About Brian

With over 25 years of clean energy experience, Brian is currently the executive director of Hawai‘i Energy. Prior to Hawai‘i Energy, Brian launched the Hawai‘i division of Chevron Energy Solutions, now Engie. Brian also spent many years developing and implementing energy programs at Pacific Gas & Electric, Avista Utilities, and Maui Electric. Brian holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in both Economics and Marketing, and a Masters of Business Administration from Gonzaga University and holds a certificate in negotiation from the University of Oxford.

How I Save

I have been net zero for several years by using energy-efficient technologies such as LED lighting, solar water heating, and ENERGY STAR appliances. After bringing my usage down through efficiency, I installed a 3.5 kW solar PV system along with PV attic fans.

About Caroline

Caroline manages Hawai‘i Energy’s Residential and Transformational Programs. She’s responsible for executing the Residential Program plan and to meet or exceed the annual energy savings targets associate with the program. To do this she oversees the design and implementation of new innovative programs to help achieve these energy savings. Caroline also executes our transformational program which is designed to educate and enable behavioral transformation that will lead to energy savings in future years. Prior to joining Hawai‘i Energy, Caroline worked at The Kohala Center to implement energy-saving programs on Hawai‘i Island. She organized CFL bulb distribution and exchange fundraisers for student and community organizations. In addition, she oversaw the ReefTeach and Citizen Science Water Quality Monitoring program at Kahaluu Bay in Kailua-Kona. Caroline holds a B.A in Environment and Development from McGill University and a M.S. in Geographic Information Science and Technology from the University of Southern California.

How I Save

I take mny steps to reduce my energy consumption. I often roller skate or ride my bike. Additionally, I use only CFL bulbs at home and I purchased ENERGY STAR® appliances. My condominium also has solar-powered ventilation fans.

About Mireya

Mireya Gonzalez Norman has eleven years of experience in program finance. Previously, Mireya worked for the Leidos Security Products Group as a Senior Project Controller, managing the financials on numerous domestic and international security technology projects. She started her career as a Financial Analyst in Raytheon Company's Financial Leadership Development Program. Mireya has a Bachelor's in Economics from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) and a Master's in International Affairs from the University of California, San Diego (UCSD).

How I Save

I walk to work and use public transportation as much as possible. My home has energy-efficient appliances and I use ceiling fans as an alternative to air conditioning.

About Ramsey

Ramsey Brown is the Resource Acquisition Manager for Hawai‘i Energy. He oversees the team of 10 Energy Advisors on Oʻahu, Maui and the Big Island, who are responsible for helping businesses reduce their energy consumption and save money on their electric bills, by upgrading to energy efficient equipment and operations. In addition, Ramsey works behind the scenes designing new incentive offers, supporting data tracking and reporting, and guiding the advancement of Hawai‘i’s energy codes and standards. In a typical day, Ramsey and his team help Hawai‘i’s businesses understand the steps they need to take to be more energy efficient and how to get a rebate for these measures. In his role, Ramsey also engages with energy industry professionals and shares news about Hawai‘i Energy’s various rebate offers through the media, including being a co-host of Hawai‘i: Energized!, which airs on KHON’s Living808 television show. Ramsey holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering from the California Maritime Academy, and was named as one of Pacific Business News’ 40 Under 40 in 2019.

How I Save

I drive a hybrid vehicle, use solar water heating and energy-efficient lighting at home, and advocate energy efficiency to all family and friends!

About Christina

Prior to Hawaii Energy, Christina worked for 7 years as an Energy Manager/Environmental project specialist for the US Army Reserves here in Hawaii. She worked on renewable energy and energy efficiency projects for American Samoa, Maui, Guam and Saipan. Prior to working for the Army Reserve, she worked for the Hawaii National Guard for 3 years as Environmental Project Specialist implementing an Environmental Management System. She holds a BS degree in Environmental Management from the University of Maryland. Her first 3 years of undergraduate studies were completed at the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

How I Save

We replaced our existing bulbs with more efficient versions. We shut off power strips when not in use. We use cold water for washing and laundry where possible. We avoid using our window A/C units and have installed ceiling fans for more efficient cooling.

