Hawaiian Electric opens applications for shared solar projects
Developers of small and large shared solar projects have an opportunity in Hawaii due to two new offers announced by Hawaiian Electric last week, which call for developmental ideas on Hawaii Island, Maui, and Oahu.
“We’re looking for developers to help launch this latest phase of shared solar, designed to bring savings and a chance to participate in the renewable energy movement to many more customers, especially those who aren’t able to install a private rooftop solar system,” Lani Shinsato, director of customer energy resources, programs for Hawaiian Electric, said.
On the smaller side, an application process is open for projects up to 250 kW, offered on a first-come basis. Each island has its capacity limit under the program, and once each is full, no more applications will be accepted. Developers and subscriber organizations able to recruit customers to be subscribers are welcome to register and apply.
For projects at least 250 kW, a new competitive request for proposal (RFP) bidding process will accept ideas through Aug. 17, 2022. Developers, companies, and others authorized to do business in Hawaii can submit proposals, which will be put through an evaluation process before some will be chosen to become subscriber organizations.
In both cases, electricity from shared solar projects will be added to the island grid to help the state reach renewable energy goals. Subscribers will be able to benefit from electricity generated in this way on their islands, gaining credits on their monthly electric bills based on their level of project participation. Currently, the shared solar program’s capacity tops 250 MW and may include room for energy storage in addition to the solar efforts.
Hawaiian Electric will host a virtual presentation on the development effort on June 7, 2022, at 9:30 a.m.
