Donated inverters boost renewable energy education at Hawaiʻi CC | University of Hawaiʻi System News

Oct 27, 2024

The Hawaiʻi Solar Energy Association calls Hawaiʻi an “ideal solar market,” which employs more than 2,300 people and has invested more than $4.8 billion in solar and storage through the second quarter of 2024. To enhance renewable energy education, equipment wholesaler Inter-Island Solar Supply donated thousands of dollars worth of inverters to Hawaiʻi Community College in October.

“An inverter is one of the most important pieces of equipment in a solar energy system. It’s a device that converts direct current (DC) electricity, which is what a solar panel generates, to alternating current (AC) electricity, which the electrical grid uses,” according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

The donation will help familiarize students in the Electrical Installation and Maintenance Technology (EIMT) program with real-world equipment commonly installed in the clean energy industry around the state.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generous donation from Inter-Island Solar Supply to our program,” said EIMT faculty member Renee Dela Cruz. “This contribution enhances our curriculum and provides our students hands-on experience in cutting-edge renewable energy technologies. By integrating solar inverter training into our program, we are equipping our students with essential skills that are increasingly in-demand in today’s job market.”

The EIMT program prepares students for employment with electrical appliance shops, utility companies, and electrical construction and maintenance companies.

“The Hawaiʻi Community College Electrical Installation and Maintenance Technology program was a key stepping stone in advancing my career,” said Dason Fujimoto, Inter-Island Solar Supply’s IT systems project manager. “I’m excited to have the opportunity to work with Inter-Island Solar Supply to give back to this program and help foster the next generation of industry leaders.”

For more, go to Hawaiʻi CC.