About Walter

Walter Enomoto is currently the Program Specialist for Hawaii Energy in Maui County. He helps to implement all Hawaii Energy residential and commercial programs and processes applications for energy efficiency measures. He also meets with various trade allies, vendors, and business owners, as well provides presentations to different groups and organizations to promote energy efficiency. Prior to this position, Walter developed renewable energy projects in Maui County including the first Feed In Tariff (FIT) systems in the State of Hawaii and first solar PPA in Maui County. He also served previously as the Commercial and Industrial Program Manager for Maui Electric Company’s Demand Side Management Program. His educational background includes the first Associate’s Degree in Sustainable Technologies from Maui Community College/UH Maui and a Bachelor of Business Administration from UH-Hilo. When not working, Walter enjoys bicycling, photography, movies and astronomy pursuits. He was also recognized by Maui No Ka Oi Magazine as one of its “Environmental Heroes” for 2011 for his two decades of work advocating bicycle use.

How I Save

At home, I have a solar hot water system, CFL and LED lights, an eco-friendly washing machine and clothesline, as well as an energy-monitoring power strip.

About Krystle

My role at Hawaii Energy is to work with The Maui County Manager to implement energy incentive programs and advisory services for businesses and residents on the island of Maui. I graduated from the University of Hawaii Maui College where I received a B.A.S. in Sustainable Science Management (SSM).

How I Save

I am fortunate that my house has both a solar water heating system and a solar photovoltaic system. I have ENERGY STAR ® appliances. I do my best to run my dishwasher and washing machine during the day to make use of my PV system, and hang dry my clothes. Most of my electronics are on smart power strips that I turn off when not in use.

About Graceson

Graceson works closely with Hawaii Island businesses both large and small to provide energy efficiency consultation and assist with processing financial incentives. He also supports residential projects and assists with conducting community outreach and educational events.

He has more than 20 years of hands-on trades experience including energy-efficient retrofits such as lighting, motors, control systems, as well as renewable energy and electrical systems for on-grid and off-grid applications that include photovoltaic (PV) and solar thermal.

Prior to Hawaii Energy, Graceson was the Sustainability Coordinator at Hawaii Community College in Hilo. There he led a project to integrate sustainability principles and technologies into the college’s Electrical, Carpentry, Architecture and Landscaping programs. Additionally, he co-developed the University of Hawaii (UH) Sustainability Strategy aimed at engaging stakeholders across UH’s 10 campus system, which led to the UH Board of Regents revising its mission statement to include a commitment to carbon neutrality.

Graceson obtained a Bachelor of Science degree through the Global Environmental Science program at UH Manoa with a focus on the lifecycle of biofuel production. He also earned a Master of Arts in Geography with a focus on Cumulative Effects Assessment within Hawaii’s Environmental Law and Planning processes.

How I Save

My home is completely off grid, I use LED lighting, energy efficient appliances, and drive a fuel efficient car.

About Malia

Malia’s role at Hawai’i Energy is to work closely with the Hawai’i County Manager to execute energy incentive programs and advisory services for businesses and residents. Malia graduated from University of Hawaii at Hilo where she received a B.S. in Environmental Science and minored in Geology

How I Save

I save energy by plugging my appliances and devices in to smart power strips and turning the power strips off when the devices are not in use. Additionally, all my light fixtures at home are equipped with LED bulbs.

About Lily

Lily Koo is the Business Program Specialist for Hawaii Energy. Prior to this position, Lily worked for Hawaiian Electric Company’s commercial and industrial energy solutions and load control programs. She has been promoting and implementing energy conservation measures for local businesses for the past eight years. Her responsible sectors include: hotels, federal, state and city & county. Lily holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and an Associate's degree in Paralegal.

How I Save

My house is equipped with window tinting, insulated walls, energy efficient appliances, a solar water heating system, solar PV and LED lamps.

About Eileen

Eileen is the Energy Advisor for the industrial sector. Eileen worked in operations and development for the Hawaii Appleseed Center for Law and Economic Justice prior to coming to Hawaii Energy. She holds a BS in industrial and systems engineering from Virginia Tech.

How I Save

I walk or e-bike as much as possible to get around town. At home, I use LED lighting and unplug or turn off appliances and electronics when not in use.

About Ed

Ed used to work as Engineering Consultant/Program Specialist for the Energy Services Department at Hawaiian Electric Company and was part of the Demand-Side Management (DSM) Program before he went to American Electric as an Estimator/Project Engineer. Ed also worked as an Estimator/QC Manager for Electricians Hawaii and has over 19 years in engineering field experience. He holds a BS in Electrical Engineering from Mapua Institute of Technology in the Philippines.

How I Save

In our home we use fans instead of an AC, changed all our bulbs to CFLs and are strict to turn off/unplug light switches and appliances that aren't being used.

