HomeMy WebLinkAboutR&D_Professional Services Hawaii County FY26_Ha Sustainability LLCCOUNTY OF HAWAII
NOTICE TO PROVIDERS
OF PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES
P r o p o s a l
June 20th, 2025
HRS 103D-304
Aloha Mr. Medina,
Hā Sustainability is pleased to submit our qualifications for consideration under the Research
& Development categories. As a Hawai'i-based consulting firm, we are dedicated to
empowering communities, organizations, and governments to navigate pathways toward a
sustainable, resilient, and equitable future.
Our extensive expertise in community-centered planning, strategic sustainability systems,
and stakeholder engagement uniquely positions us to deliver tailored solutions that address
Hawai'i’s environmental, social, and economic challenges. From facilitating meaningful
collaboration with diverse stakeholders to implementing innovative clean energy,
decarbonization, and climate action strategies, we approach each project with cultural
sensitivity and a commitment to lasting impact.
Enclosed, you will find our statement of qualifications, showcasing our team’s diverse
expertise, significant project achievements, and alignment with the County of Hawai‘i’s
sustainability and community development goals. We are particularly interested in
contributing under the following subcategories: RD.1 Community Planning (Community and
Economic Development, Community Engagement, Culture and Indigenous Data Science,
Strategic Planning, Sustainability Systems), RD.2 Grant Writing, RD.3 Public Relations and Event
Planning, RD.4 Marketing and Social Media, RD.5 Special Event Management, RD.6 Data
Science – Project Management, RD.14 Instructional Systems (Design of Training, Facilitation,
and Evaluation Programs), and RD.20 Workforce Research and Analysis.
We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate and look forward to bringing actionable,
community-driven solutions to support the County’s vision.
Mahalo nui loa,
Alex de Roode & Hannah Peila
Co-Owners & Principal Consultants
Hā Sustainability
Cover Letter
T i t l e P a g e
Request forProfessional Services
RFP# HRS 103D-304
Subject
NOTICE TO PROVIDERS OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
The Principal Consulting Firm
Hā Sustainability
PO Box 1147, Kula, HI, USA 96790
Contact Person
Alex de Roode
Telephone: +1 (808) 268-7589
E-mail Address: alex@hasustainability.com
Hā Sustainability is a Hawaiʻi-based sustainability consulting firm with a
core mission to empower individuals, organizations, and communities
to create a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future. We provide
innovative solutions tailored to meet our clients' unique needs and are
dedicated to addressing the increasing uncertainties and risks
associated with global climate change.
Brief Overview of Hā Sustainability
Table of contents
Statement of Qualifications........................................................................................................4
Firm Details..............................................................................................................................4
Age of the Firm and Employee Information.............................................................................4
Education, Training, and Qualifications of Key Employees.....................................................4
Recent Projects and Client References...................................................................................7
Promotional Literature...........................................................................................................10
3
Statement of Qualifications
Firm Details
● Firm Name: Hā Sustainability LLC
● Principal Place of Business: Kula, Hawai'i
● Office Locations: Maui and O‘ahu
● Contact Information:
○ Email: hannah@hasustainability.com
○ Phone: (808) 727-9316
● Website: hasustainability.com
Age of the Firm and Employee Information
● Established: February 2023
● Average Number of Employees Over the Past 5 Years: 4
Hā Sustainability LLC is a Hawai'i-based consulting firm dedicated to advancing sustainability,
climate action, and energy resilience. Specializing in community engagement, climate action
planning and implementation, and integrated sustainability systems and analysis, we collaborate
with individuals, organizations, and communities to build a resilient and inclusive future.
Education, Training, and Qualifications of Key Employees
1. Alex de Roode (M.S., C.E.M., LEED AP)
Title: Co-Owner and Principal Consultant
Alex de Roode is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience in clean energy,
decarbonization strategies, and sustainable development. Alex serves as the Co-Owner and
Principal Consultant of Hā Sustainability, leading company strategy, technical analysis, and
business development. Holding a Master’s degree in Bioresource Engineering from McGill
University and currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Building Services and Energy Systems at the Royal
Institute of Technology (KTH) in Sweden, Alex combines a strong academic foundation with
practical expertise. As a Certified Energy Manager (CEM), LEED Accredited Professional (LEED
AP), and PEER Pro, Alex has led transformative energy and sustainability initiatives across
government, academia, and private sectors.
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As the Energy Commissioner for the County of Maui, Alex managed a $2M+ annual budget,
leading critical decarbonization and energy benchmarking projects. He played a pivotal role in
developing the County of Maui Climate Action and Resilience Plan, which laid the groundwork
for emissions reductions and climate adaptation strategies across Maui, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i.
