In the wake of the new administration’s aggressive rollback of federal clean energy initiatives, Hawai‘i faces a pivotal moment in its pursuit of a sustainable energy future.

The recent withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and the declaration of a national energy emergency to boost fossil fuel production threaten to undermine years of progress toward renewable energy goals. These actions send a troubling signal that clean energy and efficiency may no longer be national priorities, placing an even greater burden on state and local leaders to drive progress forward.

Despite these federal setbacks, Hawai‘i has demonstrated commendable leadership in advancing clean energy. Gov. Josh Green’s recent executive order to expedite renewable energy development, including same-day permitting for energy-efficient installations and prioritizing energy-efficient designs in capital projects, is a bold step in the right direction.

These efforts will accelerate Hawai‘i’s transition to a clean energy future and help shield local businesses and residents from the volatility of fossil fuel markets.

Immediate Relief

Energy efficiency remains the most immediate and practical solution to our energy challenges. Unlike large-scale infrastructure projects that take years to implement, efficiency measures provide immediate relief, reducing energy consumption and lowering costs for households and businesses alike.

Programs like ENERGY STAR have already saved U.S. families and businesses over $500 billion since 1992. In Hawai‘i, where energy costs are among the highest in the nation, the impact of efficiency is even more significant.

Hawai‘i Energy, the state’s Public Benefits Fund administrator, has been instrumental in promoting energy efficiency across the islands. Through education, financial incentives, and technical support, the program has empowered residents and businesses to make smarter energy choices, generating $25 in energy savings for every dollar invested over the last 10 years.

These savings translate directly into lower utility bills, increased economic resilience, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions—critical benefits for an island state on the frontlines of climate change.

As federal policies shift, it is crucial for state and local leaders to remain steadfast in their commitment to renewable energy and efficiency. Gov. Green, the Hawai‘i State Legislature, and the Public Utilities Commission have laid a strong foundation, but continued vigilance and action are necessary to ensure Hawai‘i’s energy future remains secure and sustainable.

Stronger state policies that expand efficiency incentives, tighten efficiency standards for appliances and buildings, and enhance ratepayer efficiency programs will be essential in offsetting the loss of federal support.

The stakes are high. Rising energy costs and the escalating impacts of climate change demand immediate and unified action.

By embracing energy efficiency, we can reduce utility bills, lower greenhouse gas emissions, and create a more resilient energy system. For Hawai‘i, these benefits are not just desirable — they are essential to maintaining economic stability and protecting the environment.

Hawai‘i has the opportunity to lead by example, demonstrating how state-level innovation and commitment can drive meaningful change. By prioritizing energy efficiency, we can build a future that is not only sustainable and resilient but also economically beneficial for all. Businesses can reinvest savings into growth, households can better manage costs, and communities can thrive with cleaner, more affordable energy solutions.

Hawai‘i Energy remains committed to supporting the state’s energy transition, ensuring that residents and businesses have access to the tools and resources they need to make cost-effective energy choices.

We urge policymakers, business leaders, and residents to remain engaged, advocate for strong efficiency policies, and take full advantage of the programs available to them.

The time to act is now. Hawai‘i’s energy future depends on the choices we make today. Let’s seize this moment, reaffirm our commitment to efficiency, and secure a cleaner, more prosperous future for generations to come.