Energy Horizons Newsletter

Looking Ahead in Hawai‘i’s Energy Future

The Energy Horizons Newsletter shares practical advice and local stories about how people across Hawai‘i are using energy smarter. Each month, we cover new technologies, ways to lower energy costs, and simple steps that make homes and businesses more efficient.

Each edition highlights new technologies, local success stories, and real-world tips to help you get the most from your home or business energy use here in Hawai‘i.

Each issue features real-world tips, product highlights, and local stories that show how small changes can make a big difference — from upgrading your water heater to finding rebates that lower your utility bills here in Hawai‘i. Whether you’re looking to cut utility costs, qualify for rebates, or make your property more sustainable, we’ll help you stay ahead of the curve.

Every issue of Energy Horizons focuses on practical ways to make your home or business more efficient and comfortable. We share useful insights, highlight new technologies, and spotlight the programs that can help you save.

Here’s a look at what you can expect each month:

Home & Business Guides

Articles that explain how your equipment works and what to watch for when it comes to maintenance, efficiency, and comfort

Product Spotlights

A closer look at energy-saving technologies like heat pump water heaters and ENERGY STAR® appliances with clear takeaways on how they can lower your costs.

Energy-Saving Tips

Little changes at home can add up fast. We share simple ideas that actually fit real life — things like adjusting when you run appliances or using settings that keep comfort high and waste low.

Rebates & Incentives

We keep track of new rebate programs and local offers so you don’t have to dig for them. From federal tax credits to island-specific savings, you’ll always know what’s available before you upgrade

Community Highlights

Real stories from local homeowners and business owners who are finding creative ways to use less energy and save more each month.

Daniel Jenkins Daniel Jenkins

Horizon Currents Holiday Travel Guide

We all love to travel, especially around the holidays. Whether it’s a road trip to see family, a flight to a different coast, or a scenic train ride through the mountains, we often default to what we’ve always done. But this season, let’s take a moment to ask: are we choosing the best travel option for our situation?

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being a little more thoughtful. And that can start with understanding how our travel choices affect energy use and emissions…

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Daniel Jenkins Daniel Jenkins

Holiday Edition: Light Up Your Home, Not Your Electric Bill

Every year, holiday lights sneak up on us. You plug in a few strands here, wrap a railing there, add a wreath with lights “just because”… and suddenly your home looks fantastic — but your electric bill quietly climbs. The good news is that the biggest savings come from the simplest choices. Switching to LED holiday lights alone can cut your lighting energy use by 80–90%, and most homeowners don’t even realize how old their current strands are until they pull them out of storage. LEDs run cooler, last longer, and turn a big seasonal expense into a tiny one…

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Daniel Jenkins Daniel Jenkins

ENERGY STAR: What Does It Really Mean?

Most of us have seen the little blue ENERGY STAR label on appliances, electronics, and even light bulbs. But what does that label actually mean for your home? In simple terms, ENERGY STAR is a certification program backed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Department of Energy (DOE). When you see the logo, it means the product has been tested and proven to meet strict efficiency standards. These products use less electricity (or water) while performing just as well—or better—than their standard counterparts.

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Matthew Detmers Matthew Detmers

A Homeowner’s Guide to Water Heaters: How They Work and What to Know

For most of us, hot water is something we don’t think much about—until the shower runs cold or the water heater stops working. Behind the scenes, a water heater is one of the most important appliances in your home, quietly providing hot water for showers, laundry, dishwashing, and cleaning. Understanding how different types of water heaters work can help you make smarter choices when it’s time for a replacement.

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Matthew Detmers Matthew Detmers

Welcome to Energy Horizons: A Smarter Way to Power Your Home

This newsletter is designed to guide homeowners toward simple, impactful changes that reduce energy costs, enhance comfort, and contribute to a healthier community. Each issue will bring you practical tips, emerging innovations, and insights into how small choices can lead to big savings.

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