The Hawaiian Council has unveiled Kalāhiki, a groundbreaking initiative designed to guide Hawaiʻi toward energy sovereignty by providing practical support to families during a period of diminishing federal energy programs.

Appointed as the chief administrator of Kalāhiki, Josh Stanbro brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the cause. He emphasized the program's focus on assisting local families in securing their homes and making energy more affordable.

"We are laser-focused on developing economic opportunities for the Hawaiian community here in the islands, and energy is a huge space for that," Stanbro stated.

Kalāhiki aims to reduce reliance on imported fuels by promoting locally generated power. Stanbro highlighted the necessity of producing and consuming energy within the islands to achieve true energy sovereignty.

"To be energy sovereign and secure, we need to produce our energy here and consume it here," he explained. "That means having solar panels on every single rooftop."

Recognizing that many families cannot afford the upfront costs of solar technology, Kalāhiki is committed to reaching households that have been excluded from previous clean energy programs and are most in need of relief.

"It's an effort by the Hawaiian Council to ensure we gain energy sovereignty in our homes, build climate resilience, and protect economic equity over time," Stanbro elaborated.

Protecting homes is a fundamental aspect of the initiative. Stanbro noted that for many, their home is their most valuable asset, and losing it could make it difficult to remain in Hawaiʻi.

He also referenced the recent fires in Lahaina as a stark reminder of the impacts of climate change on local families.

"We saw the tragedy in Lahaina, and we're going to have more of these types of climate impacts that threaten our communities and economic well-being," Stanbro said.

The urgency of Kalāhiki's mission has intensified following the federal government's rescission of $62.5 million intended to help low-income Hawaiʻi families install solar panels and reduce energy bills.

"In this moment where the federal government is pulling back, the Hawaiian Council has decided to step in and step forward," Stanbro asserted.

Success will depend on building strong local partnerships with community-rooted businesses. Stanbro emphasized the importance of collaborating with local solar installers and energy efficiency providers, many of whom are Native Hawaiian-run and eager to expand.

Kalāhiki also aims to protect families from predatory companies that exploit those lacking full knowledge or time to research their options.

"That's why the Hawaiian Council is stepping forward in this moment," Stanbro said, positioning Kalāhiki as a trusted resource to guide residents through their energy choices.

Currently, Kalāhiki is conducting small pilot projects to ensure the program operates smoothly before expanding. The initiative plans to grow step by step, with families joining as trusted local partners lead the way.

"We're trying to do it as a local community with local partners that folks know and see for the long haul here," Stanbro concluded.