About Hoang

Hoang Tran is the Energy Efficiency Advisor for Hawai‘i Energy. His primary responsibility is to assist customers in identifying energy saving opportunities and provide businesses with consultation and implementation of energy efficiency and conservation initiatives to reduce utility and operational costs. Prior to this, he was the Sales and Digital Manager for a local radio station where he managed a diverse sales team, and was responsible for creating marketing and branding campaigns for local businesses on Oahu. Hoang brings over 12 years of marketing experience.

Hoang received his Bachelor of Science in Marketing from San Jose State University and MBA from Chaminade University of Honolulu.

How I Save

I save energy by switching out all my lights to LED’s. I have a solar water heater. We do try and do laundry during off-peak hours. We utilize the ceiling fans before turning on the AC.

About Marissa

Marissa Kunsch is an Energy Advisor at Hawai‘i Energy. Prior to this position, Marissa worked as a utility rates analyst at Energy Toolbase, LLC. Her work experience includes internships with both the Hawai‘i Green Business Program and the Sierra Club of Hawai‘i. Marissa also works part time as an assistant coach to the Hawai‘i Pacific University cross country team. She received a B.S. in Environmental Science and an M.A. in Global Leadership & Sustainable Development from HPU.

How I Save

I typically wash my clothes on the cold water cycle on an ENERGY STAR washer and hang them to dry outside. My house has energy efficient appliances, and I always make sure to turn off or unplug appliances when not in use. I try to take Biki over driving when possible.

About Claire

Claire Krebs is Hawaii Energy's Residential Program Manager. She has been working within the energy efficiency industry for the last five years and has a passion for helping customers reduce their energy consumption and save money on electric bills. Prior to Hawaii Energy, Claire lived and worked in Atlanta, Georgia implementing residential utility energy efficiency rebate programs throughout the state. Claire is a certified Building Analyst through the Building Performance Institute (BPI) and has a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Environmental Studies from the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota.

How I Save

We use smart power strips, air-dry our clothes, and installed ceiling fans throughout the home to minimize AC usage!

About Stephany

Stephany is the manager of Hawai‘i Energy’s Affordability & Accessibility programs. She will oversee strategic and task-oriented planning and campaigns in two primary focus areas: Asset-Limited, Income-Constrained, Employed (ALICE) populations and nonprofits striving to reduce their energy costs. Prior to joining Hawai‘i Energy, Stephany worked as Senior Vice President of Member Operations at HMSA and CEO of Kahuku Medical Center. She also services as a board member for Hospice Hawai‘i and the Ko‘olauloa Health and Wellness Foundation. Stephany has a masters degree in social work and a law degree from the William S. Richardson School of Law.

How I Save

I ride a Biki to and from work! It’s a great way to exercise, save on gas/parking and be outdoors.

About Rachel

Rachel Fukumoto is the Program Specialist for Hawaii Energy. She received a B.S. in Environmental Science from Creighton University and a M.S. in Natural Resource and Environmental Management from the University of Hawaii at Manoa. Rachel has a background in terrestrial ecology, and has worked on a variety of restoration projects in Iowa and Hawaii.

How I Save

I use the cold water cycle on a high efficiency washing machine, and hang my clothes to dry.

About Bret

Bret Wilkins is excited to bring his passion for operations and help drive the charge towards a sustainable future as the Energy Advantage program intern. Bret is currently a third-year student at the University of Hawai‘i at Mānoa, pursuing a Bachelor’s in Business Management.

How I Save

Not having A/C in Hawai‘i can be an issue, but rather than having fans circulate hot air around, I open the windows and have installed screen doors to keep my home much cooler!

About Chester

Chester coordinates the execution of many of Hawaii Energy’s most critical programs, centered around community engagement pilots in rural communities. Prior to joining Hawaii Energy, he worked for Maui County’s Office of Council Services and in Washington, D.C, for the U.S. Senate Committee on Energy and Natural Resources for Alaska Senator Lisa Murkowski, where his portfolio included rural energy, climate change, appliance standards and energy efficiency. He has also worked at the Alaska State Senate and, for several years, in broadcast radio in both Alaska and California. Chester has a bachelor’s degree in film and video production from Pacific University in Forest Grove, Oregon.

How I Save

My parents instilled in me early growing up in Alaska to not carelessly leave the lights on. Since then, I’ve always tried to adhere to the less-is-more approach to energy usage. Use less of it when you can and use it as efficiently as possible otherwise. Plus, I need to make up for the guilt that comes with the terrible miles per gallon my old 4Runner gets.

