How Hawaii Renters Can Benefit from Solar Power Credits

Hawaii boasts some of the nation’s highest electricity prices, making energy savings crucial for renters. In recent years, solar power and Hawaii's solar credit programs have created new opportunities for tenants to reduce their electricity bills even if they do not directly own solar panels. This guide explains how solar power credits work for Hawaii renters, your rights under state law, and what resources are available.

Understanding Solar Power Credits in Hawaii

Solar power credits, also called "Net Energy Metering" (NEM) credits, allow tenants to benefit from shared or landlord-owned solar panel systems. Through programs like Hawaii's Community-Based Renewable Energy (CBRE), renters can subscribe to a solar project and receive monthly credits on their electricity bills, even if they don’t have panels on their roof.

Can Renters Access Solar Credits?

Yes—many rental properties in Hawaii participate in solar credit programs, either directly through the landlord or by allowing tenants to sign up for nearby community solar projects. Participation may depend on your lease and utility setup.

• Check your lease to see if landlord-installed solar impacts your utility billing.
• With "Community Solar," renters can subscribe to a shared solar farm and receive a proportional credit on their Hawaiian Electric bill.
• If you pay utilities through your landlord or a third-party, ask if and how solar credits are shared with tenants.

Your Rights and Protections as a Renter

Under the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code, tenants have the right to a clear and accurate accounting of all utility charges, including solar credits or charges, whenever utilities are not paid directly to the utility company.^[1]

• Landlords must disclose in writing if utilities are submetered or billed back.
• Tenants cannot be charged more than the actual cost paid by the landlord to the utility company.
• If your lease mentions solar power, you are entitled to understand how the credits affect your bills.

Sample Lease Clauses and Utility Addendums

Some Hawaii landlords include clauses specifying how solar savings or credits are split. Always review and request clarification in writing. For any disputes, keep utility statements and lease correspondence for your records.

Relevant Official Forms for Renters

• Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form (DCCA/OCP)
  • Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form
  • When to use: If your landlord does not properly credit solar savings or utility overcharges, you can use this form to file an official complaint with the Office of Consumer Protection.
  • How to use: Download the form, fill out all sections describing your situation, attach copies of your lease and utility bills showing the issue, and submit to the address provided on the website.
• Request for Information Letter
  • Sample Letter Template – Request for Utility Information
  • When to use: If you’re unsure how utility costs or solar credits are billed to you, use this template to formally request details from your landlord.
  • How to use: Customize the letter with your address and specific questions. Send to your landlord and keep a copy for your records.

What is Hawaii’s Residential Landlord-Tenant Information Center?

The Residential Landlord-Tenant Information Center is the state’s official resource and tribunal for handling rental housing disputes, including utility billing concerns.^[2] You can contact them for guidance, information on your rights, or to seek mediation.

Legislation Protecting Hawaii Renters

The main law is the Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS Chapter 521). This legislation requires fair utility billing, transparency, and provides a pathway to resolve disputes about utilities and services.

What Should Hawaii Renters Do If There Are Issues with Solar Credits?

• Document your bills: Keep all statements showing actual charges and solar credits.
• Ask questions promptly: Use the official "Request for Information" template if needed.
• Contact the Information Center: For unresolved disputes, file a complaint and consider mediation.

If you follow these steps, you can better protect your right to accurate billing and maximize any savings from Hawaii’s solar credit programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can my landlord keep all the solar credits?
   No. If your lease says electricity costs are your responsibility, the landlord must not charge you more than what they actually pay, including any solar savings. Ask for documentation if unsure.
2. How do I sign up for Community Solar as a renter?
   Visit the official Hawaii Community Solar Program to find eligible projects and enrollment details. Ask your landlord if building rules allow participation.
3. What do I do if I suspect I'm being overcharged for electricity?
   Collect your utility bills and lease, use the "Request for Information" letter to ask your landlord for billing details, and if needed, submit a Landlord-Tenant Complaint Form to the Office of Consumer Protection.
4. Are utilities included in my rent?
   Check your lease agreement. If utilities are listed as "included," you should not be billed separately. If not, ask for a breakdown if charges seem high.
5. Where do I get official help about rental issues in Hawaii?
   Start with the Residential Landlord-Tenant Information Center for legal information or dispute assistance.

Key Takeaways for Hawaii Renters

• Solar power credits are available to renters if offered by landlords or via community solar projects.
• Hawaii law requires accurate and fair utility billing, including transparency about solar credits.
• If you run into issues or need clarification, official complaint forms and support centers are available to help.

Understanding your rights and options can help you save on bills and resolve disputes smoothly.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Landlord-Tenant Information Center – Official state guidance, complaints, and mediation
• Landlord-Tenant Forms & Templates – Sample letters and complaint forms
• Hawaii Community Solar Program – Learn more and enroll in community solar projects
• Hawaii Residential Landlord-Tenant Code (HRS Chapter 521) – Full tenant/landlord rights documentation

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1. Hawaii Revised Statutes Chapter 521 – Residential Landlord-Tenant Code
2. Residential Landlord-Tenant Information Center (Hawaii Department of Commerce & Consumer Affairs)

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