in projected lifetime energy savings for
participants.
The West Honolulu Trade-Up Program is offered in partnership with Susannah Wesley
Community Center, which has long served families and individuals throughout the surrounding
neighborhoods.
Residents can download an application, view eligibility requirements, and learn more about the
program at https://hawaiienergy.com/for-homes/accessibility-affordability-initiatives/kalihi/.
Questions may be directed to HawaiiEnergy@Leidos.com, by calling (808) 537-5577, or toll-free
at (877) 231-8222. Applications and FAQs are also available in Ilokano, Tagalog, Chuukese, and
Marshallese.
ABOUT HAWAI‘I ENERGY
Hawai‘i Energy helps island families and businesses make smart energy choices. We encourage
and reward energy decisions that will allow our state to reach 100% clean energy faster and
cheaper. To date, we have saved the people of Hawai‘i more than a billion dollars off their
energy bills. Let Hawai‘i Energy be your trusted energy advisor to help save you money and
protect what makes Hawai‘i so special. For more information, please visit
hawaiienergy.com/about.