The U.S. Department of Energy announced Hawaii is one of 19 states and local governments who will together receive $240 million to implement energy-efficient building codes. 

Hawaii will receive $18 million to implement a new Building Performance Standard that will improve the energy performance of the state’s largest commercial buildings (50,000 square feet and above). Qualifying building types include hotels, food services, strip malls, offices, schools, outpatient hospitals and storage facilities. These buildings currently account for 80% of the state’s commercial energy use. 

The improvements will reduce energy use and emissions from commercial buildings. They will also help renters and commercial building operators save money on utility bills. Last, they will increase the demand for clean energy jobs, according to a news release. 

“As Hawaii continues to make strides in meeting its 100% renewable energy and decarbonization goals, it is critical that we continue to reduce our energy demand by being as energy efficient as possible. This policy will be key to our ability to meet our 2030 and 2045 goals,” said Hawaii Chief Energy Officer Mark. B. Glick in a statement. 

During a second phase of the project, large high-rise multifamily buildings, which are 100,000 square feet and above, will be eligible to apply for the program. 

The funds are part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s Investing in America agenda. As part of the Administration’s Justice40 initiative, 40% of the funds will go towards a technical assistance program in low- and moderate-income communities and to create new trades apprenticeship and education programs. 

For a full list of projects, click here.