Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Keauhou, Hawaii. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As one of the largest dedicated residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun has a significant presence in Hawaii. They are known for their comprehensive service, from initial consultation and design to installation and ongoing maintenance. They offer a variety of financing options, including leases, PPAs, and loans, making solar accessible. Their strong manufacturer partnerships ensure high-quality equipment and robust warranties.
A locally-owned and operated company with deep roots in Hawaii, having served the islands for over 40 years. They are highly respected for their expertise in designing systems for Hawaii's unique climate and grid requirements. They focus on both grid-tied and off-grid solutions and are experts in integrating battery storage for energy resilience.
Hoku Solar is a well-established local contractor based in Kona, providing personalized service and deep knowledge of the county permitting and HECO interconnection processes. They are known for quality craftsmanship and strong customer service, offering a full suite of services from energy assessment to post-installation maintenance and repair.
** The home solar market in Keauhou and the wider Kona region is mature and highly competitive, driven by some of the highest electricity rates in the nation. The average quality of installers is very high, as the complex Hawaiian Electric (HECO) interconnection standards and unique environmental conditions (salt air, high sun exposure) require significant expertise. Companies must be well-versed in current battery incentive programs like the Hawaiian Electric Battery Bonus program, which is critical for adding storage to new and existing systems. The market is a mix of large national providers (like Sunrun) and long-standing local specialists (like Haleakala Solar and Hoku Solar). Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive but sits at a premium compared to the mainland U.S. due to shipping costs and the specialized knowledge required, with average gross prices ranging from $3.00 to $4.50 per watt before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any state 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 Keauhou regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Keauhou, Hawaii.
Keauhou's abundant sunshine is excellent for solar production, but the volcanic environment presents unique challenges. Vog (volcanic smog) and salt spray from the ocean can accumulate on panels, reducing efficiency. Regular cleaning with deionized water is recommended, and choosing corrosion-resistant mounting hardware is crucial for system longevity in this coastal climate.
A typical residential system in Keauhou ranges from $20,000 to $35,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Critically, Hawaii offers a state tax credit of 35% (capped at $5,000) in addition to the 30% federal tax credit. Combined with Hawaii's high electricity rates (among the highest in the U.S.), these incentives lead to a relatively fast payback period, often between 5-7 years.
Interconnection with Hawaiian Electric is a mandatory step. The process includes application submission, engineering review, and approval, which can take 2-4 months. From signing a contract to a fully operational system, homeowners should plan for a total timeline of 4-6 months. Working with a local, experienced installer who is familiar with HECO's specific requirements and timelines for the Kona district is essential to avoid delays.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience, proper Hawaii-issued licenses (C-61 Solar and C-13 Electrical), and strong familiarity with HECO's interconnection process. Ask for references from recent installations in your specific area, verify they handle all county permitting (Hawaiʻi County), and ensure they offer robust warranties. Local companies understand the micro-climates and specific hardware needs for coastal, vog-prone environments.
Systems are engineered for high wind speeds, with most installations rated for Hawaii's building code requirements of up to 140 mph. Proper mounting and racking are critical. A key local consideration is choosing a battery storage solution (like a solar battery) to provide backup power during grid outages, which can occur due to storms or volcanic activity, ensuring you have power even when the sun isn't shining.