About Susan

Susan Tai is the Manager – New Initiatives for Hawaii Energy. Her responsibilities include the design, planning, and implementation of new programs, customer-focused initiatives and strategic planning for the organization. Most recently, Susan provided consulting services in economic development, strategic planning, and grant-writing for public and private organizations for Hawaii while she was consulting as an executive director for an Oahu-based nonprofit focused on building Hawaii’s disaster management preparedness and resiliency.

Prior to this, Susan served as the president and chief executive officer of Kauai Economic Development Board (KEDB), overseeing its strategic planning, fund development, program planning, and community partnerships. Her other leadership roles on Kaua`i have included serving as the community relations manager at Syngenta Hawaii, director of Kauai Economic Development Plan at KEDB, and director of Kauai’s Small Business Development Center. Prior to this, she helped create the Polsky Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation at the Booth School of Business of the University of Chicago, where she pursued her bachelor’s degree in biology. Susan has also served on numerous organizations such as the Kauai Chamber of Commerce Board, Kauai General Plan Update Advisory Committee, Kauai Mayor’s Agricultural Advisory Committee, Wilcox Medical Center - Kauai Medical Clinic Board, Hawaii State Small Business Development Center Board, and the Asia Pacific Resilience Innovation Advisory & Steering Committees.

How I Save

I live in an LEED certified building, use energy efficient fans instead of air-conditioning, replaced using desktops with laptops, and use smart power strips.

About Karen

Karen Shishido is the Energy Project Manager for Hawaii Energy’s Transformational Program, which works to transform the way our state approaches its energy challenges over a three- to five- year time period. The transformational program encourages making smart energy choices, providing outreach and education and professional/technical development of the workforce. It also advocates for the adoption of updated building codes and standards and the review of emerging clean energy technologies. Karen previously worked as an analyst at the Hawaii State Energy Office’s Energy Efficiency Branch and at Trinity Management Group consulting on high performance building design and construction projects. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Comparative Literature and Asian Studies from Occidental College and a MA from the University of Delaware in Urban Affairs and Public Policy, with a concentration in energy and environmental policy. She has been a LEED Accredited Professional since 2008.

How I Save

Karen used the TED home energy monitor to get a better understanding of the energy use in her home a few years ago. She now uses smart power strips, LED lighting, and air-dries most of the laundry in the apartment, which is naturally ventilated.

About Desiree

Desiree Sumaoang is an Business Alliances Advisor for Hawaii Energy. Her role includes providing support for the Clean Energy Ally program. Desiree graduated from the University of Hawaii at Manoa where she received BBA in Marketing and Management

How I Save

I save energy by walking as much as I can instead of driving and turn off the lights whenever I leave a room. Additionally, I utilize smart power strips and unplug my devices when not in use.

About Noreen

As the Manager of External Affairs for Hawaii Energy, Noreen is responsible for developing and sustaining relationships with community members and key stakeholders. She brings more than 20 years of communications experience in Hawaii. Noreen most recently served as communications director at Blue Planet Foundation. Prior to that, she was the communications manager at Ulupono Initiative and the chief communications officer for the Hawaii State Energy Office. Before getting into public relations, Noreen started her career in television news with 10 years of experience as a news and creative services producer. A graduate of McKinley High School, Noreen earned her journalism degree from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

How I Save

I have been driving an electric car since 2015, and most recently, my family has gone down to one vehicle so we carpool daily. I also utilize smart plugs at home to manage our lighting and devices.

About Shayna

Shayna oversees Hawai‘i Energy's brand strategy, promotion and public relations efforts to increase awareness of and access to our program offerings. Born and raised on Maui, Shayna's local background and passion for public service have helped spotlight energy efficiency and conservation as a crucial part of achieving the state's 100% clean energy goal. She has 10 years of experience working on integrated advertising and branding campaigns, event coordination, media relations, and strategic planning for several local community service organizations in Hawaii, and also serves as the producer and co-host of Hawaii: Energized!, a monthly educational segment on local television lifestyle show Living808.

Shayna is a proud graduate of Maui High School and Pacific Lutheran University in Tacoma, Washington.

How I Save

I've turned my family into energy nerds! We pay attention to our energy usage each month and look for ways to reduce where we can. Our home has LED lighting, we keep our AC usage to a minimum, and we plug our electronics into smart power strips.

About Jeff

Jeff Dizon is the Web Designer/Developer for Hawai‘i Energy. Prior to this position, Jeff developed web applications for NCTAMS PAC (Naval Computer and Telecommunication Area Master Station Pacific).

How I Save

I utilize natural sunlight to power the solar heating and photovoltaic systems in my house. In addition we keep cool using ceiling fan, and the island trade winds.

