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LĪHU‘E – The County of Kauaʻi Office of Economic Development reminds local businesses and organizations that funding remains available through the Kauaʻi Small Business Energy Efficiency Grant (SBEEG) program. The grant is offered through a partnership between the Office of Economic Development, the Kauaʻi Economic Development Board (KEDB), and the Kauaʻi Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC).
The SBEEG program works alongside KIUC’s Commercial Retrofit Program to help small commercial members reduce energy costs through efficiency upgrades. KIUC provides funding toward eligible materials for projects such as air conditioning improvements, motors, lighting controls, and refrigeration equipment. The SBEEG program, administered by KEDB, helps offset a portion of the labor costs associated with these improvements.
The grant is specifically designed to assist small commercial members that may face financial barriers to completing energy efficiency projects. Eligibility is limited to businesses and organizations that fall under KIUC Rate Schedules J or G.
"Upgrading equipment and installing lighting controls are some of the most effective ways businesses can lower their electricity bills and reduce operating costs over time," said Nalani Brun, Director of the Office of Economic Development. "We are grateful to be working with our partners at KEDB and KIUC and believe in building upon successful existing programs rather than duplicating efforts. Through this pilot initiative, we hope to encourage greater participation in KIUC’s commercial energy efficiency programs while helping local businesses thrive. Reducing energy use benefits individual businesses and strengthens our community as a whole, as we reduce our reliance on the electrical grid."
Businesses and organizations interested in participating must first submit an interest form. KIUC will then conduct an on-site energy assessment with a supplier to identify potential efficiency upgrades. After reviewing the recommendations and materials costs, the business will obtain a contractor quote for installation. KEDB will review the proposal and determine the amount of labor cost assistance available through the SBEEG program. Once approved, the business may proceed with the project. Following installation and a final site visit by KIUC, the business will receive the agreed-upon reimbursement from KEDB.
Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis. The grant period runs through December 31, 2026, and all installation work must be completed no later than 60 days prior to that date.
Businesses can begin the application process by completing the interest form at kiuc.coop/form/sbeeg-form. Additional information about the program is available at www.kauaiforward.com/SBEEG.
In addition to the SBEEG program, KIUC offers a variety of energy efficiency incentives for commercial members. KEDB continues its mission of improving quality of life on Kauaʻi through economic diversification, strategic partnerships, workforce development, and educational opportunities that support long-term economic success.
For more information or questions, please contact Christina Kaser at 808-241-1950 or ckaser@kauai.gov.
If you need an auxiliary aid/service, other accommodation due to a disability, or an interpreter for non-English-speaking persons, please contact Christina Kaser at 808-241-1950 or ckaser@kauai.gov as soon as possible. Requests made early will allow adequate time to fulfill your request. Upon request, this notice is available in alternate formats such as large print, Braille, or electronic copy.
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