Sears brings hardware back to Ala Moana

There are lots of reasons to celebrate a homecoming of sorts for Sears Ala Moana. It was the original anchor store for the now gargantuan shopping center, so there’s nostalgia — even if it’s a different version.

Similar appliance and hardware showrooms have been springing up on the mainland ever since the parent company a few years back spun off Sears Hometown & Outlet Stores. Sears must believe there’s still a market for these items. Also: This may be a homecoming to Ala Moana for customers. Since the shopping center moved upmarket, they’ve been priced out of much of what’s there.

A $10,000 rebate to drive with electricity

Even as legislators mull a proposed Hawaii policy for 100 percent clean-fuel vehicles by 2045, market forces are nudging consumers toward that goal.

Nissan has just extended its popular $10,000 rebate on new electric Nissan Leaf cars bought in Hawaii. The original deadline to purchase was the end of March, but the rebate is now available through June 30 for Hawaiian Electric customers on Oahu, Hawaii island and in Maui.

With the $10,000 rebate plus federal tax incentives, some customers were able to save up to $17,500 on the new EVs — pretty good, for a vehicle with a $30,680 suggested retail price. So, HECO ratepayer, if you’re in the market for a car and looking to save some green by going green, check out hawaiianelectric.com/nissanleaf.