Alternative ("green") Energy for Maui:
Technologies, Organizations and Demand

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  • CLEAN ENERGY FOR GREEN MAUI


  • MAUI ELECTRIC COMPANY



  • WIND ENERGY



  • SOLAR ENERGY

      • Solar Glossary [HEA Hawaii Solar, LLC]

      • WIKIPEDIA

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • PV Systems Design
        • Design & Installation of PV Systems
        • PV Theory II
        • The Transition from Standard PV to AC Modules by Miles C. Russell, GreenRay Solar (Feb 2010) "We are entering the new age of PV systems and it is all about micro-inverters and ultimately, fully integrated PV modules that directly produce AC power. The idea of combining a standard PV module with a small DC-to-AC inverter, or micro-inverter, occurred first in the early 1990s as a concept to simplify PV systems. Today, AC Modules are the next frontier for PV technology and for very good reason. ..."
        • PVResources pvresources.com is an independent web site related to photovoltaic technnologies and applications. It was developed as non-commercial helpful information to serve teachers, students and others interested in photovoltaics.
          • Photovoltaic Inverters "...Central inverters are used in large applications. Many times they can be connected according to the "master-slave" criteria, when the succeeding inverter switches on only when enough solar radiation is available or in case of main inverter malfunction. Inverters connected to module strings are used in wide power range applications allowing for more reliable operation. Module inverters are used in small photovoltaic systems. Such solutions are applicable to larger systems, however, in practice cheaper, and less reliable solution of central inverter or string inverters are used..."

      • Hawaii PV Coalition The Hawaii PV Coalition was formed in 2005 to support the greater use and more rapid diffusion of solar electric applications across the state.
        Working with business owners, homeowners and local and national stakeholders in the PV industry, the Coalition has been active during the past two state legislative sessions supporting pro-PV and renewable energy bills and educating elected representatives on the benefits of Hawaii-based solar electric applications. 
        Hawaii PV Coalition.Org 
PO Box 81501, Haiku, HI 96708 (Maui) 
Ph (808) 579 8288;  Fx (808) 575-9878 
Email: info@hawaiipvcoalition.org
        The 2010 House of the Sun Solar Tour was held on Saturday June 5th, 2010. "This tour will feature several homes and business throughout Maui that are currently utilizing Solar PV technology, as well as other green technologies. In addition to seeing solar in action, you'll get practical information on monthly savings, tax credits and be able to ask your questions."

      • Cost-Effectiveness of Solar Water Heating in Hawaii [March 2008]

      • Green Energy

      • Information on Maui Photovoltaic Options [www.mauirealestate.com] 7/28/2008 by Pete Jalbert R(S) "...some of the facts that I thought may be of value for those that are considering installing a PV system..."

      • U.S. DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY SELECTS HAWAI`I FOR ENERGY MODERNIZATION PROJECT: $15 million Hawai`i project to install electrical distribution system at Maui substation For Immediate Release: April 21, 2008 [pdf] part of a nationwide demonstration to modernize the country’s electricity grid system. This latest project supports the Hawai’i Clean Energy Initiative, an unprecedented partnership formed in January between the State of Hawaii and the U.S. Department of Energy which aims to have 70 percent of Hawai‘i’s energy come from clean, renewable sources by 2030. This will reduce the state’s dependence on imported oil and help bring energy price stability to Hawai‘i consumers. Last month, the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL), the nation’s primary laboratory for energy efficiency and renewable energy research and development, signed a memorandum of understanding with UPC Wind to establish a Remote Research Affiliate Partner Site at UPC Wind’s Kaheawa Wind Farm on Maui.

      • DOE to Work with Turbine Manufacturers to Expand U.S. Wind Power June 4, 2008 DOE's National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) ... has also recently signed agreements with Siemens Power Generation and First Wind, a wind power developer. Siemens is launching a new research and development facility in nearby Boulder, Colorado, and has agreed to locate and test a commercial-scale wind turbine at NREL's National Wind Technology Center (NWTC). First Wind (formerly called UPC Wind Partners, LLC) owns and operates the 30-megawatt Kaheawa Wind Farm in West Maui, Hawaii, and has agreed to let the NWTC establish a Remote Research Affiliate Partner Site at the facility. The Maui satellite of NWTC will collaborate with First Wind on studies to develop advanced wind energy technologies, including energy storage and integration of renewable electricity into Maui's electrical grid. See the press releases from NREL, Siemens, and First Wind.

