Solar Panels Cost 2.7k-13k in Waimanalo CDP, HI | October, 2024

Solar Panels Cost $2.7k-$13k in Waimanalo CDP, HI | October, 2024

High Power Bills?

Reduce or replace your electricity bill with solar

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

You'll spend, on average, $3.95 per watt in Waimanalo CDP, HI in the month of October, 2024 to go solar.

Using the rate per watt, we are able to come to the conclusion that for every 1 kW (1000 watts) your solar panels can produce, you will have to spend, on average, $3,950 to have it installed. On average, the expense of a 5 kW solar system in Waimanalo CDP, after you subtract 30% federal tax credit, is around $13,825. To fully meet your energy demands, you could require more than a 5kW system.

On the left, select your county to view the typical roof size and the maximum production capacity for residential solar on houses in your area. Additionally, you can also see an outline of the costs, 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.
Waimanalo CDP: $13,825US Average: $12,562
Average Payback Period The number of years until you break even on the solar investment.
Waimanalo 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.
Waimanalo CDP: $29,152US Average: $15,784

Solar Potential in Waimanalo CDP

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

Roof size 1,162sq. ft.
Capacity 16.25kW DC
Electricity 24.1kkWh AC per yr.

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

For Waimanalo CDP residents, the average monthly kWh usage is 461, with an standard electric bill of $203.76. Keep in mind that apartments and smaller dwellings, which generally have reduced energy consumption, are included in this statistic.

For October 2024, Waimanalo CDP, HI's mean electricity rate is 44.19¢ per kWh.

To fully meet the energy needs of an average user in Waimanalo CDP, a solar system of 4 kW or larger is needed. Before any incentives, a 4 kWsolar panel system will cost around $15,800, but with a 30% federal tax credit, the price drops to $11,060.

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Average solar panel costs by system size in Waimanalo CDP

Visible below and to the left is the pricing breakdown for multiple sizes of the solar panel systems in Waimanalo CDP. As expected, a larger solar system implies a greater initial expense, but it also results in more significant electricity savings and more substantial income tax credits.

The solar panel cost calculator below and to the right analyzes costs and benefits, based on an average $203.76 electric bill in Waimanalo CDP For a more accurate estimate, swap the $203.76 with your average electricity bill amount.

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

Waimanalo CDP Solar Panel Installation Incentives & Rebates | 2024

Between 80% and 100% of your solar or wind turbine installation costs may be covered by the REAP Grant if you own a rural small business or farm. If you think you might be eligible, try our REAP Grant eligibility tool to confirm your qualification.

Most residents are eligible for the 30% federal income tax credit for residential solar, making it a viable option in numerous states throughout the country. On top of that, there are various state and local incentives to further encourage the adoption of solar energy.

Hawaii offers 15 solar rebate and incentive programs through multiple utilities and government entities.

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 those planning to remain in their homes after the solar system's payback period, adding solar panels is a obvious choice in Waimanalo CDP. A 5 kW solar system in Waimanalo CDP, HI could potentially save you $35,077.4 over the course of 20 years, with the break even point typically at 6 years.

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

Beyond forgoing the savings noted above, the absence of solar panels or an alternative backup energy solution leads to total dependency on your electric utility for power. Total reliance on your utility isn't always the best scenario as the news has recently shown.

Annually, customers in Hawaii face approximately 1.44 outages each year. The average length of an outage is 122.37 minutes. In events like overloaded power grids, winter storms or vandalism, this duration can extend significantly.

Even without a backup battery, a solar panel system could alleviate the burden of potential future power disruptions you may face.

Power Outages

Currently, 0 customers are being tracked in Honolulu County.

Learn more

Customers Out:

0

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

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

Your Energy Needs - The cost per watt is decreased with larger solar panel systems, even though the initial cost is higher. Numerous people find it beneficial to set up a solar energy system that can offset their entire electric bill. This ensures optimal savings.

Make & Model - Solar panels and mounting equipment, like many other products, come in different makes and models. The preferences for system that your installer has may make it essential to choose a reputable company. Consumers who opt for superior materials generally enjoy a better long-term experience.

Solar Panel Type - The standard in the industry is now monocrystalline panels, and for good reason. They are pricier but produce more energy. The majority of professionals in solar installation use panels crafted from this material.

Your Property - No two properties or homes are the same. Rough terrain, trees, or additional hindrances can make the installation process more challenging. The majority of solar installers today are able to use satellite imagery to assess your home and incorporate these elements in the first cost estimate.

Labor Rates - Employees get varied wages from different companies, and these costs are borne by the consumers. Companies that pay higher wages often receive higher reviews for their work and customer service.

Permitting & Interconnection - Installation costs will be affected by different local permitting and utility interconnection fees, depending on the region. Quality local installers will include these numbers into your first quotes to prevent any surprises.

See what solar panels cost in other HI cities

Go Solar for less than your cell phone bill.

Who are the best solar installers in Waimanalo CDP?

Academy Energy Group

Newburgh, IN(812) 518-2150

Services

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

OceanHead Solar & Electric

(808) 735-5745

Services

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

SunPower Corporation

San Jose, CA(800) 786-7693

Services

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

Energy Design

Eugene, OR(541) 485-8122

Services

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

Sunnova Energy

Houston, TX(866) 786-6682

Services

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

Sunrun

San Francisco, CA(833) 394-3384

Services

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

Renewable Energy Services (RES)

Honokaa CDP, HI(808) 775-7410

Services

  • 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.

Waimanalo CDP, HI Solar Panel Cost FAQs

  • As of October, 2024, the average solar panel installation cost in Waimanalo CDP, HI has reached $3.95/W. After the federal tax credit, the estimated cost for a 5 kW solar panel system in Waimanalo CDP, HI is roughly $13,825.

  • There are 15 rebates and incentives available in Hawaii from a range of utility providers and government organizations. Additionally, the vast majority qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.

  • Even though cash payments provide the greatest savings, many financing options for solar panels today are also cost-effective. Installers will often include details on financing partners in the quotes they provide initially.

  • Yes, the typical payback time for 5 kW solar panel systems in Waimanalo CDP, HI is 6 years, and the expected electricity cost savings over 20 years is $35,077.4.
Alex Zdanov
Last Reviewed By: Alex Zdanov
Published: 2024-10-01