Rid-A-Fridge Program Offers Free Haul-Away and $65 Rebate

Hawaii Energy is offering $35 for recycling less efficient appliances. Photo courtesy of Hawaii Energy.

By Maui Now Staff

Hawaiʻi Energy, a ratepayer-funded energy conservation and efficiency program, has renamed its refrigerator recycling offer from “Bounty Program” to “Rid-A-Fridge” in an effort to get people to retire their old inefficient models and save energy.

The  program provides residents on Maui with free curb-side pickup, a $65 rebate, and the option of donating rebates to the Maui Food Bank.

Program organizers say refrigerators and freezers built before 1993 can be two to three times more expensive to operate than a new Energy Star model–a factor that program representatives say could result in as much as $314 in savings for a Maui resident if they get rid of their second refrigerator or freezer.

“There are multiple benefits to recycling an energy-wasting refrigerator or freezer,” said Hawaiʻi Energy Residential & Transformational Program Director Caroline Carl in a press release. “Participants don’t need to worry about hauling away their refrigerator; they’ll receive a financial incentive and begin saving money on their electric bill immediately.”

Program representatives say that since the refrigerator recycling program began in August 2011, approximately 1,956 refrigerators and freezers have been recycled and kept out of landfills. Representatives estimate that more than 1.67 million kilowatt hours and $568,820 in electricity costs have been saved annually (based on an average $0.34 per kWh).

The promotion also raised more than $3,000 for three food banks across the state. Due to its success, residents can continue to donate their rebates throughout Hawaiʻi Energy’s new program through June 30, 2015.

“We really appreciate the community’s kindness and generosity for supporting the Maui Food Bank and for making a commitment to save energy,” said Rich Yust, Maui Food Bank executive director. “Hawaiʻi Energy has been a terrific supporter and we look forward to another great year.”

In order to qualify, refrigerators or freezers offered for recycling must be full-size (at least 14 cubic feet) and in working condition.

To schedule a pick-up, call (808) 537-5577 on Oʻahu, and toll-free on Hawaiʻi Island and Maui at (877) 231-8222. Further information is also available at the Hawaiʻi Energy website.