Solar Panels Cost 3.2k-16k in Kaiminani CDP, HI | October, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $3.2k-$16k in Kaiminani CDP, HI | October, 2024

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How much do solar panels cost in Kaiminani CDP, HI in 2024?

Going solar costs, on average, $4.68 per watt in the month of October, 2024 in Kaiminani CDP, HI.

It will cost you $4,680, on average, for every 1000 watts (1 kW) of capacity that your solar panels have. After receiving the 30% federal tax credit, you can expect to spend around $16,380, in Kaiminani CDP, for a 5 kW panel install. It's important to realize that a bigger system might be needed to cover your energy consumption.

On the left-hand side, pick your county to access information on the average roof size and the average maximum capacity for solar panel systems on homes within your area. Displayed below is a summary of the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county.

Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Kaiminani CDP: $16,380US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Kaiminani CDP: 7 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Kaiminani CDP: $25,502US Average: $15,784

Solar Potential in Kaiminani CDP

Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in
Kaiminani CDP.

Roof size 1,180sq. ft.
Capacity 16.5kW DC
Electricity 21.1kkWh AC per yr.

Electricity Costs in Kaiminani CDP, HI & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing

For Kaiminani CDP energy consumers, the standard monthly kWh usage is 461, with an average electric bill of $203.76. Be mindful that this figure includes data from apartments and other smaller homes with reduced energy consumption.

The electricity rate per kWh in Kaiminani CDP, HI for October 2024 averages 44.19¢.

If you’re an average energy user in Kaiminani CDP you must have a 4 kW or larger sized system to cover your entire energy demands. Currently, a 4 kW solar panel installation will cost you roughly $18,720at first, but thanks to the 30% federal tax credit, you receive 30% back, bringing the cost down to $13,104.

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Average solar panel costs by system size in Kaiminani CDP

To the left side and below, there is the cost summary for multiple sizes of solar panel systems set up in Kaiminani CDP. As expected, with a bigger solar system, there will be a higher upfront cost, but the benefits include more electricity savings and greater income tax credits.

Using the solar panel cost calculator situated down and to the right, you can view a detailed cost and benefit analysis based on an average electric bill of $203.76 in Kaiminani CDP. Swap the $203.76 with your average electricity bill to get more accurate results.

System Size 1kW
Roof Size Min. space required
72 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $676 a year
Est. Price
$3,276
Savings from a 1kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 1,535 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $56
  • Full payback in 1 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 1.1 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 51 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 2,723 mi less a year
System Size 2kW
Roof Size Min. space required
143 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $1,351 a year
Est. Price
$6,552
Savings from a 2kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 3,071 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $113
  • Full payback in 3 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 2.2 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 101 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 5,446 mi less a year
System Size 3kW
Roof Size Min. space required
215 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,027 a year
Est. Price
$9,828
Savings from a 3kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 4,606 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $169
  • Full payback in 4 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.3 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 152 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 8,169 mi less a year
System Size 4kW
Roof Size Min. space required
286 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $2,702 a year
Est. Price
$13,104
Savings from a 4kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 6,141 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $204
  • Full payback in 5 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.99 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 183 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,867 mi less a year
System Size 5kW
Roof Size Min. space required
358 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $3,378 a year
Est. Price
$16,380
Savings from a 5kWthis system
  • Est. yearly production 7,677 kWh
  • Est. monthly savings $204
  • Full payback in 7 years
Environmental Impacts
  • Reduces CO2 emissions by 3.99 tons a year
  • Equivalent to planting 183 trees a year
  • Equivalent to driving 9,867 mi less a year

Kaiminani CDP Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

If you're a rural small business or farm owner, you might be eligible for REAP Grant coverage of between 80% and 100% for your photovoltaic or wind turbine project. If you think you might be in this category, we suggest checking your qualification with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.

For those considering residential solar options, a 30% federal income tax credit is broadly available, increasing the appeal and practicality of solar energy in various areas in the nation. Together with federal efforts, state and local programs help to support the use of solar power.

