Frequently Asked Questions

The policy seeks to increase awareness of usage and ultimately lead to reduced energy consumption. Moreover, it supports the DOD goals to reduce energy consumption. The program is set up so that service members who conserve are financially rewarded through rebates. It is not a profit center for the Air Force, JBPHH, Hickam Communities or Lend lease.

The policy provides that those who conserve will be rewarded, by receiving refunds. Savings in energy consumption will benefit Airmen and families by allowing more money for home and community improvements.

When live billing begins in 2014, service members will be responsible for electricity consumption above the utility allowance (UA). Water usage will be included on energy conservation statements to help families address water conservation in their home. They will not be billed for water.

All new and renovated homes at Hickam Communities have electric and water meters.

Sending residents monthly energy conservation statements will create awareness among families about their household electricity consumption, help families who are high electricity users reduce their consumption, and prepare families for the launch of the live billing program in 2014.

BAH includes a portion for utilities that should cover costs for normal energy use. This will not change. The majority of families should experience no out-of-pocket expenses.

The size of a family is definitely proportional to the family's cost of living. However, other than bedroom assignment, family size is not a factor in determining RECP baselines, just as it isn't a factor for determining Basic Allowance for Housing (BAH) with Dependents. Members of the same rank with dependents receive the same housing and utility allowance regardless of the number of children they have. To avoid excessive electric usage, large families must be more conscious of their usage habits. Here in Hawaii, service members with larger families do receive a higher Cost of Living Allowance (COLA) that may help address this. The mock billing period should help you and your family learn just how much electricity you use compared to your neighbors living in a similar house, and implement energy saving tips as necessary.

You will find the reports to be very user-friendly, but should you want more details simply log on to www.minolusa.com or call 1-888-636-0493.

The Air Force has not yet launched its live billing program at Hickam Communities. It anticipates starting it in 2014.

Yes. To support the DOD program, Hickam Communities will provide energy-saving tips and educational programs to families through its SYNERGY (Saving Your Nation’s Energy) program, through information and resources found on its website, and on energy conservation statements.