Navigating HECO’s New Solar Programs: A Comprehensive Guide

#### The Benefits of Switching to SDE Switching from CGS to SDE can save you money and help you get the most from your solar investment. With SDE you earn a credit of about $0.13 per kilowatt‑hour (kWh) for excess energy you send back to HECO. Unlike the old CGS program, unused credits roll over to the next billing cycle, so you don’t lose the value of your surplus energy. For example, if you generate 1,000 kWh in a month and use only 500 kWh, you can be credited for the energy you buy from HECO up to your export amount. In the same scenario, SDE credits at $0.13/kWh are higher than the $0.10 rate under CGS+. #### Understanding Time of Use (TOU) – Shift and Save HECO’s optional Time of Use (TOU) program, marketed as "Shift and Save," divides each day into three price tiers: 1. 9 AM – 5 PM: lowest rate (around $0.1742 per kWh) 2. 5 PM – 9 PM: highest rate (around $0.5226 per kWh) 3. 9 PM – 9 AM: mid‑range rate (around $0.3484 per kWh) If your lifestyle allows you to run appliances during the lowest‑priced hours, TOU can work in your favor. However, many homeowners find it easier to opt out of TOU because the high evening rates can quickly erase your savings if you’re home during that time. #### New Customers: What You Need to Know New photovoltaic (PV) customers are automatically enrolled in one of the new programs—typically SDE because it offers the best return. You’ll also be enrolled in the TOU program by default, but you can opt out. Make sure you take the time to decide if TOU fits your usage patterns before you stay enrolled. #### Final Considerations Switching to SDE from CGS or CGS Plus generally offers more flexibility and better financial incentives. Whether to participate in TOU depends on your home’s energy schedule. For personalized advice, reach out to your project developer or contact HECO directly.