New Solar PV Systems
Why Choose Solar PV?
Why Go Solar in Hawaii?
Switching to solar power is a smart choice with many benefits. Solar PV systems are eco-friendly, helping to reduce your carbon footprint and protect Hawaii’s environment. But the advantages go beyond sustainability.
With rising energy costs in Hawaii, solar power offers significant savings. Tax incentives, benefit programs, and lower prices make it more affordable than ever, leading to a faster return on investment.
Solar panels also boost property value, making them a great investment even if you plan to sell. Simply put, switching to solar is a smart move for your home, your wallet, and the planet.
Understanding Solar Energy: Solar PV vs. Solar Thermal
Most people know that solar panels convert sunlight into electricity to power homes and devices, but here’s a closer look at how it works.
There are two main types of solar energy: Solar PV and Solar Thermal.
Solar Thermal captures sunlight to produce heat, which is used for heating water and air in homes or commercial properties. It has limited applications.
Solar PV, on the other hand, is more versatile. PV panels generate electricity that powers everything from home appliances to lighting, water heaters, and HVAC systems. This flexibility is why Solar PV is the preferred choice for most solar installations.
How Solar Panels Work: From Sunlight to Usable Power
Solar energy starts with the solar panels, which contain layers of silicon. When sunlight hits the silicon cells, it activates the electrons, creating a flow of DC electricity.
Converting DC to AC Electricity
Since most home and commercial appliances run on AC electricity, the DC power generated by the panels needs to be converted. This is where the inverter comes in. It transforms DC electricity into usable AC electricity for your property.
The Power Grid: Managing Excess and Shortfalls
Solar PV systems connect to the power grid for flexibility. When your panels produce more electricity than you need, the excess is sent to the grid, earning you credits from the electric company. If your panels don’t generate enough—like during cloudy days or at night—the grid supplies the additional power, and you’re billed accordingly.
Hawaii’s Solar PV Installation Process
Getting a new solar PV system in Hawaii involves several steps, and SolarTech is here to make the process simple. Our dedicated team is ready to assist at every stage. Here’s an overview of what to expect:
Application
Complete a new application and allow HECO (Hawaiian Electric Company) to review it.
Review
HECO completes a possible technical and supplemental review.
Review
An interconnection requirement study is then required.
Inspect
You will then need to conduct an inspection of roof structural support for your PV system from a licensed structural engineer or architect.
Permit
Submit an electrical permit to DPP for review.
Approval
HECO must also approve the electrical permit and then DPP (Department of Planning and Permitting) will issue the electrical permit.
Installation
Then your PV system will be installed.
Installation
HECO must then inspect the PV system before it can be turned on.
Installation
HECO executes a NEW agreement and installs NEM (New Energy Metering) meter.