      • Commercial Solar Energy Companies (vendors of photovoltaic systems [PV])

        • Photovoltaic System Businesses in Hawaii (Guide)

        • Haleakala Solar ["Plugging Maui into the Sun for over 30 Years"]

        • HEA Hawaii Solar, LLC a "photovoltaic energy development, design, installation and financing firm with a strong commitment towards customer satisfaction and fulfilling the goals of Hawaii’s Clean Energy Initiative. Whether you need solar panels installed on the roof or grounds, HEA can completely design and install your commercial PV system starting from 15 kilowatts on up, and through its Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) financing arrangement, HEA can also deliver you a state-of-the-art PV system at no out-of-pocket cost to you..... Based on Maui,...."
          • Economic Incentives "There are four major economic incentives to an owner of a commercial PV facility. These are (1) Federal tax benefits, (2) State of Hawaii tax benefits, (3) accelerated depreciation, and (4) the revenue received from the sale of the energy (in the case of a third party owning the facility through a PPA) or savings in electricity costs enjoyed by a building owner who also owns the PV facility...."

          • Net Energy Metering

          • Solar Glossary

        • HNU Energy (see below)

        • Maui Pacific Solar
          P.O. Box 351
Puunene, HI 96784
Lic. C #27155
Direct: (808) 280 - 6627 
Fax: (808) 572 - 9872
          The founder of Maui Pacific Solar, Inc., Mike Carroll, has been installing solar systems on Maui for over 30 years. Maui Pacific Solar, Inc. is a locally owned and operated solar hot water and photovoltaic installation company for both residential and commercial projects.

        • Maui Solar Energy Systems Maui Solar Energy Systems specializes in the design and installation of electrical generating photovoltaic systems mounted on your roof or on poles on your property. We are located in Kihei, Hawaii and serve the entire State of Hawaii.

        • Maui Solar Project LLC (Kihei) 
          3432 Keha Drive #B
Kihei, HI 96753
phone: 808.269.2352
fax: 808.748.0020
e-mail: info@mauisolarproject.org
          Maui Solar Project (MSP) designs and sells renewable energy systems for residential and commercial applications. "Please join us as we strive towards energy independence in the Hawaiian Islands."

        • Nidon Clean Energy (see under Consultants & Systems Designers)

        • Rising Sun Specializing in professional design, sales, and installation of solar electric photovoltaic systems (PV) and solar hot water systems, Rising Sun has pioneered solar net-metered systems in Hawaii.
          Solar Electric (PV) saves you money and helps reduce global warming and dependence on foreign oil. Rising Sun Solar specializes in commercial and residential grid tie net-metered solar electric (PV) Systems.

          • Maui company plugs into rising demand for alternative energy, Pacific Business News, August 15, 2008 Maui Electric Co. customers currently pay 40 cents per kilowatt-hour, up from 16.5 cents when Rising Sun started six years ago. That means the average Maui home, using 600 kilowatt hours a month, is seeing a $240 electric bill compared with less than $100 at the previous rate.

        • SUNETRIC: Hawaii's Solar Authority Sunetric is the largest locally owned and operated full-service renewable energy firm in Hawaii. We specialize in residential and commercial photovoltaic (PV) system consultation, design, and engineering, permitting, financing, installation, tax incentives, utility integration, equipment supply, monitoring, and maintenance.
          • Maui is a Great Place for Solar [SUNETRIC: Hawaii's Solar Authority] "When it comes to solar power, few places offer so much potential as Maui. While there are sunny spots and advantageous conditions all over the Hawaiian Islands, Maui has two main facets that help it to stand out as an excellent venue for solar power—the economics of power generation and tropical weather....."

        • Maui Solar Energy Software Corporation [Still in Business?]

