Myths & Facts About Hawaiian Solar Energy

Powerblocks

With so much information circulating about solar, you will almost certainly encounter misinformation about the cost, performance, and installation of Solar PV Systems. In this document, we’ll help you separate the myths from the facts and hopefully eliminate the confusion.

Myth: I missed out on the Net Energy Metering (NEM) tariff opportunity when it was available. The new tariffs require batteries, which doubles the cost of PV systems.

Fact: While it’s true that the NEM was a great opportunity and is no longer available in Hawaii^*, PV systems under the new tariffs can provide just as much savings in electricity cost, and are no more expensive than PV systems that were under the NEM tariff several years ago. That’s because the price of the panels have consistently gone down every year for the last several years. They are now so inexpensive, in fact, that the savings actually offsets the cost of batteries!

^* Although the NEM tariff is no longer available, a new tariff, NEM Plus, allows existing PV systems under the NEM tariff to be expanded, which means current PV system owners can take advantage of the lower prices on panels as well! Learn more about NEM Plus.

Myth: My neighborhood doesn’t get enough sunlight to produce electricity consistently.

Fact: Any and all areas on the island of Oahu get enough average sunlight year-round to produce electricity consistently. However, you may need slightly more panels to offset your electricity use if you’re in a less sunny place.

Myth: It’s always better to go with high-efficiency panels.

Fact: Standard-efficiency panels are the most economical choice for almost everyone. High-efficiency panels produce more electricity per square inch than standard-efficiency panels making them the best choice for homeowners with limited roof space. You don’t need a more expensive high-efficiency panel if you have enough roof space for standard-efficiency panels.

Myth: PV technology is changing so rapidly that current systems run the risk of becoming outmoded.

Fact: Though the technology used to manufacture solar panels is advancing quickly, the solar panels themselves change only incrementally. “Whereas with phones and computers, there’s a significant amount of innovation happening, with solar, it’s a lot slower,” says MJ Shiao, senior analyst for Solar Markets at Greentech Media (GTM) Research. Compared to the money you’ll save over time by installing your system now, you stand to lose money waiting for small technological gains.

Myth: My neighborhood association won’t allow me to install solar.

Fact: “The Hawaii State Legislature has acted to protect residents’ rights to install solar energy devices,” says Mark Glick, energy administrator for the Hawaii State Energy Office. View the Law.

Myth: I’ve heard that my local circuit might reach capacity for solar and that soon, people in my neighborhood won’t be able to get any more solar installations.