Hawaii tops energy survey

Hawaii again ranked No. 1 in a national nonprofit’s survey of state investments in energy efficiency projects.

The Energy Services Coalition recognized Hawaii as the nation’s per capita leader in energy performance contracting in its annual “Race to the Top” award for the sixth consecutive year, according to the Hawaii State Energy Office.

Through energy performance contracting, government agencies can pay for capital improvements such as more efficient lighting and air conditioning that result in better energy efficiency through savings on their utility bills. Since 1996, state and local government agencies have signed performance contracts for 295 buildings and facilities in Hawaii, according to the office.

“The growth of energy performance contracting is making a significant impact on Hawaii’s use of imported fossil fuels while helping diversify our economy by sustaining and creating jobs in the clean tech sector,” said Luis Salaveria, director of the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism, in a news release. “I commend the state and county agencies that are executing energy performance contracts, and for playing a leadership role in Hawaii’s clean energy transformation.”

In its annual “Race to the Top” survey, all 50 states are ranked based on the per capita amount invested in performance contracts for government buildings. Hawaii invested $372.81 per capita compared with the national average of $62.72 per capita, creating more than 5,400 jobs in 2017. Hawaii was also named an “Energy Stewardship Champion.”

To see the report, go to energyservicescoalition.org.