For Immediate Release: June 30, 2006
DBEDT Release News 06-20

Honolulu--The State of Hawaii Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism (DBEDT) will hold the first of four public meetings to discuss the "Hawaii Energy Strategy 2007" (HES 2007) project on Thursday, July 6, 2006, from 1 pm to 4 pm in the State Capitol Auditorium.

The HES program was initiated in 1992 to increase the understanding of Hawaii's energy situation, formulate State Energy Objectives, and to make recommendations towards achieving those goals. HES 2007 will build upon previous work and the Governor's "Energy for Tomorrow" initiative to chart a clear path to:

• Reduce the state's dependence on oil;
• Protect the environment;
• Reduce negative economic impacts related to use of imported fuels;
• Enhance renewable energy use and energy efficiency; and
• Improve the security and reliability of Hawaii's energy system.

The July 6 meeting will be the first of four meetings designed to provide the community with opportunities to become more familiar with the HES development process and to participate by providing input, comments and suggestions.

Additional meetings are planned for September, October, and November will provide updates on HES 2007 progress and provide additional opportunity for dialogue.

For additional information, call 587-3966.

For more information, contact:
Dave Young
Communications
Phone: (808) 587-1212
Email: dyoung@dbedt.hawaii.gov