A total of 15 solar incentive and rebate initiatives are available in Hawaii from different utilities and government bodies.

Solar and Wind Energy Credit (Personal)

Value:Up to $2,250

Beginning in the 1976 tax year, Hawaii businesses have been entitled to income tax credits on new renewable energy devices. The exact rates and amounts of exemptions vary depending on property classification and the specific type of energy system being installed. In each classification, "hard maximums" apply based on the retail price of the system. Amendments to the tax code have since allowed for credit amounts to be paid out as refunds or used toward income liability for the appropriate tax year. Additional information is available on the Hawaii Department of Taxation website.

Solar Water Heater Rebate

Value:Up to $500

Residential customers of the Hawaiian Electric Company, Maui Electric Company, or Hawaii Electric Light Company may be entitled to a one-time rebate to install or replace a solar water heater. Two rebate options, flat rates of $500 or $750, are available depending on the cost of the system. Either rebate will be paid to the solar contractor installing the water heater, meaning it will appear to the customer as a bill credit. Qualifying systems should satisfy all state standards for solar water heating and pass a final inspection from the utility. The program is available on the islands of Oahu, Maui, Hawaii, Molokai, and Lanai. Additional information is available from the HEC website.

Solar and Wind Energy Credit (Corporate)

Value:Up to $2,250

Beginning in the 1976 tax year, Hawaii residents have been entitled to income tax credits on new renewable energy devices. The exact rates and amounts of exemptions vary depending on property classification and the specific type of energy system being installed. In each classification, "hard maximums" apply based on the retail price of the system. Amendments to the tax code have since allowed for credit amounts to be paid out as refunds or used toward income liability for the appropriate tax year. Additional information is available on the Hawaii Department of Taxation website.

Distributed Generation Tariffs

Value:Varies

Interconnected renewable energy and distributed generation customers throughout Hawaii may be compensated for using their system through either grid-supply or Smart Export tariffs (net metering was abolished in 2015.) Under grid-supply tariffs, customer-generators will be credited on their monthly bills for energy sent back to the grid. Unlike net metering, the utility has direct control over how much energy is returned; this is to protect the grid and standardize capacity as per requirements. Different islands have different rate schedules, and rates will vary from time to time. Smart Export tariffs apply to renewable energy systems containing a separate storage module. Excess generation from the system will be used to charge the battery during the daytime, and this energy will be returned to the grid at night. Like grid-supply programs, different islands have different rate schedules for this excess generation. "Community-based tariffs" may apply for microgrid subscribers. These programs function similarly to individual systems, but compensation will be distributed to all subscribers in the proper proportions.

GreenSun Hawaii

Value:Varies

GreenSun Hawaii is an established loss reserve funded by the 2009 federal stimulus package. A variety of lenders throughout the state may tap into the fund to secure loans for homeowners seeking to install new renewable energy devices or make energy efficiency improvements. By having their loans secured, lenders are incentivized to offer lower rates and more optimal terms. Eligible projects include solar PV/water heating/HVAC systems, windows, insulation/weatherization, and ENERGY STAR certified appliances. Interested homeowners should visit the program website to find their local GreenSun lender.

City and County of Honolulu - Solar Loan Program

Value:Varies

Low to moderate-income homeowners in Honolulu or greater Oahu may be eligible for specialized financing on new solar PV/water heating systems, including any necessary roofing work for a successful installation. Condominium owners may also be eligible contingent on approval from their association. Loans come at zero interest, but they may be secured by a mortgage lien if the principal exceeds $10,000. Application forms are available from the City/County of Honolulu website.

Renewables and Efficiency in State Facilities & Operations

Value:Varies

In 2006, Hawaii governor Linda Lingle established new renewable energy standards for state agencies to follow by signing HB 2175. The new law contained: • a minimum LEED Silver certification requirement for all new state buildings, • a solar water heating requirement for all new state buildings, • a requirement for agencies to implement common-sense water and energy saving operational measures, • an order for agencies to purchase only environmentally-friendly products, • and a directive for agencies to track emissions from vehicles. Compliance with the law is measured through annual reports addressed to the legislature.

