Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Lahaina, Hawaii. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, locally owned and operated company with over two decades of experience serving Maui. They are known for comprehensive service, from initial design to installation and long-term maintenance, with deep expertise in both grid-tied and battery-backed systems crucial for Maui's energy landscape.
A well-established Maui-based company known for high-quality installations and excellent customer service. They offer a full suite of services and are particularly strong in designing systems that maximize energy efficiency and leverage the latest battery technology for energy resilience.
As one of the largest residential solar companies in the United States, Sunrun has a significant presence in Hawaii. They are a primary provider of solar leasing and PPA (Power Purchase Agreement) options, making solar accessible with little to no upfront cost. Their national scale provides robust service and warranty backing.
** The home solar market in Lahaina and across Maui is one of the most mature and critical in the United States, driven by the highest electricity costs in the nation. The market is characterized by **high competition** among a mix of strong local contractors and large national firms. The average quality of providers is very high, as Hawaii's specific electrical codes and interconnection requirements demand significant expertise. Following the Lahaina wildfires, the focus has intensified on **energy resilience**. Systems with battery storage (like the Tesla Powerwall or LG Chem) are now considered standard rather than a luxury, allowing homeowners to maintain power during grid outages. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in Hawaii is higher than the national average due to shipping costs and complex installation requirements, but the return on investment is rapid due to avoided high utility bills. A typical system cost can range from **$25,000 to $55,000+** before incentives, heavily dependent on system size and battery capacity. Providers must have an expert-level understanding of Hawaiian Electric's (HECO) interconnection processes and available state and federal incentives, which all top-tier companies possess.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Lahaina regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Lahaina, Hawaii.
Lahaina's abundant sunshine is excellent for solar production, but the salty, humid ocean air can accelerate corrosion, making corrosion-resistant equipment and regular maintenance essential. Following the wildfires, it's crucial to work with a licensed installer who will conduct a thorough structural assessment of your roof and ensure all new installations comply with updated county building codes and any revised wildfire mitigation guidelines from Hawaiian Electric.
While system costs are competitive with mainland averages, the high cost of electricity on Maui (often over $0.40 per kWh) makes the payback period for solar exceptionally fast, typically 4-7 years. Key local incentives include the 30% federal tax credit, the Hawaii State Tax Credit (up to $5,000), and Hawaiian Electric's Customer Grid Supply (CGS) program, which provides a credit for excess energy sent to the grid, though rates are lower than the retail price you pay.
The timeline can be longer in Hawaii than on the mainland. After design and contract signing, securing permits from Maui County and approval for interconnection from Hawaiian Electric can take 2-4 months. Physical installation itself is usually quick (1-3 days), but the total process from start to "on" often spans 4-6 months, with potential for further delays as the community rebuilds infrastructure.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience, a strong physical presence on Maui, and a proven track record of navigating Hawaiian Electric's specific interconnection process. Ensure they are licensed (C-61 or C-46 for solar), insured, and offer robust post-installation service and monitoring. Given Lahaina's environment, ask about their experience with salt-air corrosion and their recommended equipment warranties.
Battery storage is highly recommended for energy resilience, especially given Maui's grid challenges and the imperative for personal backup power. Hawaiian Electric currently offers a "Customer Grid Supply Plus" program, which is a form of NEM. It credits excess solar sent to the grid at a lower wholesale rate, making it more economical to store energy in a battery for your own use at night rather than relying heavily on exporting power.