Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hilo, Hawaii. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Sunrun is a national leader in residential solar with a strong local presence in Hawaii. They are known for their comprehensive service, from custom design to long-term maintenance, and are a top provider for both purchase and popular leasing/Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) options. Their large scale allows for strong manufacturer partnerships and streamlined financing.
RevoluSun is a highly respected, employee-owned company with deep roots in Hawaii. They are consistently praised for their high-quality installations, exceptional customer service, and expert design capabilities. They focus heavily on integrating the latest battery technology to maximize energy independence for homeowners.
With over 40 years of operation, Haleakala Solar is one of Hawaii's most established and trusted solar companies. They have extensive experience with both residential and commercial projects and are known for their technical expertise, particularly with complex installations and off-grid systems suited for Hilo's more rural areas.
** The home solar market in Hilo is **highly developed and competitive**. Driven by the highest electricity rates in the U.S., solar adoption is extremely common. The market is characterized by a mix of large national providers (like Sunrun) and esteemed local/regional companies (like RevoluSun and Haleakala Solar) that have built strong reputations over decades. **Average Quality** is very high, as Hawaii has stringent licensing and permitting requirements (e.g., required by HECO). Installers must be proficient in navigating the state's specific interconnection rules and battery storage requirements, which are critical for managing Hilo's cloudy periods and achieving energy independence. **Competition Level** is intense, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and strong customer service. However, it necessitates thorough vetting. **Typical Pricing** for a residential system in Hilo can range from **$25,000 to $45,000+** before incentives, highly dependent on system size (typically 5kW to 10kW+) and the inclusion of battery storage, which is increasingly standard. The federal investment tax credit (ITC) of 30% significantly reduces the net cost. Most companies offer a variety of financing options, including loans, leases, and PPAs, to make systems accessible.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hilo regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hilo, Hawaii.
While Hilo has more cloudy days than other parts of Hawaii, modern solar panels are highly efficient at converting diffuse sunlight, and you still receive ample solar energy for a strong return on investment. The consistent year-round daylight and Hawaii's high electricity rates (among the highest in the nation) make solar exceptionally cost-effective in Hilo. Proper system sizing by a local installer will account for microclimates to ensure your energy needs are met.
Installing solar in Hilo requires compliance with Hawaii County building codes and a permit from the County Planning Department. Crucially, you must apply to Hawaiian Electric (HECO) for interconnection to the grid under the Customer Grid-Supply (CGS) program, as net energy metering (NEM) is closed. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process, including ensuring your system meets HECO's specific safety and technical requirements.
The entire process typically takes 3 to 6 months. After design, the timeline includes securing HECO interconnection approval (which can take 4-8 weeks), obtaining county permits, scheduling installation, and finally awaiting HECO's final inspection and "Permission to Operate." Seasonal factors like Hilo's rainy season can sometimes cause short delays for installation crews, so it's best to plan accordingly.
Choose a provider licensed in Hawaii with extensive local experience in Hilo's climate and with HECO's interconnection process. Check reviews, ask for references from recent Hilo installations, and verify they are a licensed C-61 or C-46 contractor. For incentives, you qualify for the 30% federal tax credit, and the Hawaii State Energy Office occasionally offers rebate programs; local Hilo installers will have the most current information on available state or county programs.
Adding battery storage is highly recommended in Hilo for energy resilience and maximizing solar use. Batteries store excess solar energy generated during the day for use at night or during cloudy periods and provide critical backup power during grid outages, which can occur due to storms. With HECO's CGS program offering less favorable export credits, using your own stored energy is often more valuable than sending it back to the grid.