The Hawai‘i State Energy Office is gearing up to launch a statewide Training for Residential Energy Contractors (TREC) program in January 2026, aiming to grow the local workforce that installs home energy retrofits and electrification upgrades. The initiative mixes hands-on instruction with nationally recognized credentials so island contractors can keep pace with rising demand for heat pump installations and rebate-eligible home improvements.
Partners And Local Focus
In a press release via the Hawai‘i State Energy Office, officials said HSEO is teaming up with Hā Sustainability, Everblue Training and Hui o Hauʻula to deliver the statewide curriculum. Cameron Black, managing director of HSEO’s Jobs and Outreach Branch, said the program is designed to open up career paths for island contractors while keeping the work in local hands instead of flying in outside crews.
Courses And Certifications
The training lineup will cover building-science and energy auditing credentials, heat pump installation, ENERGY STAR certifications and a multifamily energy auditing track. Kauai Now reports that specific offerings will include BPI’s Building Science Principles and Building Analyst Technician and Professional credentials, Everblue heat pump installation training, ENERGY STAR Appliance and Homes certifications, and a multifamily energy auditor course.
Federal Funding And State Allocation
The TREC program plugs into a broader federal training effort backed by $200 million that Congress set aside for state contractor training grants under the Inflation Reduction Act, as laid out in federal law. The U.S. Code authorizes the funding, and the State Energy Office reports that Hawai‘i’s share for TREC is $1,194,820, according to the Hawai‘i State Energy Office.
Who Should Sign Up And How
Contractors, electricians, HVAC technicians and other tradespeople are the primary targets for the new training, which is set to open for registration in January 2026. The effort will be promoted across the islands and will prioritize skills that match upcoming rebate-driven work. Kauai Now notes that interested participants can call 800-657-3044 for more details.
Why It Matters
State officials see TREC as a key move to build local capacity before federally funded Home Energy Rebate programs, HOMES and HEAR, start supporting whole-home retrofits and electrification projects. The U.S. Treasury outlines how these rebate streams are structured. According to Justia, Hawai‘i’s statutory goal of reaching 100% renewable electricity by 2045 continues to shape policy and investment decisions, according to Justia court records.
