State Offices Tighten Energy Belts

HONOLULU -- Soaring electricity costs have triggered a call for state agencies to save taxpayer's money by cutting back on everything from lights to air conditioners.

The orders, which came down at the start of summer, required air conditioners in state buildings be started no earlier than 7:45 a.m. and be turned off by 4:30 p.m.

“Before, if there were a couple of people working, they would leave the air conditioning on the whole floor on,” said Gov. Linda Lingle. “But now they are requiring people to pay if they are in beyond normal hours.”

The cost-cutting measures are meant to slash the soaring bills. In 2006, the state was paying $500,000 a month for power in Oahu’s buildings. This year, those bills have jumped close to $700,000.

The department of accounting and general services said it plans to install motion detector lights in downtown bathrooms. They are already in use at the state Capitol. Workers are also being encouraged to turn off lights in rooms that are not in use.

“Anybody who walks by and sees it on, whether it’s me or security, they are turning it off,” said Lingle. “Everybody is more conscious of energy.”

Guests to the governor’s office may also notice a difference in the room reserved for news conferences and visitors. Before, the drapes were drawn and the lights were normally on all day. Now, they’re used only occasionally, Lingle said.

State workers said they’re getting used to the changes.

“We know it’s for the best and everybody appreciates and understands,” said employee Kaui Alapa.