This effort incorporated extensive community engagement and stakeholder input to align
technical recommendations with local needs and values. Additionally, Alex played an important
role in the update of the Maui Island Water Use and Development Plan, successfully integrating
technical analysis with community-driven priorities, ensuring alignment with sustainability and
resilience goals.
In academia, Alex has made significant contributions as a Lecturer at the University of Hawaiʻi
Maui College, where he designed and delivered courses on sustainable energy systems and
building performance. During his tenure as the Executive Director of the Sustainable Living
Institute of Maui, Alex led professional training programs, advanced campus sustainability
planning efforts, and implemented energy-saving measures. His initiatives supported the
achievement of LEED certifications, enhanced energy benchmarking practices, and promoted
green workforce development across Maui’s educational institutions and government facilities.
Alex’s expertise also includes leading the development and implementation of an Energy
Savings Performance Contracting (ESPC) initiative during his tenure with the County of Maui.
This project focused on improving energy efficiency, deploying renewable energy systems, and
reducing operational costs across County-owned facilities. Alex spearheaded strategic planning
efforts, coordinated with multiple County of Maui departments, and oversaw the integration of
energy-efficient technologies and processes to optimize infrastructure performance. Through
his leadership, the ESPC initiative advanced the County’s clean energy and decarbonization
goals, demonstrating the effectiveness of aligning technical solutions with operational and
sustainability strategies.
Renowned for his ability to bridge technical knowledge with community priorities, Alex has
cultivated strong connections across Hawai‘i’s energy and climate resilience communities. He
has worked extensively with cultural and community-based organizations, fostering inclusive
dialogues and tailoring outreach strategies to address the specific needs of underserved
populations. His leadership in navigating regulatory landscapes and advancing decarbonization
initiatives has cemented his reputation as a forward-thinking and community-focused
sustainability expert.
Alex’s extensive background positions him as a leader in advancing Hawai‘i’s clean energy
transition, building resilience, and fostering community engagement. His dedication to
integrating innovative solutions with community needs continues to drive meaningful and
lasting change across the state.
Education:
Master of Science in Bioresource Engineering (McGill University)
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Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs & Economics (University of Colorado Boulder)
Training:
LEED Accredited Professional (USGBC)
Certified Energy Manager (Association of Energy Engineers)
2. Hannah Shipman-Peila (B.S., LEED GA)
Title: Co-Owner and Principal Consultant
Hannah Shipman-Peila is a visionary leader in sustainability, climate action planning, and
community engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Social Sciences, with
a focus on Law and Politics, from the University of Kent in England, and is a LEED Green
Associate, underscoring her expertise in green building design and sustainable practices.
Hannah is the Co-Owner and Principal Consultant of Hā Sustainability, a Hawai‘i-based
consulting firm dedicated to empowering individuals, organizations, and communities to create
a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future. At Hā Sustainability, she drives innovative
solutions tailored to Hawai‘i’s unique environmental, social, and economic landscapes. The firm
specializes in climate action planning, clean energy strategies, community engagement, and
natural resource management, combining local knowledge with cutting-edge practices to
advance meaningful change.
As the Green Building and Resilient Housing Specialist for the County of Maui, Hannah played a
pivotal role in advancing the County’s climate and sustainability goals. She led the development
of the County of Maui Climate Action and Resilience Plan, co-managing the plan alongside
initiatives such as the Countywide Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment, a heat map index,
resiliency hub initiatives, EV charging infrastructure, and guides for renewable energy and
resilient housing. Her leadership integrated stakeholder input, fostered alignment across
departments, and delivered actionable solutions tailored to the unique needs of Maui,
Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i.
Hannah’s tenure as Project Impact Director at Blue Planet Foundation highlights her ability to
lead impactful statewide initiatives. She spearheaded energy efficiency workshops and
transportation electrification education while managing projects that supported Hawai‘i’s
transition to 100% clean energy. Hannah helped shape public discourse on energy policy and
intervened in regulatory proceedings to advocate for clean energy solutions. Her efforts
ensured that underserved communities were prioritized in statewide energy education and
advocacy initiatives.
Hannah also brings a wealth of experience in stakeholder engagement and community
outreach. She has organized and facilitated workshops, public meetings, and town hall sessions
to educate communities on sustainability issues and integrate local input into planning
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processes. Her work with community-based organizations has focused on developing tailored
outreach strategies for hard to reach communities, ensuring inclusivity and cultural relevance.
In addition to her professional work, Hannah serves as a Vice President of the Maui Huliau
Foundation, Founder and President of the Huliau Alumni Council, and a steering committee
member and workstream lead of the Energy Equity Hui. Her leadership in these roles
demonstrates her deep commitment to empowering communities and advancing equity in
climate and energy planning.
