Hawaii expands customer grid supply capacity (adding 20 MW)

The Hawaii Public Utilities Commission (PUC) made a decision to expand capacity of its customer grid supply CGS program to add 20 MW of capacity — an estimated 2,800 rooftop solar systems. The CGS program provides utility customers a PUC-approved credit for any surplus electricity their solar installations export to the grid.

Sunetric, a wholly-owned subsidiary of RGS Energy, is says its ready to serve this increase.

“We applaud the recent decision of the PUC,” said Darren Jennings, vice president of Sunetric. “This move greatly enhances our opportunities for growth in this market, including our plans to expand our product offerings to include solar hot water, solar air conditioning, and storage solutions for residential and commercial customers.”

Over the past year, several solar companies exited Hawaii primarily due to the capping of net metering. However, Sunetric has expanded its sales, marketing and construction teams in the state. During 2016 and 2017, RGS Energy raised net proceeds of $32.6 million in the capital markets positioning the company to pursue opportunities in the state. Sunetric designs and installs photovoltaic systems for homes, businesses, and federal and military organizations. Sunetric provides turnkey solar solutions, from design, construction planning, and customer financing assistance to installation, utility interconnection and warranty.

Hawaii has plans to be 100 percent renewable energy by 2045.

— Solar Builder magazine

[source: http://solarbuildermag.com/news/hawaii-expands-customer-grid-supply-capacity-adding-20-mw/]