Hawaii Energy Provides Free, Customized Energy Reports to Select Oahu Households

Posted January 16, 2014

Select Oahu residents will be receiving free reports in the mail that compare their electricity usage to nearby homes in an effort to encourage energy efficiency. Hawaii Energy’s Home Energy Reports are designed to: 1) provide electricity usage information, 2) offer customized energy-saving tips and 3) track month-to-month progress.

Each household’s energy usage is compared with 100 anonymous homes similar in square footage, number of bedrooms and the year it was constructed. These homes are in the general proximity and are not necessarily directly next to each other. The reports are based on publicly-available data. No personal information is disclosed.

“This is a very unique opportunity for people to see how their electricity habits stack up with their neighbors which can be a great motivator for positive change,” said Ray Starling, Program Director, Hawaii Energy. “From years past, the reports proved to be very helpful to raise awareness about the importance of energy efficiency and how it can really save money.”

Approximately 57,500 Oahu residents will begin receiving the reports in early January. Those will be followed by three additional monthly reports to illustrate each household’s progress towards saving electricity. There are also helpful tips ranging from behavioral changes (e.g., reduce water heating temperature) to investment ideas (e.g., purchase ENERGY STAR® appliances).

An additional benefit for residents is the ability to access Hawaii Energy’s online tool that allows people to develop a comprehensive energy savings plan, refine their home profiles and learn other energy-saving ideas.

The Home Energy Report pilot program was originally launched in the Ewa Plain area on Oahu in May 2011. In January 2012, households on Hawaii Island, Maui, Lanai and Molokai were also added. To date, 75,000 households have saved an estimated 7.54 million kilowatt hours (kWh) and $2.49 million toward their electricity bills (based on residential electricity rate of 33 cents per kWh on Oahu).

Although the reports are aimed at lowering electricity usage and costs, each household has the option to opt-out by calling 537-5577. Currently, households are unable to opt into receiving the reports. For more energy-saving tips, visit hawaiienergy.com. Or call us on Oahu at 537-5577 and toll-free at (877) 231-8222 on the neighbor islands.