Can Big Changes for the Role of Efficiency Support Energy Independence in the State of Hawaii?

摘要

The State of Hawaii is rich in natural resources, yet relies on imported oil for almost 90%rnof its energy. It is, however, at a unique and opportune moment to steer its energy future and hasrnrecently committed to dramatic changes in its energy structure, both on the supply and demandrnside. The Hawaii Clean Energy Initiative put into place in late 2008 promotes aggressive goalsrnfor renewables, and efficiency as well as changes to transportation infrastructure. These changesrnare the result of strong interest and promotion on behalf of Federal, State and Local agencies andrnclean energy academic and special interest groups. The goal of the Hawai‘i Clean EnergyrnInitiative is to meet 70% of State energy needs by 2030 through energy efficiency andrnrenewablesrnThis paper will examine the opportunities and challenges faced by the State associatedrnwith its energy efficiency programs that were recently transitioned from utility to third partyrnadministration on July 1, 2009. The new portfolio of ratepayer funded programs were put intornplace during a very dynamic time in which State officials are making numerous changes to utilityrninfrastructure, building codes and tax incentives. At the same time, energy prices had reachedrnpeak levels due to oil price fluctuations and federal stimulus funding became available for a widernrange of energy efficiency related programs. This paper examines the transition issues andrndevelopment goals and budgets of the ratepayer-funded portfolio of efficiency programs and thernrole played by the wide range of contributors.