Whether you’re adding solar to an existing home or planning to integrate solar power into a new one, Maui is an ideal place to harvest the power of the sun for energy.
Energy from fossil fuels is one of the most expensive and vulnerable parts of Maui living. High winds, excessive rain, earthquakes, and other events can knock out power on Maui for days, or even longer. A generator works if you have enough gasoline, which is expensive and may be hard to get in an emergency.
Pros/Cons:
Right now, about 18% of generated energy in Hawaii comes from solar, ranking 16th in the nation for solar power generation. But due diligence is important before committing so you understand everything involved.
Pros:
Solar is sustainable and reduces or eliminates reliance on the electric grid. Homeowners recognize significant energy savings once the system is installed.
A solar power system that includes a battery backup powers your home continuously. You can power your home off the grid when needed, gaining energy independence during power outages.
Solar power systems can also increase the resale value of a home by as much as 4%.
Installing a new solar power system gives you a 30% federal tax credit, along with the Hawaii Energy Tax Credit of 35%, or up to $5,000 per 5 kW system for the cost of equipment and installation of a home solar power system.
Solar technology is always improving, bringing better solar energy systems to the market.
Cons:
Going solar is a considerable investment, even with tax credits. On average, a system installation here can run between $13,000 and $30,000 after tax credits.
The system is dependent on sunlight, so evaluate how much your home gets. Adding battery systems stores energy for nights and overcast days but adds to the cost of the overall system.
The available space on the rooftop and around the home must be sufficient for solar panels and for the system to be feasible.
If you decide to move, your solar system stays.
Unlike other states, Hawaii no longer allows net metering for new customers.
Cost:
While solar has many benefits like energy savings, there is a cost to get there. Buying a system, configuration, installation, maintenance, and other variables add up before you see your first electric bill reduction.
Systems are priced per watt, so much will depend on the size of your home. In Hawaii, solar panels run roughly $3.39 per watt. Consumption in the state is lower than on the Mainland. Battery systems are a significant addition, but well worth the cost. Additional parts and equipment such as wiring, conduits, and roof racking equipment are extra and add to the total cost. Permits, inspections and installation costs also add to the total.
As solar panels and the associated technologies improve, the costs decrease as well. The “clean energy” market has expanded and created new jobs for it, further improving the costs.
Over time, the system will need occasional maintenance and repair, which runs about $100 to $150 per year.
Let Pro Draft Help With Your Solar-Powered Home
We understand your desire for a greener, more sustainable space, and can help you achieve these goals. Pro Draft offers Green Building & Leed Certification for your next home or home remodeling project. Whether you want to start small or go all-in, we have the resources and experience to do it for you. Pro Draft can help design your new “green” Hawaiian home or building with LEED certification.
Call Pro Draft today at (808) 579-9050 or 1-800-499-4699 from the Mainland.
