The State of Hawaii is taking steps to enhance its use of renewable energy equipment, starting with its lawn maintenance operations. The Department of Accounting and General Services (DAGS) has concluded a trial period with an electric lawnmower and plans to expand its fleet by acquiring more battery-powered mowers as needed. This move aligns with the state's commitment to achieving 100% clean energy.
Governor Josh Green emphasized the importance of this initiative as part of Hawaii's broader goal under The Hawai‘i Clean Energy Initiative. He stated, “This is in line with Hawai‘i’s commitment to achieve the nation’s first-ever 100 percent renewable portfolio standards (RPS).” Governor Green also outlined several policy objectives, such as accelerating renewable development on neighbor islands to meet 100% RPS by 2035 and setting a statewide goal for 50,000 distributed renewable energy installations by 2030.
In March 2024, DAGS’ Central Services Division (CSD) began using a leased battery-powered mower. Keith Regan, DAGS Director and Comptroller, noted the benefits: “It’s faster, quieter and more economical. By leasing the vehicle, we are given a free loaner if it breaks. Therefore, we don’t lose productivity waiting for a mower to be fixed.”
The Grounds Maintenance Program managed by CSD covers 115 sites over 98 acres statewide, including public office buildings and health centers. Currently, CSD operates three diesel-powered mowers and two gas-powered ones. Switching from gas to electric mowers reduces monthly costs from $800 to $260 per mower, resulting in an estimated annual savings of $6,500 for the state. James Kurata, Administrator at CSD, remarked on the initiative's impact: “We’re pleased to be part of the solution to reduce our dependency on oil.”
DAGS' efforts reflect Hawaii's strategy towards sustainability by reducing reliance on fossil fuels and cutting maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts in electric equipment.