About Christina

Christina is the Marketing Coordinator for Hawai‘i Energy. She assists in the execution of marketing initiatives. She holds a BA in Cinema-Television from the University of Southern California and an MBA in Marketing from the University of San Diego. Prior to joining Hawai‘i Energy, Christina worked in marketing for the non-profit, Population Connection.

How I Save

I use LED lights and smart power strips, which I turn off when not in use, and wash my clothes in cold water.

About Jaclyn

Jaclyn is the Public Relations & Events Specialist for Hawaiʻi Energy. She is responsible for coordinating media relations efforts and overseeing large scale program events. Jaclyn received a Bachelor of Arts in English with an emphasis in Journalism from Loyola Marymount University. Prior to this position, her past experience includes social media marketing for 6 Pillars Marketing and HONOLULU Magazine.

How I Save

I conserve energy by turning off lights when they’re not needed and unplugging appliances when they’re not in use. My family utilizes LED lightbulbs, in fact, thanks to Hawaii Energy’s instant rebate program, we increased the amount of LED lights in our home! We also have a PV system and a solar water heater.

About Tammy

As a Marketing Specialist, Tammy is instrumental in creating and executing marketing strategies to encourage participation in Hawaii Energy’s residential programs and motivating residents to become more energy-conscious. She brings over 20 years of experience in client consulting in a number of different industries, including retail, solar, healthcare, hotel, construction, education, broadcast TV/radio and restaurants. Tammy has also worked with nonprofit organizations on efforts to preserve the Hawaiian language, culture and all of Hawaii’s natural resources. She holds a BA in Communication and a BFA in Art from the University of Hawaii at Manoa.

How I Save

In my families’ homes, we use LED lighting, solar water heating, have ENERGY STAR® air conditioners and appliances and either drive a hybrid or completely electric vehicle. We also take advantage of our great climate, try to open windows instead of use AC, and hang our clothes instead of using the electric dryer.

About Jenna

Jenna is the Hawai‘i Energy office administrative assistant. Her responsibilities include supporting the Hawai‘i Energy team’s accounting, finance and administrative divisions. Jenna is a graduate of Old Dominion University where she majored in psychology. She spends her free time volunteering for the Surfrider Foundation and the Sierra Club of Hawai‘i.

How I Save

I walk and Biki around the city whenever possible. I carpool with a coworker to work every day. My roommates and I use fans instead of air conditioning, have switched our light fixtures to LED bulbs, and use cold water to wash our clothes.

About Carol

As part of the Finance Team, Carol Boisvert is the Budget Analyst for Hawai‘i Energy. She has a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Loyola Marymount University.

Her prior experience includes corporate compensation, government and benefits accounting with SAIC and then with Leidos. Currently a resident of East Honolulu, Carol is thrilled to rejoin Leidos as part of Hawai’i Energy ‘ohana.

How I Save

My family saves energy in several different ways. We have switched all of our light bulbs to the energy-efficient LED type. We use a solar water heater which provides most of the hot water that we use through the solar panels with minimal use of the electric water heater. We installed energy efficient windows and cool our house mostly by opening windows to let the breeze through and by use of fans rather than air conditioning.

About Aarif

Aarif brings an extensive background in information technology and many years of computer software implementation to Hawaii Energy, and is responsible for leading the team’s integration and maintenance of its Salesforce system, focusing on data quality, systems integration, and process automation. Previously Aarif served as Salesforce Administrator for Well Dot Inc. and Implementation Analyst at Blue Mountain.

How I Save

One of the way I save by making sure I have a smart thermostat installed and I buy energy efficient appliances and windows. I also walk as much as I can as an effort to reduce carbon dioxide.

About Jacqueline

Jacqueline is the Program Support Specialist for Hawai‘i Energy. She is responsible for supporting various programs across the organization including the transformational program and program delivery. Jacqueline received her Bachelor of Arts in Public Health from the University of Hawai‘i at Manoa.

How I Save

I make sure lights are turned off when I leave a room and unplug any devices that are not in use. Our home uses a solar water heater unit and Energy Star appliances. We use fans in order to eliminate the need for air conditioning. I also hang my laundry to dry.

About Winona

Winona has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from Hawai‘i Pacific University. Her work experience includes working for a small woman-owned business where she initiated the company’s goal toward better business management by updating its accounting process, using online resources as tools for the business, and organizing files for secure data storage. Her awareness of energy conservation developed as the company focused on energy conservation to help minimize costs.

How I Save

My home shines with CFLs, the air conditioning stays off longer, and I unplug not-in-use appliances, air fresheners, and chargers. These are little steps I take that pay off big time.