Isles could reap benefits in ’16 from solar-and-battery systems

Solar systems connected to batteries will be cost-effective for residents in Hawaii as soon as 2016, according to a study released Tuesday.

"The Economics of Load Defection," conducted by Boulder, Colo.-based Rocky Mountain Institute, showed that in 2016 it would be more cost-effective for isle residents to own solar systems connected to batteries rather than using solar-only systems or depending solely on the electric grid to power households.

"There are a few places where customers are investing in these solar-plus-battery systems … displacing pricier grid-purchased electricity with cheaper power produced with on-site solar-plus-battery systems," the study said. "Most notably, Hawaii — where retail electricity prices are the highest of any U.S. state — has seen a flurry of customers investing in these systems."

The Rocky Mountain Institute evaluated the cost-effectiveness of grid dependence, solar use and solar connected to batteries for customers in Westches­ter, N.Y.; Louisville, Ky.; San Antonio; Los Angeles; and Hono­lulu.