Known for her public speaking expertise, strategic mindset, and data-driven program
management skills, Hannah is a transformative leader dedicated to promoting environmental
literacy, sustainability, and resilience across Hawai‘i. Her collaborative approach and proven
ability to mobilize stakeholders position her as a trusted partner in advancing Hawai‘i’s climate
and energy goals.
Education:
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Social Science with a focus in Law and Politics (University
of Kent, Canterbury, England)
Training:
LEED Green Associate (USGBC)
Recent Projects and Client References
1. NREL Lahaina Energy Partnership
● Description: The Lahaina Energy Partnership is a collaborative,
community-driven energy planning initiative designed to empower the Lahaina
community in shaping its energy future following the August 8th wildfire. This
project emphasizes community-led decision-making, ensuring that energy
solutions reflect the unique values, needs, and priorities of the local population.
The program involves interactive co-design workshops, smaller Hui convenings,
and continuous feedback loops between technical experts and community
members to align technical assistance with real-time input. The initiative fosters
transparency, trust, and collaboration among local organizations, stakeholders,
and technical experts to create a sustainable energy future for Lahaina. This
project includes the development of a comprehensive Lahaina Community
Priorities Report and an Energy Implementation Plan.
● Client: National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
● Contact:
○ Robin Burton
Project Manager
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National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Phone: (808) 205-3993
Email: robin.burton@nrel.gov
Address: 15013 Denver West Parkway, Golden, CO 80401
2. University of Guam Carbon Credit Program
● Description: This project supports the development and implementation of a
carbon credit program aimed at fostering climate resilience and sustainable
development in Guam and similar island ecosystems. Hā Sustainability
contributed to creating frameworks for carbon sequestration and trading
mechanisms, integrating ecosystem preservation strategies and climate
adaptation measures.
● Client: University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability & Sea Grant
● Contact:
○ Clementine Schnabel
Micronesia Challenge Guam Coordinator
University of Guam Center for Island Sustainability & Sea Grant
Phone: (671) 686-9376
Email: schnabelc@triton.uog.edu
Address: 303 University Drive, UOG Station, Mangilao, Guam 96913
3. County of Maui Climate Action and Resiliency Plan (CARP)
● Description: Hā Sustainability team members played a pivotal role in developing
the County of Maui’s Climate Action and Resiliency Plan and accompanying
Countywide Climate Change Vulnerability Assessment. This comprehensive plan
guided the County’s efforts in emissions reduction and climate adaptation,
incorporating extensive stakeholder and community engagement. Through
workshops, surveys, and public meetings across Maui, Moloka‘i, and Lāna‘i, Hā
Sustainability ensured the integration of diverse community perspectives. The
initiative also included the formation of the CARP Advisory Committee and
Resiliency Hui to align technical recommendations with cultural values and
operational needs.
● Client: County of Maui
● Contact:
○ Keani Rawlins-Fernandez, Council Member Maui County Council
● Phone: (808) 270-7678
● Email: keani.rawlins@mauicounty.us
○ Tara Owens, Extension Faculty, Coastal Processes and Hazards
Specialist
● Phone: (727) 501-3226
● Email: taram@hawaii.edu
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4. Maui United Way - EPA Brownfields Community-Wide Assessment Project
● Description: Hā Sustainability is leading community outreach and engagement
for the US EPA-funded Brownfields Community-Wide Assessment project on
Maui. The project aims to identify, assess, and plan for the cleanup and
revitalization of potentially contaminated properties, particularly in underserved
areas. Hā Sustainability is responsible for convening and facilitating the
Brownfields Advisory Committee (BAC), ensuring that community voices guide
site selection, reuse planning, and cultural considerations. The team is also
developing a community engagement strategy that supports inclusive
participation, integrates cultural and environmental priorities, and builds trust with
local landowners and stakeholders. This work lays the foundation for equitable
redevelopment and long-term environmental health.
● Client: Maui United Way
● Contact:
○ Jeeyun Lee, Director of Impact
○ Phone: (808) 629-9764
○ Email: Jee@mauiunitedway.org
5. Four Counties Sustainability Network (4CSN) – Strategic Convening and
Network Coordination
● Description: Hā Sustainability is leading the planning and facilitation of the Four
Counties Sustainability Network (4CSN), a collaborative initiative connecting the
counties of Maui, Hawai‘i, Kaua‘i, and the City & County of Honolulu. This project
supports the counties in identifying shared sustainability priorities, strengthening
inter-county collaboration, and creating a formal structure for ongoing
coordination. As part of this effort, Hā Sustainability is organizing a two-day
strategic planning convening and retreat on Maui, which includes facilitated work
sessions, inter-island networking, and service projects rooted in Maui’s local
context. Responsibilities include developing the draft network charter,
administering member engagement surveys, and facilitating collaborative
planning sessions. Funded by the Urban Sustainability Directors Network
(USDN), this work advances long-term alignment of climate, energy, and
sustainability goals across Hawai‘i's counties.
