HONOLULU — With a heavy reliance on imported fossil fuels, Hawaii has become the first state to require solar water heaters in new homes, pleasing environmentalists. Republican Gov. Linda Lingle signed a bill Thursday requiring the energy-saving systems starting in 2010. She said the law is “another important step in our long-term plan for energy independence in Hawaii.”
Hawaiian Electric Co. estimates that about 85,000 households, or roughly 20 percent of all homes in the islands, already have solar water heating systems. They come standard in many new homes.
“It’s one of the best things a homeowner can do,” said Darren Pai, spokesman for the utility.
A traditionally powered water heater is the largest consumer of electricity inside a home, accounting for about 25 to 40 percent of the power used. A solar system costs about $6,000, compared with about $700 for an electric or gas water heater.
Over 20 years it is estimated that solar water heating is 40 percent less expensive than a gas heater and 75 percent cheaper than an electric water heater. If you can save $50 a month out of a $150 electric bill the savings are obvious and can become an economic incentive to go green and save money while doing it.
*elements of this blog are from HECO, REMS, and Huffington post websites.
Yes! Keeping in mind the drastic environmental changes and rising fuel prices going Solar is one option open to all at minimal investments. The Solar Water heating systems are so easy to install and most of them come in a Do-it Yourself kit, With the technological advancement the once heavy, bulky hard to move panels are now available widely in light weight easy to carry by one personal only packages. The advancement in technology is not only limited to light weight, but for those concern about the asthetics of the panels, the good news is that the panels are now available with a variety of teim colors to choose from and can be easily matched to your roof. Saving about $25.oo on ones electricity bill on a residence of 4. We all use hot water, as one of our basic needs and what can be a better way, than helping our environment, saving our resources and ourself’s some money other than by investing in a Solar Water Heating System.
August 14, 2008 @ 4:29 amThere are a couple useful websites I’m aware off, that I would like to share with you
1. http://www.dsireusa.org- is a comprehensive source of information on state, local
, utility ans federal incentives that promote renewable engery ans energy efficieny.
2. http://www.powerpartnerssolar.com- one of the many manufacturers of certified Solar Water Heating Systems available. One place I saw the light weight panels and trim color options I was mentioning earlier.
Lastly, the local utilites in some areas also provide additional rebates and incentives for adding a Solar Water Heating Sytem to your exisitng water tank.
Keep the look out on. Feel Good and save- money for you, environment for us.
Aloha Solar,
Thanks for all the great insights on Solar water heaters in Hawaii, and the info on options for more forward thinking and aesthetically pleasing choices.
Mahalo,
August 26, 2008 @ 7:58 amMeghan Clair
Realtor (S), EcoBroker
Windermere Real Estate Wailea LLC