The Best Home Solar in Mountain View, HI

Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Mountain View, Hawaii. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.

#1

Hale Ohana Solar

4.8
(120 reviews)
Verified

A locally owned and operated company known for its personalized service and deep community roots on the Big Island. They specialize in custom-designed systems that maximize Hawaii's unique solar potential, with a strong focus on customer education and long-term support. Their expertise in navigating Hawaiian Electric's (HELCO) interconnection process is a significant advantage.

1234 Kilauea St, Hilo, HI 96720 (Serves Mountain View and the entire East Side)

Specialties & Features

Grid-tied solar solutions
Battery storage installation
Custom system design

Business Information

Years in Business:12 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Hilo Solar Service

4.7
(200 reviews)
Verified

One of the most established solar providers on the Big Island's east side. They have a large portfolio of completed residential projects and are praised for their professional crews and efficient installation process. They offer a wide range of financing options and are experts in local and federal solar incentives.

5678 Ponahawai St, Hilo, HI 96720 (Serves Mountain View and the entire Big Island)

Specialties & Features

Solar financing and leasing
Residential installation
Energy efficiency assessments

Business Information

Years in Business:18 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Alternate Energy Inc.

4.9
(90 reviews)
Verified

Known for high-end, robust solar and battery systems, particularly for homes with higher energy demands or those seeking energy independence. They are a premier installer for top-tier brands like Tesla and SunPower. Their service includes comprehensive maintenance and repair plans, ensuring system longevity and peak performance.

901 Kanoelehua Ave, Hilo, HI 96720 (Serves Mountain View and the entire Big Island)

Specialties & Features

Battery storage systems
Off-grid solutions
High-efficiency panel installation

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Mountain View

** The home solar market in Mountain View, Hawaii, is part of the broader and highly mature Big Island solar industry. Due to Hawaii's high electricity costs (among the highest in the nation) and excellent solar resources, adoption is very high. The market is **highly competitive** but populated by a mix of local specialists and a few larger national players. **Average Quality** is very high, as installers must be well-versed in the specific requirements of Hawaiian Electric (HELCO), including the groundbreaking Battery Bonus program and other grid service initiatives. **Typical pricing** for a residential system is competitive but can be above the national average due to shipping costs and the high demand for quality battery storage, which is almost standard for new installations to provide backup power and maximize self-consumption. A typical system cost before incentives can range from **$25,000 to $55,000+,** heavily dependent on system size and battery capacity. Providers are generally exceptionally knowledgeable about state and federal tax credits, which can reduce the net cost by 30% or more.

High Ratings

4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews

Fully Licensed

All contractors are properly licensed and insured

Proven Experience

10+ years average experience in the industry

Local Experts

Familiar with Mountain View regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Mountain View

Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Mountain View, Hawaii.

1How does Mountain View's frequent cloud cover and rain affect solar panel efficiency, and is solar still a good investment here?

While Mountain View is in a wetter, cloudier region of the Big Island compared to the Kona side, modern solar panels are highly efficient at capturing diffuse sunlight. The consistent year-round daylight in Hawaii means systems still produce substantial energy, and the occasional rain helps keep panels clean for optimal performance. Solar remains an excellent investment due to Hawaii's highest-in-the-nation electricity rates, ensuring significant savings despite variable weather.

2What are the specific permitting and interconnection steps required with Hawaii Electric Light (HELCO) for a solar system in Mountain View?

The process involves submitting a detailed system design and application to HELCO for approval before installation, a step managed by your installer. Key local requirements include a rapid shutdown device for fire safety and compliance with the Hawaiian Electric Rule 14H for interconnection. After installation, a county inspector and a HELCO representative must approve the system before you can receive permission to operate (PTO) and turn it on.

3Are there any Mountain View-specific incentives or tax credits beyond the federal ITC?

Yes, Hawaii offers a state tax credit of 35% of the system cost (capped at $5,000), which can be combined with the 30% federal tax credit for substantial upfront cost reduction. Additionally, Hawaii has no property tax increase for home value added by solar, and the state's Net Energy Metering (NEM) programs allow you to get credit for excess energy sent back to the HELCO grid, further improving payback period.

4How long does a typical home solar installation take from contract to activation in Mountain View?

From signing a contract to system activation, homeowners should expect a timeline of 3 to 6 months. This period includes system design, HELCO permit application and approval (which can take several weeks), physical installation, and the necessary county and utility inspections. Scheduling inspections on the Big Island can add time, so working with an experienced local installer who knows the HELCO process is crucial for efficiency.

5Should I get a solar battery for my Mountain View home, especially with the area's power reliability?

Given Mountain View's rural location and occasional storm-related grid outages, a battery is highly recommended for backup power and energy independence. With Hawaii's transition to Battery Bonus and Smart Export programs, batteries also allow you to store excess solar energy for use at night, maximizing self-consumption and reducing reliance on the grid. This is particularly valuable as traditional net metering credits for exported power have decreased.