Hawai’i Energy Names New Executive Director

Brian Kealoha. Hawai’i Energy photo.

Hawai’i Energy is naming a new executive director this month in Brian Kealoha.

The energy conservation and efficiency program for Hawai’i, Honolulu, and Maui counties is bringing in Kealoha, who has over two decades of energy sector experience.

Kealoha has spent time developing and implementing energy programs at Pacific Gas & Electric, Avista Utilities, and Maui Electric Company. In his most recent role, he served as Regional Director of OpTerra Energy Services/Chevron Energy Solutions.

“I am excited to join the Hawai’i Energy team to help the State achieve its clean energy goals,” said Kealoha. “Lowering energy demand from energy efficiency and conservation is the first and most cost-effective step. I look forward to collaborating with our community and energy stakeholders to help facilitate innovative solutions for Hawai’i.”

The executive director position is open following Ray Starling’s retirement after over 30 years in energy and the past seven operating Hawai’i Energy.

“I am honored to have been apart of the Hawai’i Energy program,” said Starling. “Our team members are passionate about their work. And the efficiency measure we’ve helped put in place since 2009 will save Hawai’i ratepayers close to $2.5B in energy reductions while making the grid much more tolerant of increasing renewable energy. This is a satisfying legacy to leave as I pass the stick to Brian who will bring new ideas and fresh motivation to the program. I will miss the inspired team that brought us to where we are today, but I have a strong feelings they will continue to make me proud.”

Over 450,000 electric utility customers are served by the Hawai’i Energy program on the Big Island, Lani, Maui, Molokai, and Oahu.