Powering Mauna Luan's
Energy Future
A transformative solar canopy and battery storage project for our 434-unit community. Zero upfront cost. $44/month savings per unit from Day 1. We need your consent to make it happen.
Solar Canopy with
Battery Storage
The proposed project installs a 708 kW solar canopy system across the Mauna Luan parking structure, paired with battery storage for energy resilience. This system will generate clean energy to offset our community's electricity costs while providing covered parking and protection from the elements.
708 kW Solar Array
High-efficiency panels covering parking areas
Battery Storage
Energy storage for resilience and peak shaving
Covered Parking
Weather protection as an added benefit
Clean Energy
Reduce carbon footprint for our community
Total Project Cost
~$2M
Zero cost to owners
Real Savings, Real Numbers
This project delivers immediate and long-term financial benefits to every unit owner at Mauna Luan, with zero upfront investment required.
Annual Energy Savings
ITC Cash Back (Tax Credit)
25-Year Total Savings
Why Ownership Beats a PPA
| Feature | Ownership (C-PACER/GEMS) | PPA (Lease) |
|---|---|---|
| Upfront Cost | $0 | $0 |
| Monthly Savings (Day 1) | $44/unit | $15-20/unit |
| ITC Tax Credit ($600-800K) | Yes, cash back to AOAO | No, goes to developer |
| 25-Year Value | $14-15M | $10-11M |
| System Ownership | AOAO owns the system | Developer owns |
| Post-Contract Value | Free energy for life | Must renegotiate or remove |
| Maintenance Control | AOAO controls | Developer controls |
* Ownership through C-PACER or GEMS financing delivers approximately $3.5M more in value over 25 years compared to a Power Purchase Agreement.
Zero-Down Financing
Both financing options require zero upfront cost. The loan is repaid through energy savings, meaning the project pays for itself from Day 1.
C-PACER
Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy + Resilience
Authorized under Hawaii HRS Chapter 196 (Act 41, 2024). Obligation attaches to common elements, not individual units.
GEMS
Green Energy Money Saver Program
Lower rate and simpler structure. Repaid through HECO utility bill. No lien on property. Recommended path for Mauna Luan.
ITC Direct Pay: $600,000 - $800,000 Cash Back
Because the AOAO is a tax-exempt entity, we qualify for ITC Direct Pay under the Inflation Reduction Act. This means 30-40% of the project cost comes back as a direct cash payment from the IRS. This benefit is only available if the AOAO owns the system. Under a PPA, the developer keeps this credit.
Key Deadlines
To lock in the 2026 ITC rates and maximize our tax credit, we must act before the federal Safe Harbor deadline.
Contractor Presentations
ProVision Solar and Structural Solar present final scope and pricing to the Board.
Owner Consent Campaign
Collect 217 written consents from unit owners (50% of 434 units) as required by HRS 514B-105(f).
Safe Harbor Deadline
5% deposit must be placed to lock in 2026 ITC rates under the Inflation Reduction Act.
Construction & Installation
Solar canopy and battery storage installation across the parking structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about the solar project and the consent process.
Your Consent Matters
We need 217 owner consents to move forward. Every signature brings Mauna Luan closer to a cleaner, more affordable energy future.
Takes less than 2 minutes. You'll need your verification code from the mailer.