● Client: Urban Sustainability Directors Network (USDN)
● Contact:
○ Christina Kaser, Energy Coordinator
County of Kauai
Phone: (808) 241.1950
Email: ckaser@kauai.gov
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Promotional Literature
Attached, please find:
● Hā Sustainability Brochure: A one-pager summarizing our core services and mission
● Website: hasustainability.com
10
Collaboration
Core Services
Greenhouse Gas Inventories and Carbon Accounting Solutions
Climate Action and Resiliency Planning
Climate Adaptation and Risk & Vulnerability Assessments
Clean Energy & Decarbonization Planning / Sustainability Planning and Policy Development
Energy Efficiency Planning, Energy Audits, and Energy Savings Performance Contracting Project Facilitation
Sustainable Mobility Planning, Clean Fleet Management and Optimization, and Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging
Stakeholder and Community Engagement
Carbon Credit Project Development
Facility Site Visits and Assessments
Professional Development, Training, & Workshop Retreats
Sustainability Certification Facilitation and Support
Community-Led Energy Planning
Sustainable Business Planning and Social- & Eco-Startup Advisory Services
Sustainable Land-Use Planning, Sustainable Agriculture Planning, Water Resources Planning
Brownfields Assessment and Reuse Planning
Core Values
Our Approach
We use proven methodologies that combine
industry best practices, community and
stakeholder engagement, and data-driven analysis
to help clients develop and implement sustainable
strategies that drive business and organizational
value, responsibility, and accountability. We also
approach our work using an island perspective,
recognizing that islands and remote communities
face unique challenges requiring them to prioritize
self-sufficiency and circular local economies. We
bring this ethos to our work across all communities
on Island Earth, whether they be a small remote
island community, or a sprawling metropolis
located on a continent. In these uncertain and
changing times, we must all seek out new and
traditional approaches that emphasize local
sustainability, resilience, and self-sufficiency.
Please let us help you on this noble journey.
Innovation Inclusion Collabor-
ation
Accounta-
bility Continuous
Learning Ethical Boldness Trust
A Hawaii-based sustainability consulting firm
www.hasustainability.com
We empower individuals, organizations, and communities to
create a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for all.
At Hā Sustainability, we are committed to
helping our clients navigate the complex
landscape of environmental, social, and
economic sustainability by providing
innovative solutions that are tailored to meet
their unique needs. We are also dedicated to
helping our clients address the increasing
uncertainty and risks associated with global
climate change. We do this by providing
innovative climate mitigation and adaptation
solutions, such as decarbonization strategies
and climate resiliency planning.
We believe that sustainability is not just about
preserving the natural environment but also
about building resilient communities and
promoting social justice. Our team of experts
works collaboratively with our clients to
create practical and effective strategies and
action plans that address the challenges of
climate change, resource depletion, and social
inequality. We work closely with our clients to
develop customized sustainability strategies
that are grounded in data-driven analysis,
stakeholder and community engagement, and
practical implementation.
Through our work, we strive to make a positive
impact on the world by helping our clients
create sustainable and responsible
organizations, profitable businesses, promote
environmental stewardship, and contribute to
building thriving local communities. We are
committed to achieving our mission with
integrity, professionalism, and a deep respect
for the people and places that we serve.
In ʻŌlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language), Hā
means breath of life. It is the life force or
energy that flows through us as living beings.
In order to achieve balance, we must nurture
our Hā for it to be healthy and thrive.
This is analogous to how we must treat all
living things for them to thrive. This includes
our modern concept of energy systems. If we
manage energy or Hā in a way that is not
balanced, by for example disrupting the
carbon cycle, we will not thrive as a global
society. Hā Sustainability is dedicated to
guiding its clients towards a more balanced
approach to managing their Hā.
This includes providing our clients with
energy decarbonization solutions in the
electricity, building, and transportation
sectors. Rapid decarbonization is a key
solution to reestablishing balance in our
shared global Hā. However, this
decarbonization must be approached in a way
that is balanced and enduring. As such, we
work with our clients to not only address the
technical aspects of decarbonization, but also
to balance equity, environmental, and
economic aspects of decarbonization. Our
goal is to work in partnership towards a just
transition from our current state of
unbalanced Hā to one that is in harmony with
nature and all living beings. This is Hā
Sustainability: we invite you to join us and
humbly offer you our services to achieve
balanced Hā together.
Contact Us + Learn More www.hasustainability.com info@hasustainability.com
A Hawaii-based sustainability consulting firm
www.hasustainability.com
MAHALO
www.hasustainability.comWebsite
+1 (808) 268-7589Phone
Address PO Box 1147, Kula, HI 96790
alex@hasustainability.comEmail
Hā SustainabilityCompany