Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Kamuela, 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 on the Big Island. They are known for their comprehensive service, from consultation and design to installation and maintenance, and are a top provider for both purchase and lease/PPA financing options. Their scale allows for strong manufacturer partnerships and streamlined processes.
A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company based right on the Big Island. They have built an excellent reputation for personalized service, high-quality craftsmanship, and deep knowledge of Hawaii's specific climate, incentives (like the Hawaiian Electric rebates), and interconnection requirements. They specialize in both residential and commercial projects.
A well-established local contractor with decades of experience serving the Big Island. They are known for their engineering expertise and provide a full suite of services from design to maintenance. They have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers and are particularly skilled in designing systems that maximize energy production in Hawaii's unique environment.
** The home solar market in Kamuela, Hawaii, is robust and highly competitive, driven by some of the highest electricity costs in the nation and excellent solar irradiance. The average quality of providers is very high, as the challenging interconnection process with the local utility (Hawaiian Electric) and strict state building codes necessitate expertise and proper licensing. Competition is fierce among both large national players (like Sunrun) and exceptional local installers, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and high service standards. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Kamuela is premium compared to the national average, often ranging from **$3.50 to $4.50 per watt** before incentives, due to higher labor, equipment shipping, and permitting costs. However, the return on investment is among the fastest in the country due to the high cost of grid power. There is a very strong emphasis on pairing new solar installations with battery storage (like Tesla Powerwall or Enphase IQ Battery) to provide backup power and to maximize self-consumption under Hawaii's grid supply tariff programs. Most reputable companies are exceptionally knowledgeable about federal tax credits (ITC) and any available state or utility-specific incentives.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Kamuela regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Kamuela, Hawaii.
Kamuela's high elevation and frequent cloud cover, especially in the afternoon, can reduce peak sun hours compared to leeward coastal areas. However, the cooler temperatures at this elevation actually improve solar panel efficiency, which can offset some of the lost sunlight. A well-designed system will account for these microclimate patterns, often orienting panels to maximize morning sun capture when skies are typically clearer.
Installation requires a building permit from Hawaii County and an electrical permit. Crucially, you must apply for interconnection with Hawaiian Electric (HECO) for the island's grid. Due to the high saturation of solar, some circuits in Kamuela may be subject to HECO's "Customer Self-Supply" program, which does not allow for net metering credits, making a battery storage system like a Tesla Powerwall highly recommended for maximizing your investment.
Yes, winter months (November-February) bring shorter days, lower sun angles, and increased rain and cloud cover, leading to a predictable dip in production. This makes system sizing critical; a reputable local installer will design your system to meet your annual needs, not just summer peaks, and will strongly advise including battery backup to maintain power during the frequent winter storms that can cause grid outages.
Choose a provider licensed in Hawaii with extensive experience installing on the Big Island. They should understand the specific interconnection challenges with HECO, the county's permitting process, and how to design for Kamuela's microclimate. Ask for references from recent installations in your specific area (Waimea, Kamuela) and verify they handle the full process, including securing all necessary local permits and utility approvals.
Given some of the highest utility rates in the nation, payback periods in Kamuela can be relatively short, typically between 5-8 years for a cash purchase. The exact timeline depends on your current HELCO bill, system size, financing method, and whether you include storage. The 30% federal tax credit and Hawaii's state tax credits significantly reduce the net cost, accelerating your return on investment.