      • (PV) Energy R&D & other (PV) Energy-Related Manufacturing Companies on Maui

        • HNU Energy ["Harnessing the Power of Light"] --- "HNU Energy focuses on the energy and efficiency markets. HNU Photonics, Hnu Energy's parent company, is a Maui-based science and technology company founded in 2006. The 6,300 square foot facility in Wailuku’s Mill Yard includes an optics lab, a laser facility, an electronics lab, a machine shop, facilities for rapid prototype production, warehousing, and management offices."
          --- hnuphotonics.com/ [We have extensive manufacturing capability for developing mechanical, opto-mechanical or electro-opto-mechanical technologies that enable customers to bring new products and technologies to market effectively And economically.]

          David Ivy, Project Manager
          Chavnccy Brown
          (have visited SB on May 25, 2010)

      • CitronSolarFarm.com Citron Solar Farm --- Maui is the merger of the founding concepts of Cliflton M. Hasegawa & Associates, LLC and Hasegawa & Kaina – The BioGardeners www.cliftonhasegawa.com and www.TheBioGardeners.com

        Maui Electric Company, Ltd. has reviewed our experience, technical expertise and track record of success and has invited Citron Solar Farm to engineer; design; acquire a balance system; construct an install and maintain a photovoltaic power plant with solar tracking and eco-friendly energy to deliver 2.7 MW firm power to the Maui power grid.

      • Videos on the Future of Solar Technologies & Size of Solar Utility Companies

      • Maui Electric and Castle & Cooke Reach Agreement for Lanai Solar Electricity, October 1, 2008

      • On Lanai, let the sun shine in, The Maui News, January 9, 2009

      • PV Systems Financing



  • HEAT PUMPS (WATER HEATERS)



  • BIOMASS: BIO-ENERGY & FUELS



  • WAVES TO ENERGY TECHNOLOGY

      • OceanLinx "Oceanlinx is a leading international company in the field of wave energy conversion. The company has developed proprietary technology for extracting energy from ocean waves and converting that energy into electricity, or using it to provide desalinated potable grade water from sea water. Oceanlinx has designed and deployed wave energy systems since 1997, to remain at the leading edge of marine renewable technology development."

      • Oceanlinx to Provide Electricity from Waves for Maui, February 4, 2008

        The project aims to provide up to 2.7 megawatts from two to three floating platforms located one-half to three-quarters of a mile due north of Pauwela Point on the northeast coast of Maui.

      • Oceanlinx Hawaii LLC; Notice of Preliminary Permit Application Accepted for Filing and Soliciting Comments, Motions To Intervene, and Competing Applications, September 15, 2009. On August 21, 2009, Oceanlinx Hawaii LLC filed an application for a preliminary permit, pursuant to section 4(f) of the Federal Power Act, proposing to study the feasibility of the Oceanlinx Maui Wave Energy Project (Oceanlinx Wave Project or project), located in the Pacific Ocean about 0.6 statute miles north of Pauwela Point and adjacent lands in the County of Maui....


  • Sea Water Air Conditioning

      • Sea Water Air Conditioning [Hawaii's Energy Future]

      • SeaWater Air Conditioning (SWAC) ... takes advantage of available deep cold seawater instead of energy-intensive refrigeration systems to cool the chilled water in one or more buildings . This web page describes the Basics, Environmental Aspects, and Economic Benefits of a SWAC system. It also describes Makai's Engineering Services for Seawater Air Conditioning. Makai's experience in SWAC analysis results directly from our work with deep, cold seawater pipes...

      • Seawater-Based Air Conditioning in Honolulu's Future CBS News, May 4, 2010, by Michael Kanellos ".... Honolulu Seawater Air Conditioning LLC, the Ever-Green's local developer, will build pipes that draw seawater from four miles offshore at a depth of about 1,600 feet, said Rydaker. The water, which will be about 45 degrees Fahrenheit, will be drawn to an onshore cooling station. Heat exchangers will extract the chill in the sea water to fresh water contained in a closed-loop system. The now-chilled freshwater will then circulate through the chillers in office buildings in Honolulu. Chillers tend to keep water at 44 degrees Fahrenheit, so the cooling station will add some, but not a lot, of chill to the water...."


