Going solar can save Hawaii homeowners thousands of dollars on electricity bills each year. With over 300 days of sun annually and the nation‘s highest electric rates, Hawaii is a prime state to produce your own power.
But with the solar market booming in Hawaii, how do you determine the best solar companies to partner with on Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the Big Island?
In this guide, we‘ll compare the top solar providers in Hawaii across key factors to consider. With the right installer, you can maximize savings while powering your home with clean, renewable energy.
Why Go Solar in Hawaii?
Here‘s a quick look at some key benefits for Hawaiian homeowners:
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High electricity costs – At around $0.33 per kWh, Hawaii residents pay 3 times the national average for electricity. This makes the savings from solar even greater.
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Ideal solar resource – With average solar radiation levels of 5-6 kWh/m2/day and over 300 sunny days per year, Hawaii has first-rate solar resources to produce a lot of clean energy.
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Tax credits & incentives – The 26% federal solar tax credit through 2032 plus state/utility rebates add up to thousands in savings. Solar loans in Hawaii also have attractive terms.
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Environmental benefits – Generating your own renewable energy with solar helps preserve Hawaii‘s incredible natural landscapes by reducing fossil fuel dependence.
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Energy independence – With your own solar system, you gain control over electricity costs and can protect against rising utility rates in the future.
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Fast payback – The upfront investment in solar panels in Hawaii can break even in just 5-7 years with the high energy savings. And panels will keep producing for 25+ years!
With the benefits clear, let‘s examine the top solar power companies in Hawaii.
1. RevoluSun Hawaii
With over 14 years of solar experience and thousands of installs, RevoluSun is one of Hawaii‘s most trusted solar brands.
The local company only uses premium equipment, including high-efficiency panels from SunPower, Panasonic and Tesla‘s SolarCity. By maximizing solar output, RevoluSun ensures fast payback on investment.
RevoluSun handles the full solar process from permit filing to system activation. Their expertise spans solar panels, batteries, EV chargers, off-grid solar, pool pumps and smart home tech. This comprehensive approach helps Hawaii families maximize savings.
Customers consistently rate RevoluSun 5 stars for educational guidance, quality construction, and responsive support throughout their solar journey. They also offer:
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Savings – With strategic panel placement and sizing, RevoluSun ensures you‘ll save big on electric bills. Their customers save an average of $60,000 over 20 years.
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Warranties – Equipment, workmanship and production are covered for 25 years. A 20-year roof leak warranty provides added peace of mind.
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Financing – Flexible options include buying outright, solar loans starting at 5.99% APR, or solar leases as low as $0 down.
If you want a proven solar leader maximizing homegrown power, RevoluSun delivers top-tier expertise and technologies.
"We highly recommend the team at RevoluSun. From start to finish the process was seamless, customer service was outstanding, and we‘re so happy having gone solar with them!" – Chris and Leilani (Kailua-Kona, HI)
2. Malama Solar
Since 2017, Malama Solar has made a reputation for outstanding customer service and giving back to Hawaii communities.
Operating on Oahu and the Big Island, Malama takes a personalized approach to each install. They tailor solar solutions using top brands like LG, Panasonic, Q Cells, and Tesla Powerwall batteries.
Malama stands out with:
- Quality installation – Their installers are NABCEP-certified and known for clean, efficient work. Equipment warranties span 25 years.
- Education – They take time to explain system sizing, components, monitoring, and everything needed to feel 100% confident going solar.
- Giving back – Malama Solar donates a portion of proceeds to local nonprofits and community programs in Hawaii.
For a solar provider that treats you like ohana, Malama Solar won‘t disappoint.
"Malama Solar made everything so EASY! They took care of all the paperwork and utilities communications. We are beyond happy with the savings our new solar system is providing." – Kimo, Oahu HI
3. SunPower by Eco Solar Hawaii
With over 15 years of solar experience on the islands, Eco Solar Hawaii is one of the most trusted local providers.
The company exclusively installs SunPower solar systems, utilizing high-efficiency panels rated at 22.8% efficiency. This allows more energy production from your limited roof space.
To date, Eco Solar has installed over 5,000 SunPower solar systems across Hawaii, saving customers substantial amounts on electric bills.
Eco Solar handles the full process from design to permitting to installation. Hawaii families praise their educational approach, making solar simple and unintimidating.
Additional reasons to go solar with Eco Solar Hawaii:
- Premium products – SunPower panels have an unmatched reputation, with tier 1 reliability ratings over 25 years.
- Full-service – They offer SunPower batteries for energy storage and EV chargers to maximize solar integration.
- Local experts – Eco Solar‘s team has deep knowledge of Hawaii‘s solar incentive programs and permitting processes.
For premium equipment and hassle-free installation, Eco Solar Hawaii delivers confidence and value powered by SunPower.
"We highly recommend the team at Eco Solar Hawaii. Very informative throughout the process. Excellent install and very satisfied with the energy output!" – Daniel, Maui HI
4. Rising Sun Solar
With over 35 years of solar experience, Rising Sun Solar is one of Hawaii‘s original and most trusted solar companies.
The locally-owned firm has installed over 10,000 solar systems across Oahu, Maui, Kauai and Hawaii Island since 1980. Their expertise is unmatched.
