HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Saving money on energy bills in Hawaiʻi is something everyone can do, and it’s not only good for your wallet. And it's also great for the environment which many of us in Hawaiʻi tend to be concerned about. Get Hawaii's latest morning news delivered to your inbox, sign up for News 2 You So, in honor of National Energy Saving Week, KHON2.com did a bit of digging and found some simple ways you can reduce your energy use and lower your electric bill in Hawaiʻi. Paint your roof white Did you know that painting your roof white or using reflective roofing materials can help keep your home cooler? This is because white surfaces reflect more sunlight, which can lower the temperature inside your home. In Hawaiʻi, where it’s often humid and warm, this can mean you need less air conditioning. In fact, this is a technique used in many parts of the world to help reduce cooling costs. Build or install a cool cave (thermal mass) A "cool cave" or thermal mass technique involves using materials that naturally store and release heat, like concrete, stone or brick. This is something seen in high-end homes, but it's actually a practice that you can replicate in smaller ways. By placing heavy materials on the outside walls or even creating a small space that stays cool, you can reduce the need for air conditioning. For example, having a stone pathway or a heavy stone wall on your lanai can help keep your house cooler without using energy. Take advantage of Hawaiʻi’s sunshine Hawaiʻi has lots of sunshine. So, why not use it to your advantage? Solar panels are a great way to save money because they turn sunlight into electricity. Installing solar panels can be a big investment at first; but in the long run, they can save you a lot of money on your energy bills. Many homes in Hawaiʻi use solar energy to power everything from lights to air conditioning. Automated blinds Automated or smart window blinds might sound fancy, but they can be an affordable way to control your home’s temperature. These blinds open and close at specific times of the day to help keep your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. For example, they can automatically close during the hottest part of the day to block the sun’s rays to reduce the need for air conditioning. They’re a great option for those looking for a little bit of luxury without the big price tag. Create natural shade with plants Instead of relying on air conditioning, consider planting trees or installing green vines that will naturally cool your home. A strategically placed tree on the west side of your home can block the sun’s hottest rays and lower indoor temperatures and reducing the need for cooling. This also adds beauty and fresh air to your surroundings. Plus, plants can improve your mood and create a relaxing environment. Install solar-reflective film on windows You don’t need to replace your windows to get the benefits of energy-efficient glass. Instead, you can apply solar-reflective film to your existing windows. These films block UV rays and heat and reduces the amount of heat that enters your home. This is often seen in upscale office buildings or luxury homes, but you can easily find affordable window film options for residential use. It’s a simple DIY project that can keep your house cooler and save you money on your cooling costs. Upgrade your water heater to a solar water heater While many people think about solar panels for electricity, solar water heaters are another option that can be especially useful in Hawaiʻi. They use the sun’s energy to heat your water, which can be a large portion of your energy bill. These systems have become more affordable and efficient over the years and make them a smart investment for those who want to cut down on energy use. Install smart thermostats and lighting You can get even more high-tech by using smart devices. Smart thermostats learn your habits and adjust the temperature of your home automatically to save energy when you’re not there. Similarly, smart lighting systems can turn lights off when rooms are empty or adjust the brightness based on the time of day. These tools are easy to install and can make a huge difference in reducing energy use. Install a cool roof In addition to painting your roof white, another option is to install a "cool roof". These are specially designed roofs made with materials that reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roofs. This can drastically reduce your cooling needs, especially in a sunny state like Hawaiʻi. It’s a bit more expensive than painting, but it could pay off in the long run. Use heat-absorbing concrete driveways While most people focus on their homes when it comes to energy savings, what about the driveway? Concrete and asphalt driveways can absorb a lot of heat, which can raise the temperature of your home. Heat-absorbing or "cool" concrete, however, is designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat. Installing this type of driveway may seem like a "rich" upgrade, but it’s more affordable than you think and can make a significant difference in your home’s temperature and your energy bills. Green roofs (living roofs) Green roofs, or living roofs, are another trend you might think is for the ultra-wealthy. But they are becoming more accessible, especially in Hawaiʻi’s tropical climate. A green roof involves growing plants on top of your house, which helps with insulation, cooling, and reducing rainwater runoff. It’s a natural way to save energy while adding a beautiful, eco-friendly feature to your home. Plus, many local companies specialize in installing green roofs; so, you might be able to find a more affordable option than you think. By using these tips during National Energy Saving Week and beyond, you can save money on your energy bills and help protect the environment in Hawaiʻi. Get news on the go with KHON 2GO, KHON's morning podcast, every morning at 8 Small changes can make a big difference, so start today and enjoy a more energy-efficient home!