David Y. Igé | DBEDT press release: DIESEL REPLACEMENT DISCOUNTS AVAILABLE FOR ELECTRIFYING MEDIUM AND HEAVY VEHICLES.

HONOLULU – Approximately $ 2.1 million in diesel replacement rebates are available from the Hawai’i State Energy Office in partnership with the Hawai’i Department of Health. The new diesel replacement rebate program offers a 45% discount to public and private organizations in Hawaii that replace old, medium and heavy vehicles with an electric equivalent and associated charger.

This program will fund public transportation, shuttles and school buses, as well as medium and heavy trucks. Funds are available on a first come, first served basis. Applications will be available and accepted starting October 29 at 9 a.m. To https://energy.hawaii.gov/DRR.

There will be an information webinar on October 21^st at 9 a.m. for potential candidates. Those interested can subscribe to the VW mailing list at https://energy.hawaii.gov/vw-settlement-mailing-list to receive more information.

“Offering rebates to replace old diesel vehicles with clean electric vehicles will move the needle significantly toward meeting Hawaii’s bold net negative emissions target. The State of Hawaii is leading the way in aligning funding from multiple federal and non-government sources to leverage meaningful action, ”Governor Ige said.

Scott Glenn, Hawaii Director of Energy, noted, “Ground transportation accounts for about a quarter of Hawaii’s oil use and energy sector greenhouse gas emissions. That’s why it’s important to invest in electric trucks and buses and the charging infrastructure they need. In addition, this program will support job creation and reduce exposure to pollution for people who depend on public transport.

The partnership between the Hawai’i State Energy Office and the Hawai’i Department of Health leveraged Volkswagen settlement funds to receive a bonus of approximately $ 500,000 from the Diesel Emissions Reduction Act program of the United States Environmental Protection Agency. United, increasing funds otherwise available by more than 30%.

“Reducing harmful emissions from diesel engines is important to protect human health and our island environment. Said Kathleen Ho, HDOH’s deputy director for environmental health. “We are delighted to partner with the Hawaii State Energy Office to reduce air pollution and improve air quality for the people of Hawaii.”

This announcement coincides with National Drive Electric Week.

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About the Hawaii National Energy Board

The Hawai’i National Energy Board (HSEO) is an agency attached to the state Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism. HSEO’s mission is to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy and clean transportation to help achieve resilient, clean energy and a low-carbon economy. To this end, the HSEO develops policies and programs to meet our energy and climate change goals while identifying strategies that create jobs, reduce costs and improve the quality of life in Hawaii. For more information visit energy.hawaii.gov

CONTACT WITH THE MEDIA:

Kirsten Baumgart Turner

Deputy Head of Energy

Hawaii State Energy Board

(808) 587-3807

[email protected]