KIUC - Solar Water Heating Rebate Program

Value:Varies

Energy Wise is a program for commercial customer-members of the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative. Through the program, property owners may receive free advisory services for their energy efficiency and renewable energy needs. A new initiative under Energy Wise awards new solar water heating installations with a $1000 rebate. Eligible systems may be brand new or replace an existing solar water heater over 15 years of age. Additional information is available from the KIUC website.

Feed-in-Tariff

Value:Varies

NOTE: This program is no longer accepting participants. Solar PV, wind, and hydro customers of HECO, MECO, and HELCO may be eligible for the state's feed-in tariff program. Under the program, utilities may sign 20-year contracts to obtain the excess generation from the system in exchange for a fixed rate. Rates vary depending on the method of generation, the rated capacity of the system, and the island on which the system is located. Additional information is available from the Hawaii Department of Energy website.

Solar Contractor Licensing

Value:Varies

The Hawaii Department of Commerce and Consumer Affairs is responsible for issuing contracting licenses in the state. A variety of specialized solar work licenses are available depending on an applicant's training and vocational experience. Solar contracting licenses include C-60 (solar power), C-61 (solar energy), C-61a (solar hot water), and C-61b (solar HVAC). Each license has a separate exam, but all require four years of experience. To install and professionally repair the full breadth of solar PV systems, contractors should pursue a C-13 electrical license, which includes all the privileges of a C-60 solar power license. Plumbing contractors with license C-37 may work with solar water heaters. General contractors have the privileges afforded by a C-61 license. Depending on the license a solar contractor holds, they may need to subcontract certain plumbing or electrical jobs if they do not have the required license. State law requires licensed electricians/plumbers to sign off on any new PV or solar water heater.

City and County of Honolulu - Real Property Tax Exemption for Alternative Energy Improvements

Value:Varies

Any private renewable energy system in Honolulu carries a 25-year local tax exemption by ordinance of the city council. Solar, wind, biomass, and hydroelectric systems qualify for an exemption, as do systems improving energy efficiency at fossil fuel plants. Geothermal and nuclear systems are not exempt. Additional information is available from the Real Property Assessment Division website.

KIUC - Solar Water Heating Loan Program

Value:Varies

Residential members of the Kauai Island Utility Cooperative may be eligible for specialized financing on solar water heaters. Funding may be used to install a new system or replace an existing one over 15 years of age. Loans are serviced by the Kauai Community Federal Credit Union. There is no interest or down payment (both are covered by the utility.) The maximum repayment period is 60 months. The application process involves standard credit checks and a pre-installation audit by KIUC to determine compliance with state standards. Additional information is available from the KIUC website.

Renewable Portfolio Standard

Value:Varies

Beginning in 2009, the Hawaii state government has established a legally binding renewable portfolio standard (RPS) for itself. Previously, RPS laws included provisions for both new renewable energy projects and energy efficiency improvements/offsets; however, only projects falling under the former category meet RPS requirements as of 2015. By 2030, at least 40% of all energy generated in Hawaii must be from renewable sources. 100% of Hawaii's energy should be renewable by 2045. Compliance is measured through a Renewable Energy Credit system and reports sent to the legislature every five years. Additional information is available from the Hawaii Department of Energy website.

Hawaii Energy

Value:Varies

The Hawaii Energy benefits fund supports new renewable energy and energy efficiency incentive programs throughout the state, including public investments toward RPS standards. The fund is supported by a surcharge on all customer utility bills, and its annual budget is determined by each utility's demand. Currently, funds support public bonds for new renewable farms and incentive programs overseen by utilities on five islands. Additional information is available on the fund's website.