  • SMART GRIDS



  • STIMULUS GRANTS, TAX CREDITS & OTHER GOVERNMENT CLEAN ENERGY SUBSIDIES & INCENTIVES

      • Business Energy Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

      • Solar Energy Industries Association
          Solar Tax Policy "On October 3, 2008, the House of Representatives passed H.R. 1424, the Emergency Economic Stabilization Act of 2008 by a vote of 263-171. Soon after, President Bush signed the bill into law. The U.S. Senate passed its own version of the bill on Oct. 1, 2008. In the bill are a number of provisions supporting energy efficiency and renewable energy, including all of the solar incentives advocated by SEIA.

          This package includes an 8-year extension of the commercial and residential solar investment tax credit, completely eliminates the monetary cap for residential solar electric installations, and allows utilities and alternative minimum tax (AMT) filers to take the credit. In 2009, under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the $2,000 credit cap on solar hot water installations was eliminated. "

      • Tax Incentive Assistance Project (TIAP)

      • Federal Tax Credits for Consumer Energy Efficiency: What you need to know
        1. [Expires Dec 31, 2010, Limit: $1500 for residence AND Tax Credit: Credit Details: 30% of the cost, up to $500 per .5 kW of power capacity Expires: December 31, 2010 Details: Existing homes & new construction qualify. Must be your principal residence. Rentals and second homes do not qualify.] (For: Biomass Stoves Air Source Heat Pumps; Central Air Conditioning (CAC); Gas, Propane, or Oil Hot Water Boiler; Oil Furnace; Insulation; Roofs; Water Heaters (non-solar) Gas, Oil, Propane Water Heater: Windows & Doors)

        2. Tax Credit: 30% of cost with no upper limit Expires: December 31, 2016 Details: Existing homes & new construction qualify. Both principal residences and second homes qualify. Rentals do not qualify. (For Geothermal Heatpumps, Small Wind Turbines (Residentail), Solar Energy Systems)

        3. Tax Credit: Credit Details: 30% of the cost, up to $500 per .5 kW of power capacity Expires: December 31, 2016 Details: Existing homes & new construction qualify. Must be your principal residence. Rentals and second homes do not qualify. Fuel Cells (Residential Fuel Cell and Microturbine System)Fuel cells are an important enabling technology for the hydrogen economy and have the potential to revolutionize the way we power our nation, offering cleaner, more-efficient alternatives to the combustion of gasoline and other fossil fuels. Requirements Efficiency of at least 30% and must have a capacity of at least 0.5 kW.

      • Tax Credit: Expires Dec.31 2016 [Solar Water Heat, Photovoltaics, Wind, Fuel Cells, Geothermal Heat Pumps, Other Solar Electric Technologies; Existing homes & new construction qualify. Must be your principal residence. Rentals and second homes do not qualify.]
      • Residential Energy Efficiency Tax Credit "The federal tax credit for energy-efficient home improvements was established by the Energy Policy Act of 2005. After expiring December 31, 2007, the credit was extended and expanded by The Energy Improvement and Extension Act of 2008 (H.R. 1424: Div. B, Sec. 302) and The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 (H.R. 1: Div. B, Sec. 1121). The credit now applies to eligible equipment purchased between January 1, 2009, and December 31, 2010. In addition to extending the credit, H.R. 1424 and H.R. 1 strengthened the efficiency requirements for most equipment, extended the credit to stoves that use biomass fuel and asphalt roofs with appropriate cooling granules; raised the cap for the credit; and redesigned the way the credit is calculated...... "

      • State of Hawaii Tax Credits for Solar [Dept of Business, Economic Development and Tourism]
      • Solar Thermal (solar water heaters)
      • Solar Electric (photovoltaic or concentrating solar power)
      • Complete List of Reports & Publications

      • Obama Signs the Stimulus: What’s in Store for Clean Energy [Feb 17, 2009] ....One of the biggest wins for clean energy developers comes in the form of grants for up to 30 percent of the cost of projects started in the next two years....

