Welcome to our FAQ page! Here, you'll find answers to the most common questions about our solar solutions, installation process, and how to maximize your energy savings. Whether you're new to solar energy or a current customer looking for more information, we've got you covered. If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to contact us—our team is always here to help.
Yes, there are both federal and state income-based tax credits available for solar installations. The federal tax credit is currently 30%, while the state of Hawaii offers an additional 35% tax credit for each 5 kW system. Together, these tax credits can significantly reduce the net cost of your solar system by over 50%, making solar energy an even more attractive and affordable option for your home.
The installation timeframe can depend on several factors, including the type of permit and any additional requirements specific to your location. However, in most cases, our systems are installed within 6-8 weeks, or roughly a couple of months from the time of your order. Once we have all the necessary approvals, the actual installation typically takes 2-3 days.
While a battery is not strictly necessary, it is strongly recommended. Without a battery, any excess energy you produce and export back to the grid only earns you a fraction of what that energy is worth. Having a battery enhances the resilience of your home by providing backup power during outages, allows you to offset paying peak Time-of-Use (TOU) rates, and maximizes your solar investment by storing excess energy for use when you need it most.
For new systems, through HECO's Smart DER export program, you will receive credits for any additional energy exported to the grid. If you are a NEM (Net Energy Metering) customer, the NEM+ system is not allowed to export excess energy. Similarly, for the new SMART DER non-export option, the system is designed not to export any excess energy to the grid.
Feel free to give us a call, send us an email, or send us a text. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process. We look forward to assisting you!