Solar Water Heaters In Hawaii

Hawaii becomes the first state requiring energy-saving solar water heaters installed in all new homes starting in 2010. The bill which took affect January 1st prohibits issuing building permits for single-family homes that do not have solar water heaters. The move to force solar heating is a big step for a state that relies on imported fossil fuels for 90% of its energy supply.

Conventional water heaters are typically the largest electricity consumer in the average household, gobbling up nearly 40% of consumption. This measure was first introduced five years ago when a barrel of oil was much less, and since then, the price has more than tripled. Lawmakers described a government requirement for solar water heaters as a way to protect the environment, reduce Hawaii’s heavy reliance on foreign energy sources, and save money.

Solar water heaters typically cost home buyers about $5,000 extra, but island residents will save thousands of dollars on their electricity bills over the life of their home. Solar water heaters reduce residents’ electricity costs between 30 percent and 35 percent – up to $150 per month for a family of four on Kauai. With those kind of savings, the initial expense is usually paid off in three to four years.