        Smart Grid: The stimulus allocates $4.4 billion for “modernization of the electric grid,” which is basically installing various hardware and software to make the power grid an intelligent 2-way digital network (check out our smart grid FAQ). Expect these funds to be a boon for smart meter makers, companies developing energy management technologies, demand response program developers, and utilities, which will be able to manage the power grid more efficiently.

      • President Obama touts solar plant in Central Florida St. Petersburg Times, 10.28.09, BY ADAM C. SMITH ARCADIA -- Standing in rural Florida amid 180 acres of solar panels, President Barack Obama on Tuesday announced $3.4 billion in federal stimulus grants to modernize America's power grid and create jobs. ... Among the 100 projects receiving stimulus grants: $200 million for an FPL initiative to modernize its power grid, including transmission line improvements and more than 2 million ``smart meters'' that enable consumers to monitor and adjust their own power use and costs. ... The grants were awarded to 100 utilities and businesses which in turn will spend another $4.7 billion in private money on the so-called ``smart grid.'' The current grid system relies on century-old technology that the president said ``wastes too much energy, it costs us too much money, and it's too susceptible to outages and blackouts.''

      • The Most Important Words in the Stimulus Package for Energy Efficiency [earth2tech Feb 2009] Decoupling, a strategy that has proven successful at promoting energy efficiency in states like California, disconnects utilities’ sales from their profits, and thus encourages utilities to implement energy efficiency programs. The text in the stimulus bill doesn’t require decoupling per se in order to get funds, but ....

      • GE wants you...if you live on Maui [Read all 'wind' posts in Planetary Gear] February 11, 2009 The Maui Electric Company and General Electric are joining up to test a unique smart-grid technology on the Hawaiian island's electrical grid.



  • FUEL CELL TECHNOLOGY



  • ENERGY STORAGE TECHNOLOGY & ORGANIZATION(S)

      • Maui Seminar on Electrical Storage [Wednesday, June 16, 2010 from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at UH Maui College] ... is aimed at addressing benefits, challenges and case studies of storage technologies for renewable energy. "is an exciting step forward for the county in developing reliable alternative energy systems. “In Hawaii, we have an abundance of clean energy resources such as solar and wind power, and addressing the capacity for storing this variable energy is a critical component in harnessing these resources efficiently. This is an important opportunity for us to learn about the solutions currently available and those being developed.”
        • Report from the Seminar [June 20, 2010] ... Hawaii is a good candidate for current storage technologies ... because our electricity rates are high - about three times what he pays in New Mexico. Nevertheless, even in Hawaii it is not easy to make storage pay.... ... encouraged enough to begin thinking about a follow-up storage seminar in the islands. Attendees ranged from Maui Electric executives and a member of the Public Utilities Commission to suppliers, contractors and residents interested in renewable energy issues.

      • Energy Storage Systems [Sandia National Laboratories (SNL)] "SNL has a broad technical base of battery expertise focusing on integrated storage systems. These systems operate within varying environments and electrical conditions, and many different types of battery technologies."

      • HNU Energy and International Battery Team for Solar and Energy Storage Demonstration Project in Maui, Hawaii: Solar Array and Energy Storage System Operating in Maui [Feb 8, 2010] International Battery (www.internationalbattery.com), a U.S. manufacturer and developer of large-format lithium-ion rechargeable batteries, today announced they have recently teamed with HNU Energy (www.hnuenergy.com) to participate in a solar power generation and energy storage project in Maui, Hawaii. The project, recently put into operation, will assess the effectiveness of storing solar energy using new, more-efficient battery technology.

      • ZBB Energy Corporation ZBB Energy Corporation (NYSE AMEX: ZBB) provides distributed intelligent power management platforms that directly integrate multiple renewable and conventional onsite generation sources with rechargeable zinc bromide flow batteries and other storage technology.
        • ZBB Energy Corp secures order from NIDON Clean Energy Posted on: Tue, 23 Mar 2010 According to ZBB Energy Corp, the ZESS energy storage systems will be used as part of a new state-of-the-art elevator system that utilises power from the grid and renewable energy in a multi-family apartment in Honolulu. This system allows the elevator to be operated during emergency situations and extended power outages.



