Homepage Hawaii 39A PDF Form

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What is the purpose of the Hawaii 39A form?

    The Hawaii 39A form is a Net Energy Metering Agreement specifically designed for customer-generators who wish to interconnect their renewable energy generating facilities, such as solar, wind, or hydro systems, with the electric grid. This agreement outlines the responsibilities of both the customer-generator and the electric company, ensuring compliance with safety standards and regulatory requirements.

  2. Who qualifies as a customer-generator under this agreement?

    A customer-generator is typically an individual or entity that owns or operates a renewable energy generating facility with a capacity of 10 kW or less. The facility must be designed to generate electricity for the customer's own use and may also supply excess energy back to the electric grid. Eligibility is subject to compliance with the electric company's specific rules and regulations.

  3. What information is required to complete the form?

    The form requires detailed information about the applicant, including the customer-generator's name, mailing address, electric service account number, and contact information. Additionally, specifics about the generating facility, such as its type, rated capacity, and equipment details, must be provided. The form also necessitates certification from a licensed electrical contractor to ensure compliance with safety standards.

  4. What are the responsibilities of the customer-generator regarding permits and licenses?

    The customer-generator is responsible for obtaining all necessary permits and licenses for the construction and operation of their generating facility. This includes ensuring that the facility meets local, state, and federal regulations. Failure to secure the required permits may lead to complications in the interconnection process or potential legal issues.

  5. How does billing work under the Net Energy Metering Agreement?

    Billing under this agreement is based on the net energy consumption of the customer-generator. If the energy produced by the generating facility exceeds the energy consumed from the electric company, the customer-generator will not be billed for the excess energy. Instead, they may receive credits that can be applied to future bills. Conversely, if the energy consumed exceeds what is produced, the customer-generator will be billed for the excess based on the applicable rate schedule.

  6. What happens if there are changes to the generating facility?

    Any proposed material changes to the generating facility, such as a change in ownership or an increase in capacity, must be communicated to the electric company with a 30-day advance notice. If the facility changes ownership, the new owner may be required to complete a new Net Energy Metering Agreement to ensure compliance with the current regulations and requirements.

Steps to Writing Hawaii 39A

Completing the Hawaii 39A form requires careful attention to detail. Each section must be filled out accurately to ensure compliance with the requirements for net energy metering. Follow these steps to complete the form correctly.

  1. Applicant Information: Fill in the Customer-Generator's name, mailing address, city, state, zip code, and both daytime and evening/cell phone numbers. If the generating facility location is different, provide that information along with the tax map key. Include the electric service account number.
  2. Owner Information: If the owner of the generating facility is different from the Customer-Generator, provide the owner's name, mailing address, city, state, zip code, and both daytime and evening/cell phone numbers.
  3. Operator Information: If the operator of the generating facility is different from the Customer-Generator, fill in the operator's name, mailing address, city, state, zip code, and both daytime and evening/cell phone numbers.
  4. Generating Facility Information: Indicate the rated generator capacity in kW for the type of energy source (solar, wind, biomass, hydro, or hybrid). Provide the generator/inverter make and model, and the rated capacity in kWh. Ensure that the total rated capacity does not exceed 10 kW. Attach a specification sheet if available.
  5. Building Permit: Enter the building permit number, certificate of completion, or notice of electrical inspection.
  6. Self-Excited System: Answer whether the system is self-excited with potential to island by marking "Yes" or "No." Submit a single line diagram if required.
  7. Certification: Have a licensed electrical contractor sign and date the certification section. Include the license holder's printed name and Hawaii license number, along with their mailing address, city, zip code, and daytime phone number.
  8. Installation Details: Specify the location of the lockable disconnect device. Confirm if it is adjacent to the meter and provide a description if it is not.
  9. Notice of Changes: Acknowledge that the Customer-Generator must provide a 30-day written notice for any material changes to the generating facility.
  10. Permits and Licenses: Confirm that the Customer-Generator will obtain all necessary permits and licenses for the facility's construction and operation.
  11. Metering Information: Understand that the Company will supply and maintain the necessary meters and that the Customer-Generator must provide a suitable location for them.
  12. Indemnification Clause: Review the indemnification section to understand the responsibilities and liabilities of both parties.
  13. Continuity of Service: Acknowledge the conditions under which the Company may require the generating facility to be temporarily disconnected.
  14. Safety Considerations: Be aware that the Company can disconnect the facility if it poses a danger to persons or property.
  15. Additional Information: Note that the Company may request further information if necessary.
  16. Term of Agreement: Understand that the agreement is effective upon execution and can be terminated by either party at any time.
  17. Net Energy Metering and Billing: Familiarize yourself with how net energy metering and billing will be handled according to the Company’s rules.

Misconceptions

Understanding the Hawaii 39A form can be challenging, and there are several misconceptions about it. Here are ten common misunderstandings and clarifications:

  1. It’s only for solar energy systems. The Hawaii 39A form applies to various generating facilities, including wind, biomass, and hydro systems, not just solar.
  2. You don’t need a licensed contractor. A licensed electrical contractor must certify that the generating system meets all safety and performance standards.
  3. All generating facilities can exceed 10 kW. The form specifically states that the total rated capacity must not exceed 10 kW.
  4. You can change the system without notifying the company. Any material changes, such as ownership or capacity increases, require a 30-day written notice to the company.
  5. The company provides all equipment needed. While the company supplies and maintains meters, the customer-generator is responsible for providing suitable locations and associated equipment.
  6. Indemnification only protects the company. Both parties have indemnification obligations, protecting each other from certain liabilities.
  7. Once signed, the agreement can’t be terminated. The customer-generator can terminate the agreement at any time, and the company can do so if the terms are not met.
  8. Net metering means you’ll never pay for electricity. If the generating facility produces less energy than supplied by the company, the customer-generator will be billed for the excess energy.
  9. You can ignore safety requirements. The form outlines strict safety standards that must be followed to ensure the safety of the generating facility and the electric system.
  10. All information is optional. Providing accurate information is crucial for compliance and proper billing, and certain details are mandatory.