Hawaii Doubles Cash Rebates for Solar Water Heaters
Honolulu, Hawaii, is an ideal place to install a solar heating system. (image: images.businessweek.com)
On a per capita basis, Hawaii leads the nation in solar heat. Approximately 80,000 solar water heaters are currently providing heat and hot water for homes all over the state, but recently solar energy companies have noticed a drop in installation rates. To boost lagging sales of energy efficient heating units, the Hawaii Energy said it will double cash rebates for customers installing solar hot water heaters, according to the Star Advertiser.
From 2009 to 2010, the number of rebates given out dropped from 8,770 to 3,656. So starting on Monday, the $750 rebate will increase to $1,500 to renew interest in the program and inspire consumers to switch to solar. Officials from the Hawaii Solar Energy Association are pleased the state is a national leader in solar energy, but also said Hawaii could do better. Given the financial incentives and the perfect climatic conditions, installation rates should be higher. The group blamed the slow rates on a lack of understanding on why solar energy is a great heating option.
Hawaii Energy estimates that solar heating systems generally pay for themselves within two to four years, since they can cut water heating costs by up to 90%. The group emphasized that homeowners should register now because the offer will only be available until May 31. The rebates target consumers looking to upgrade their old heating systems, as Hawaii enacted a state law last year requiring all new homes to be built with solar water heaters.
A technician checking on some photovoltaic panels in the Aloha State (image: staradvertiser.com)
“We’re glad to be able to offer these bonus rebates to help residents take advantage of the benefits of solar water heating in these tough economic times,” said Ray Sterling, Hawaii Energy’s program manager. “Solar water heating significantly reduces electricity usage and helps to lessen our state’s dependence on imported oil.”
The increased rebate money comes from a federal stimulus grant and is dispensed through Hawaii Energy, which runs the state’s energy conservation programs. Every state offers some kind of tax credit, rebate, or financial incentive for switching to renewable energy. To find a program in your state, click here!
