Local TV show to feature energy-saving makeovers

The Blue Planet Foundation, a nonprofit focusing on Hawaii energy-independence, invited local families to star in a new television show, “Hawaii Home Energy Makeover,” which will be produced this summer on Oahu and aired on KGMB9 this fall.

Billy V and Donalyn Dela Cruz will host the show which will show homeowners how to upgrade their properties to save energy and money. Two families will be selected for the makeovers, which will be completed at no cost to the winning applicants.

One home will be a household with high electricity bills and no real effort made to be energy efficient. Blue Planet Foundation will provide energy-saving changes such as efficient lighting, ceiling fans, insulation, Energy Star appliances and a solar water heater.

The second will feature a house that has installed basic efficiency steps already and has an existing solar hot water system. Further energy-efficiency improvements will include installation of a photovoltaic system.

“Simple home upgrades and lifestyle changes can translate into significant energy savings,” said Jeff Mikulina, executive director of the Blue Planet Foundation. “Blue Planet would like to show you just how easy it is to save money while doing your part for Hawaii’s clean-energy future.”

The show will feature local products, vendors and contractors. The foundation invited homeowners to apply online by July 31 at www.blueplanetfoundation.org/makeover.