Farm and Aquaculture Alternative Energy Loan

Value:Varies

Hawaiian farmers, including fish farmers, may be eligible for special financing from the state government to fund energy efficiency/renewable energy improvement projects. Loans have a maximum principal of 85% of the applicant's project costs up to $1.5 million. Interest rates vary between agriculture and aquacultural property, but they will range from 3 - 5% on unpaid principal only. Repayment periods may extend up to forty years. Loans are serviced by the state Department of Agriculture. The application process includes standard credit checks. Additional information is available from the DOA website.

Are solar panels worth it in Hawaii?

If you plan to own your residence longer than the solar system's payback period, solar panels are a wise investment in Kaiminani CDP. Installing a 5 kW solar system in Kaiminani CDP, HI will, on average, save you $32,522.4 over 20 years, and you can expect to break even in about 7 years.

The cost of not having solar panels in Kaiminani CDP, HI

Not installing solar panels or any other backup energy system leads to missing the earlier mentioned savings and full dependence on your electric utility for electricity. As recent examples in the news have shown, total dependence on your utility provider isn't always the best idea.

In recent years, utilities in Hawaii have had an average of 1.44 outages per customer annually. Usually, outages have an average duration of 122.37 minutes. However, during critical events like hurricanes, aging infrastructure, or wildlife damage, these times can extend dramatically.

Regardless of whether featuring a backup battery or not, a solar panel system can alleviate the strain of possible future outages.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Hawaii County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

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What impacts the cost of solar panels in Kaiminani CDP, HI?

Your Energy Needs - Larger solar panel systems have a larger initial cost, yet the average cost per watt falls as the system size expands. Most consumers see the benefit in installing a solar setup that can produce enough power to replace their entire electric bill, ensuring significant savings.

Make & Model - Solar panels and mounting equipment, like many other products, are available in a variety of makes and models. Given the certain system preferences an contractor might have, choosing a reputable contractor is crucial. The utilization of better equipment is likely to yield a more satisfactory long-term experience for buyers.

Solar Panel Type - It's no surprise that monocrystalline panels are now the standard in the industry. These panels cost more but produce more energy. Most installers in the industry work with panels crafted from this material.

Your Property - No two properties or homes are identical. Trees, rough terrain, or other challenges can increase the difficulty of the installation. Nowadays, the majority of solar installers can evaluate your home with satellite images and include these factors in the preliminary cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Various wages are paid to employees by various companies, and these expenses are passed on to the consumers. Companies often get higher reviews for their services and customer service when they pay higher wages.

Permitting & Interconnection - Your final installation price will be impacted by the permitting and utility interconnection fees, which change by area. Reputable local installers will integrate these numbers into your initial quotes to prevent any surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other HI cities

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Who are the best solar installers in Kaiminani CDP?

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

  • Consulting on all things solar related.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.

Energy Design

Eugene, OR(541) 485-8122

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Consulting on all things solar related.

Sunnova Energy

Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

Services

  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.

Sunrun

San Francisco, CA(833) 394-3384

Services

  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Installation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Monitoring of independent energy generation.
  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.

Renewable Energy Services (RES)

Honokaa CDP, HI(808) 775-7410

Services

  • Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
  • Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
  • Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
  • Reparation of solar arrays.
  • Installation of batteries for energy storage.
  • Installation of solar arrays.

Kaiminani CDP, HI Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • As of October, 2024, the average solar panel installation cost in Kaiminani CDP, HI has reached $4.68/W. Post federal tax credit, a 5 kW solar panel system installation in Kaiminani CDP, HI will roughly cost $16,380.

  • Hawaii offers 15 different rebates and incentives from a range of utilities and government organizations. Furthermore, the majority of people qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.

  • Paying cash provides the most savings, yet there are several financing options available today for solar panels that are also financially sensible. Financing details are often provided by installers and may be included in your initial quotes.

  • Yes, solar panels systems of 5 kW in Kaiminani CDP, HI typically have a payback period of 7years, with expected savings on electricity costs of $32,522.4 over 20 years.
Matt Hope
Last Reviewed By: Matt Hope
Published: 2024-10-01