Hawaii Energy, the state’s energy conservation program, in partnership with the Hawaii County Department of Environmental Management, has announced a new date for the “Rid-A-Fridge” recycling drive, now rescheduled for Saturday, Sept. 28.
The event will be held from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Keaau Middle School.
Eligibility has also been expanded to include Hilo residents in addition to Puna. Participants can recycle any old, working refrigerator or freezer and receive $100 per unit, which must be 14 cubic feet or larger.
“Although we had to postpone the original date due to weather, we’re happy to reschedule the event while expanding the eligibility to include Hilo residents,” said Caroline Carl, executive director, Hawaii Energy. “By participating, more families can save on their electric bills and help keep these appliances out of our landfills.”
Residents must apply in advance, and applications are available on a first come, first served basis.
The recycling drive is open to Hilo and Puna residents of the following zip codes: 96749, 96778, 96771 and 96720.
Residents must download the application form from www.hawaiizerowaste.org/recycle/appliances/ and submit the completed form to denise.e.nakamura@leidos.com by Sept. 26.
Participants must be able to transport the appliance to the event site and unload.
“Hawaii Energy’s Rid-A-Fridge program not only helps tackle public dumping, but empowers our families to reinvest in energy efficiency on their own terms,” said Alex White, recycling specialist with the Department of Environmental Management.
Since 2010, Hawaii Energy has recycled more than 6,000 units through its Rid-A-Fridge program across Hawaii Island, Maui County and Oahu.