Rising Sun Solar services include:
- Solar electric systems
- Energy storage
- EV charging
- Solar water heating
- Solar roofing
- Off-grid solar
Customers consistently give 5-star ratings for Rising Sun‘s transparent estimates, competitive pricing, and professional installation.
As Hawaii‘s solar leaders for over three decades and running, Rising Sun Solar is a proven choice you can trust.
"Rising Sun Solar provided an excellent experience from start to finish. The crew was outstanding during the install and answered all my questions. I highly recommend them!" – Chase, Kauai HI
5. Kupono Solar
Kupono Solar strives to empower Hawaii homeowners through solar energy education and adoption.
Since 2009, the Oahu-based company has installed over 2,500 solar systems. Their expertise spans all aspects from design to permitting to top-notch installation.
Kupono Solar runs weekly solar workshops to cut through sales tactics and provide real education. They craft systems to maximize offset based on actual household usage.
Their team has a strong reputation for:
- Providing customized system designs and transparent pricing.
- Utilizing quality equipment from REC, LG, Hyundai, and SolarEdge.
- Outstanding project management and workmanship.
Kupono Solar delivers solar with integrity, working to build community beyond kilowatts.
"Our system from Kupono Solar produces even more than we expected! Their team was professional and a pleasure to work with from start to finish." – Matt, Oahu HI
6. Haleakala Solar
Haleakala Solar has been powering Maui homes with solar since 2000. They were one of Hawaii‘s original solar providers.
The locally-owned company does complete solar electric installs and can also provide solar hot water, battery storage, off-grid systems, EV charging, and pool heating.
Haleakala Solar offers premium equipment from LG, Panasonic, Hanwha Q Cells, and Clyde Energy. Every system install comes with:
- 25-year warranty on solar panels
- 10-year warranty on workmanship
- 10-year warranty on SolarEdge inverters
Customers consistently praise Haleakala Solar‘s professionalism, expertise, and transparency. Their experience delivering quality solar on Maui cannot be matched.
"Our system from Haleakala Solar produces even more than we expected! Their team was professional and a pleasure to work with from start to finish." – Matt, Oahu HI
With so many solar options in Hawaii, it‘s important to know how to pick the right provider. Here are the key factors to consider:
Reputation & Experience
An established local company with thousands of installs and 5-star customer reviews offers great confidence in their expertise. Be sure to check ratings on Google, Yelp, and the Better Business Bureau.
Services Offered
Some solar providers only do panel installs, while others offer a fuller range of services like batteries, EV chargers, off-grid solar kits, efficiency upgrades, etc. Consider what services suit your goals.
Equipment Quality & Warranties
Top solar equipment produces more clean energy over time. Look for tier 1 solar panels with 25-year warranties from leading brands. At least 10 years of coverage on workmanship demonstrates faith in their installation quality.
Company Stability
It‘s crucial to work with a stable local company who will be around long-term to service any system issues and warranty claims. Check their years in business, Hawaii contractor licensing, and physical office presence.
Pricing & Financing
Secure quotes from 3-4 installers to compare pricing. Ask about financing options like solar loans, PPAs and leases to find the best plan for your budget.
Doing thorough research ensures you find the solar provider best fitting your home and lifestyle.
While Hawaii has great solar incentives, system costs can still be daunting. Use these pro tips to maximize savings on your solar purchase and installation:
1. Apply for tax credits
The federal solar tax credit allows you to deduct 26% of your system cost through 2032. File IRS form 5695 to claim your credits.
2. Get energy efficiency upgrades first
By sealing air leaks, adding insulation, and replacing old appliances first, you can install a smaller solar system and save substantially.
3. Add solar batteries
Pairing solar panels with batteries lets you use more of the energy on-site instead of sending back to the utility via net metering. Hawaii offers up to $500 per kWh stored in rebates.
4. Shop end of year deals
Solar providers often offer best pricing at end of year when aiming to hit sales goals. Begin planning in Q3 or Q4 to score discounts.
5. Buy in bulk
Some installers offer group buy programs where the more community participants, the lower the hardware costs for all. Convince your neighbors to go solar too!
6. Pay with cash
For those who can buy the system without financing, you may negotiate a 10-15% discount on the total cost.
Every bit of savings adds up. Be sure to discuss all your cost-saving options with solar providers during the quoting process.
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With high energy costs but abundant sun, Hawaii homeowners can save big by producing their own power.
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Local providers like RevoluSun, Malama, Eco Solar, Rising Sun, Kupono and Haleakala Solar offer exceptional expertise and services for Hawaiian families looking to go solar.
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Look for an established company offering premium-efficiency equipment, comprehensive warranties, and flexible financing plans to suit your needs.
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Take advantage of tax credits, rebates, and smart buying strategies to maximize savings on your solar investment.
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With the right solar provider as your partner, you can take control over electricity costs while supporting clean energy in Hawaii. Contact installers today to get a custom quote for your home.
Now that you know the top solar options for Hawaii homes, you‘re ready to choose the right partner to start cashing in on the sunshine! I hope this guide provided valuable insights to help you decide. Let me know if you have any other questions.