  • Electric Car Charging Station



  • ENERGY DEMAND & END-USE EFFICIENCY

      • Understanding Electric Demand

      • End-Use Efficiency Working Group - Hawai'i Clean Energy Initiative

      • Maui Electric Company
        • Residential Demand (MECO)
        • Compact Fluorescent Lights (MECO) "Maui Electric Company's Residential Compact Fluorescent Light Program is designed to help Maui, Moloka'i, and Lana'i residential customers conserve energy and save money. Switching to CFLs is a small change that can keep your home cooler, save 60% - 75% energy use and up to $28 per year per bulb..."

      • HNU Energy

        • Energy efficiency - Maui businesses take lead role in cost-cutting technology HighTechMaui, November 17, 2009 --- Maui County's leading industry is taking a leadership role in the county's energy future, helped along by one of Maui's top energy research and development operations, HNU Energy LLC.
          --- In Maui County, HNU Energy is a lighting industry pioneer in developing Super-Energy-Efficient LED direct-replacement lamps. Businesses can reduce light-related electrical consumption by 50 to 80 percent, depending upon the types of lighting being replaced.

        • Maui firm markets energy-saving light bulb 10/27/2008 --- A Maui-based renewable energy firm has joined with an international light bulb maker to create and sell a new line of energy-efficient lighting products.
          --- HNU Energy (pronounced “H-new”) of Maui is working with Marexim, a lighting manufacturer with headquarters in New Zealand. HNU Energy says it has exclusive manufacturing and distributing agreements with Marexim, which makes bulbs for home use, businesses and street lamps.

      • Grand Wailea continues to incorporate green practices Maui Weekly, July 9, 2009 The Grand Wailea, Maui County’s largest employer, is willingly incorporating measures to reduce water consumption and electricity use at their South Maui property.... The Grand Wailea has also committed to water sustainability by reducing its landscaping irrigation, which saves nearly four million gallons of water per month. Its irrigation systems are also being retrofitted to low-flow sprinkler or super-efficient drip irrigation, and even the laundry system is doing its part...
        Source: GRAND WAILEA INCORPORATES ENERGY EFFICIENT AND WATER CONSERVATION MEASURES TO PROMOTE SUSTAINABILITY [Press Release 22 June 2009]

      • HC&S History - Drip Irrigation "if it were not for drip, HC&S might have folded some years ago." During an ordinary year at HC&S, drip is responsible for efficient water and fertilizer use, which has led to higher yields and record production. In periods of drought, drip irrigation keeps sugar cane alive and HC&S in business.

      • Westin Maui: Green Initiatives & Energy Savings



  • MAUI's / HAWAII'S ENERGY CONSULTANTS & SYSTEMS DESIGNERS:

      • NIDON Clean Energy (Honolulu) Advocates a comprehensive renewable energy strategy with these recommended steps:
        1. reduce energy use from exterior or highbay lights by between 50 to 60% by replacing High Pressure Sodium or Metal Halide fixtures with induction lights from US Lighting Tech.
        2. determine a best renewable energy solution of photovoltaic and/or Urban Green Energy wind turbines designed for specific needs.
        3. provide clean, firm power combined with flow battery energy storagefrom ZBB Energy.
        4. have centralized secure monitoring, command, control, and communications across energy generation, distribution, and use via Bridgegate.

      • Energy Consulting Associates, LLC (William Bennett, Kihei) "ECA was created to help businesses and homeowners save energy. We do energy surveys to find ways to improve energy efficiency and use energy monitoring, project management, and training to empower the customer to significantly reduce energy usage."
        • Energy Consulting Associates, LLC (Kihei) 1787 Kai Maka St.
          Kihei, HI 96753
          808-283-0404
          Services include solar system monitoring, energy audits, system design, site and shade evaluation, and energy efficiency evaluations for solar technologies.

