Aloha Air Cargo is offering local residents discounted interisland shipping rates for the holidays from Dec. 1 through Dec. 24.

The holiday rate is 30 percent off the rate for general freight and applies only to personal shipments, the company said.

Shippers must go to Aloha Air Cargo's Web site (www.AlohaAirCargo.com) and register to receive a discount coupon. A printout of the coupon must be presented with the shipment, along with proof of Hawai'i residency.

Shipments are subject to a $14.95 minimum charge, plus applicable fuel surcharge, and a 6.25 percent federal transportation tax. The special rates are subject to space availability, and other restrictions may apply.

PUC GETS STIMULUS MONEY FOR TRAINING

The state Public Utilities Commission received more than $780,000 in federal stimulus money to boost its expertise in renewable energy technologies, such as smart grids and electric vehicles.

The PUC, which regulates Hawaiian Electric Co. and other utilities, said the funding from the Department of Energy is Hawai'i's share of $44 million made available to electricity regulators nationwide under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009.

The funding will be used to hire two temporary staffers for two years, and provide training to existing PUC employees. The effort will help prepare the PUC for a wide variety of renewable energy initiatives, including carbon capture and storage, energy storage, smart grids, and electric and hybrid vehicles, the agency said.

HAWAIIAN AIR RATES HIGH IN ZAGAT POLL

Hawaiian Airlines was rated among the best midsize domestic airlines in a poll by Zagat Survey LLC.

Hawaiian's premium-class service was second to Virgin America, and it placed third for its economy service, behind Virgin and Midwest Airlines.

The survey was based on the opinions of almost 5,900 frequent fliers and travel professionals and ranked the airlines based on comfort, service, food and Web site.