Solar Panels Cost $2.7k-$13k in Waimalu CDP, HI | October, 2024
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How much do solar panels cost in Waimalu CDP, HI in 2024?
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To have solar panels in the month of October, 2024 in Waimalu CDP, HI averages out to $3.95/W.
Utilizing this price per watt, we are able to conclude that for every 1 kW (1000 watts) your system can produce you will have to spend $3,950 to get your solar panels installed. After receiving the 30% federal tax credit, you can expect to pay around $13,825 for a 5 kW solar panel system in Waimalu CDP. However, it’s important to realize that a more powerful system may be required to fulfill your energy demands.
Choose your county from the menu on the left to find the typical roof size and maximum residential solar capacity for homes in your area. You can review the price, payback period, and 20-year average savings for a 5 kW system in your county below.
Average out-of-pocket cost for a 5 kW system The upfront amount spent to buy and install solar.
Waimalu CDP: $13,825US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Waimalu CDP: 6 yearsUS Average: 7 years
Average Net 20-year savings The total amount of money saved over 20 years minus the out-of-pocket cost.
Waimalu CDP: $29,152US Average: $15,784
Solar Potential in Waimalu CDP
Estimated system size and solar electricity production per median viable roof in Waimalu CDP.
Roof size 1,162sq. ft.
Capacity 16.25kW DC
Electricity 24.1kkWh AC per yr.
Electricity Costs in Waimalu CDP, HI & What that Means for Your Solar Panel Pricing
Waimalu CDP energy consumers typically have a monthly electric bill of $203.76 and use 461 kWh on average. Smaller houses, including condos and duplexes, are also included in the numbers cited in the previous sentence.
The mean rate for electricity in Waimalu CDP, HI during October, 2024 is 44.19¢ per kWh.
In Waimalu CDP, the typical energy user will need a solar power setup of 4 kW or higher to satisfy their entire power requirements. Initially, a 4 kW solar installation has a cost of $15,800, but with a 30% tax credit, the total cost is $11,060.
Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.
Average solar panel costs by system size in Waimalu CDP
To the left and below, the pricing details for multiple sizes of solar panel systems installed in Waimalu CDP is shown. The investment for a more extensive solar panel setup is higher, but it also yields greater electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.
The solar panel cost calculator, positioned to the right and below, provides a cost and benefit breakdown using an average $203.76 electric bill for Waimalu CDP. If you desire customized results, adjust the $203.76 to your typical electricity bill amount.
System Size
Roof Size Min. space required
Electricity Value Annual Production
Est. Price
System Size 1kW
Roof Size Min. space required
72 ft²
Electricity Value Annual Production $676 a year
Est. Price
$2,765
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
$5,530
Savings from a 2kWthis system
Est. yearly production 3,071 kWh
Est. monthly savings $113
Full payback in 2 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
$8,295
Savings from a 3kWthis system
Est. yearly production 4,606 kWh
Est. monthly savings $169
Full payback in 3 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
$11,060
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
$13,825
Savings from a 5kWthis system
Est. yearly production 7,677 kWh
Est. monthly savings $204
Full payback in 6 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
Waimalu CDP Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024
With the REAP Grant, up to 100% and no less than 80% of the installation costs for solar or wind turbines may be covered for rural small business owners and farmers. Believe you fit the criteria? Verify your eligibility with our REAP Grant eligibility tool.
For residential solar projects, most people are eligible for the 30% federal income tax credit, making solar a practical solution in various parts of the country. On top of that, there are many state and local incentives to further promote the adoption of solar energy.
Hawaii has 15 solar rebate and incentive programs provided by various utilities and government agencies.
Solar incentives in HIIncentive Description Value
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?
For homeowners in Waimalu CDP who intend to stay in their residence beyond the solar payback period, solar panels make an smart investment. Installing a 5 kW solar system in Waimalu CDP, HI will, on average, save you $35,077.4 over 20 years, and you can expect to break even in about 6 years.
The cost of not having solar panels in Waimalu CDP, HI
The absence of solar panels or an alternative energy backup means that you miss out on the savings noted earlier and depend on your electric utility for electricity. Recent news examples have indicated that full reliance on your utility provider is not always ideal.
Lately, customers in Hawaii have encountered an average of 1.44 utility outages each year. On average, an outage lasts 122.37 minutes. When major events such as winter storms, equipment failure, or wildlife damage occur, these durations can increase significantly
A solar panel system could lessen the burden of future outages, even if it lacks a backup battery.
Power Outages
Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Honolulu County.
What impacts the cost of solar panels in Waimalu CDP, HI?
Your Energy Needs - Even if the initial expense is higher, the price per watt decreases with larger solar panel systems. Many consumers realize it's a good idea to install a solar system that can generate enough power to fully cover their electric bill, because it helps them save more money.
Make & Model - Solar panels and mounting equipment, similar to many other products, come in a variety of makes and models. Because the installer you select might have particular brand preferences, selecting a highly rated company is especially important. The selection of superior equipment can greatly better the long-term experience for buyers.
Solar Panel Type - Monocrystalline panels are broadly acknowledged as the standard in the industry, and for good cause. Although they are costlier, they provide increased energy. Many installers use panels crafted from this material.
Your Property - Elements like sloping terrain, trees, or other impediments might complicate the installation process. Today, many solar installers can assess your home with satellite images and factor in these factors in the preliminary cost estimate.
Labor Rates - Variations in employee wages across companies lead to expenses that are passed on to the consumers. Companies paying higher wages usually garner better reviews for their work and customer service.
Permitting & Interconnection - The fees for local permitting and utility interconnection, which differ by area, will impact the cost of your installation. That said, reputable local installers will be able to incorporate these numbers into your preliminary quotes so there are no surprises.
Expertise in consulting on advantageous financing for solar.
Solar systems for selling electricity back to the grid.
Auditing of energy requirements for independent energy generation.
Installation of batteries for energy storage.
Reparation of solar arrays.
Installation of solar arrays.
Waimalu CDP, HI Solar Panel Cost FAQs
In October, 2024, the average cost of solar panels per watt in Waimalu CDP, HI is $3.95/W. After the federal tax credit, the estimated cost for a 5 kW solar panel system in Waimalu CDP, HI is roughly $13,825.
Various utility providers and government organizations in Hawaii are offering 15 rebates and incentives at this time. Additionally, the vast majority qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.
Although cash payments offer the greatest savings, many financing options for solar panels now exist that are also cost-effective. Many installers will include information about their financing partners in the initial quotes they provide.
Yes, the average 5 kW solar panel payback period in Waimalu CDP, HI stands at 6 years, yielding average electricity savings of $35,077.4 over 20 years.