Go Solar

Going solar is a win-win proposition.

Solar Water Heating

Solar water heating systems will save big bucks off your electric bill, and reduce overall energy consumption for the good of the community. Even better? The government will help you make the change.

Water heaters are one of the biggest electricity drains in an average home, second only to air conditioning.  By using the sun's free and abundant energy to heat your water, you can better manage your electric bill and start saving from day one.  On top of that, there's a 35 percent State Tax Credit (up to $2,250) and a 30 percent Federal Tax Credit (up to $2,000) for residential solar water heating systems.  Chances are, your local utility company also has its own incentives for going solar.

Think it's too much trouble to install a solar water heating system?  Think again.  Typically, installations take only one day.  And by state law, homeowner associations must allow solar installations (with prior notification and approval).

Substantial incentives are also available for commercial properties. There's a 35 percent State Tax Credit (up to $250,000) and a 30 percent Federal Tax Credit (with no limit).

Solar Electric Systems

And if you want to take the next step, consider a solar electric system, which directly converts the sun's energy into electricity you can use. In fact, depending on the system installed, you can both save on your electric bill and sell surplus energy back to the utility company.  Similar state and federal incentives area available for solar electric systems.

For example, Steve Godmere of Hawaii Energy Connection offers "The Kumu Kit," a residential starter kit based around a five-panel, 875-Watt photovoltaic solar electric system. The system can reduce the average residential electric bill on Oahu by up to 20 percent by generating approximately 1,300 kilowatt hours of electricity each year.  And the kit includes "Smart Strips", refrigerator thermometers and GreenLite nightlights.

Learn More

For more information on going solar, consider contacting a member of the Hawaii Solar Energy Association (HSEA), a professional trade association dedicated to providing quality solar products and services to Hawaii residents, and educating consumers and policy makers in the benefits of solar to individuals, businesses, communities and the state.  Call an HSEA member today for a free quote!