Hawaii Island residents raised $2,015 for the Food Basket while saving energy in the process through Hawaii Energy’s “Rid-A-Fridge to Fight Hunger” program.
Hawaii Island residents raised $2,015 for the Food Basket while saving energy in the process through Hawaii Energy’s “Rid-A-Fridge to Fight Hunger” program.
Hawaii Energy, the ratepayer-funded energy conservation and efficiency program for Hawaii, Honolulu and Maui counties, developed the Rid-A-Fridge program in August 2011 to encourage residents to properly recycle their old, second refrigerators or freezers.
In addition to saving energy, Hawaii Energy provides a $65 cash rebate for Hawaii Island and Maui residents and $50 for those on Oahu.
With Rid-A-Fridge, residents had the option to donate their rebate to support their island’s respective food banks.
By recycling a refrigerator or freezer, residents can save up to $300 annually on their energy costs. Refrigerators and freezers built prior to 1993 can be two to three times more expensive to operate than a new Energy Star model.
All residential electric utility customers on Hawaii Island, Maui and Oahu are eligible to participate. Refrigerators or freezers must be full size (at least 14 cubic feet) and in working condition. Hawaii Energy provides free curb-side pickup and proper recycling.
Since Hawaii Energy began the recycling program, approximately 2,876 refrigerators and freezers have been recycled and kept out of landfills as of June 2015.
Recycling ensures the inefficient units will not be resold or handed down thus continuing to waste energy.
To schedule a pickup on Hawaii Island, call 877-231-8222. For more information about the program, visit www.HawaiiEnergy.com/rid-a-fridge.
For more information about the Food Basket, visit www.foodbaskethi.org.