      • John Bendon: Green Building Consultant on Maui [Kean Properties LLC]



  • BEYOND MAUI

      • American Solar Energy Society (ASES) "Established in 1954, the nonprofit American Solar Energy Society (ASES) is the nation's leading association of solar professionals & advocates. Our mission is to inspire an era of energy innovation and speed the transition to a sustainable energy economy. We advance education, research and policy."

        "The ASES National Solar Tour is the largest grassroots solar event in history. The tour offers participants the opportunity to tour homes and buildings to see how neighbors are using solar energy, energy efficiency, and other sustainable technologies to reduce their monthly utility bills and help tackle climate change."

      • Cooler Planet FIND A SOLAR PANELPROFESSIONAL NOW!Search our solar directory for pros in your area: Residential Commercial by Zip Code

      • National Renewable Energy Laboratory NREL is the only federal laboratory dedicated to the research, development, commercialization and deployment of renewable energy and energy efficiency technologies. 
        	1617 Cole Blvd.
	Golden, CO 80401-3305
	Main Phone Number
	(303) 275-3000
         Energy Analysis: News & News Archives

      • Transatlantic Climate Bridge ... initiative to foster transatlantic cooperation and partnerships between Germany, the US and Canada on climate and energy policies - at the local, the state and the federal level. A joint commitment to invest in newer, cleaner sources of energy can create new jobs and world-class industries, clean up the environment and protect the climate, improve standards of living and enhance global security.

      • YouTube Video of Renewable Energy Research at University of Kassel/ Germany

      • Net Metering in other States (California)
        • Meter, Meter on the Wall: Giving & Taking from a Smarter Grid By Andrew Burger | December 7th, 2007

        • Net Energy Metering "Net energy metering is a special billing arrangement for customers with renewable energy systems, such as solar electricity systems, that permits customers to get credit for the full retail value of the electricity their system generates. Under net energy metering, the customer's electric meter keeps track of how much excess electricity is generated ... and sent back into the electric utility grid, and how much electricity is consumed... Over a 12 month period, the customer has to pay only for the net amount of electricity they use ... over-and-above the amount of electricity generated by their ... system (in addition to monthly customer transmission, distribution, and meter service charges they incur)."

        • California Solar Initiative [www.gosolarcalifornia.ca.gov/] [California's Public Utilities Commission and Energy Commission] Since 1998, rebates for small solar energy systems were managed under the Emerging Renewables Program (ERP) at the California Energy Commission. In 2001, a second program that covered rebates for larger systems--over 30 kW--was assigned to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) through the Self-Generation Incentive Program (SGIP).
          [...] In January 2007, the State of California launched Go Solar California, which included two new solar incentive programs,... The new framework also included a major shift ... away from a system that funded solar incentives based only on nameplate capacity and towards one where incentive levels are based on performance factors such as installation angle, tilt, and location.

        • SDGE (San Diego)

        • PG&E (California)

      • Hawai'i Natural Energy Institute [School of Ocean & Earth Science & Technology, University of Hawaii at Manoa]

      • "State accepting bids for undersea cable," Maui Weekly 5 Nov 2009, p.6 “Hawai‘i has become the test center for how you integrate large amounts of wind and sun,”
        ....if communities on Maui, Lana‘i and Moloka‘i will agree to feed their energy to Honolulu.

      • Huge wind power R&D starts at NREL [Power & Energy, by Dean Anderson | 11/04/09] "....A huge step in the right direction has been taken by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) at its National Wind Technology Center (NWTC) in Colorado, where, alongside Siemens Energy, the organization "flipped the switch" starting the blades on a Siemens 2.3 megawatt wind turbine installed as part of a cooperative research and development agreement (CRADA) for testing turbine aerodynamics, structure and reliability..."

      • The U.S. Green Building Council ... is a 501(c)(3) non-profit community of leaders working to make green buildings available to everyone within a generation.
      • LEED Professional Credentials (Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design)
      • Green Building Certification Institute

      • Green Inc. Column: Looking at Europe’s Green Ways New York Times, by Kate GALBRAITH Published: May 24, 2009

      • Siemens Wind Power [www.usa.siemens.com/en/windpower/]



  • OTHER LINKS, RESOURCES or CLIPPINGS




Last Updated: June 2010