05-20-2009, 01:24 AM
You don't get a refund on your Helco hookup costs for any reason that I know of. But you would still get all the tax credits for solar hot water once you have income in HI. I didn't have enough to get the full benefit, and you still have to front $4500 and wait for tax time to get your refund. I imagine they will keep getting renewed. I would check with Helco directly about grid tie in and make sure you have system for when Helco goes down. Our power goes out here in Seaview at least once a month, usually for no apparent reason, i.e. no storm or other explanation. I've gotten my electric bill down to about $80 which is tolerable. My appliances are energy star, gas dryer, and shutting off all my big TV, stereo stuff completely from the power plug took off at least $20 a month alone.
I'd go all solar if I could afford it.
I'd go all solar if I could afford it.