The Best Home Solar in Paia, HI

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

#1

Rising Sun Solar & Electric

4.9
(180 reviews)
Verified

A highly-rated, locally-owned and operated company known for its personalized service and expertise in both residential and commercial solar projects. They handle the entire process from design and permitting to installation and maintenance, with a strong focus on customer education and high-quality craftsmanship.

430 Hookahi St, Wailuku, HI 96793 (Approx. 6 miles from Paia)

Specialties & Features

Grid-tied and off-grid solar solutions
Battery storage system installation
Solar panel maintenance and repair

Business Information

Years in Business:15 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

Hawaiian Sun Solar

4.8
(250 reviews)
Verified

One of Hawaii's most established solar providers with a significant presence on Maui. They are recognized for their extensive experience with Hawaii's unique energy challenges and offer a wide range of financing options, including leases and PPAs. They have strong manufacturer partnerships and provide robust warranty packages.

50 Hana Hwy, Kahului, HI 96732 (Approx. 4 miles from Paia)

Specialties & Features

Solar financing and leasing options
Energy efficiency assessments
Residential solar panel installation

Business Information

Years in Business:20 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Haleakala Solar

4.7
(200 reviews)
Verified

A pioneer in the Hawaiian solar industry with decades of experience, Haleakala Solar specializes in custom-designed systems for Maui's diverse environments. They are particularly adept at complex installations and offer comprehensive service and maintenance plans to ensure long-term system performance.

810 Kokomo Rd, Haiku, HI 96708 (Approx. 5 miles from Paia)

Specialties & Features

Solar energy system design and consultation
Battery storage system installation
Professional solar panel cleaning services

Business Information

Years in Business:40 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Paia

The home solar market in Paia and across Maui is **highly mature and competitive**. Due to Hawaii having the highest electricity rates in the nation, the adoption of solar is exceptionally high, driving a demand for quality and reliability. The average quality of providers is very good, with companies needing deep local knowledge of Maui Electric's (MECO) interconnection requirements and Hawaii's specific incentives (like the state tax credit) to succeed. **Competition** is fierce among a dozen or so established local and state-wide companies, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and high service standards. **Typical pricing** for a residential solar system in Hawaii is generally higher than the national average due to shipping costs and market conditions, but the return on investment is among the fastest in the country. A typical 6-8 kW system can range from **$25,000 to $45,000+ before incentives**, with the federal tax credit and state credits significantly reducing the net cost. Most companies offer a full suite of services, including battery storage, which is now a near-standard addition due to the importance of backup power.

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 Paia regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Paia

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

1How does Paia's coastal climate and frequent cloud cover affect solar panel efficiency and energy production?

Paia's abundant sunshine is excellent for solar, but the coastal cloud cover, especially in the afternoon, can cause intermittent production dips. High-quality panels with good low-light performance are key. The consistent year-round temperatures also prevent the efficiency losses seen in hotter climates, making Paia a very productive location for solar overall.

2What are the specific permitting and interconnection steps required for solar in Paia with Maui Electric?

Installing solar in Paia requires a County of Maui building permit and a separate interconnection agreement with Maui Electric (MECO). Due to circuit capacity limits on Maui's grid, especially in North Shore areas, MECO may require a supplemental review which can add time. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process, including navigating the current "Customer Self-Supply" program rules for new systems.

3Are there any Hawaii or Maui-specific incentives I should know about on top of the federal tax credit?

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. Furthermore, solar installations in Hawaii are exempt from the general excise tax (GET) and permit fees, significantly reducing the gross project cost. These local incentives make the net investment much more attractive.

4How long does a typical home solar installation take in Paia from signing to activation?

The timeline is typically 3 to 6 months. The physical installation often takes just a few days, but the majority of the time is spent on engineering, securing county permits, and awaiting Maui Electric's interconnection approval and meter installation. Seasonal weather does not heavily impact the schedule, but MECO's current backlog is often the primary variable.

5What should I look for when choosing a solar provider on Maui, and are local companies better?

Prioritize licensed, insured, and NABCEP-certified installers with extensive experience navigating MECO's interconnection process. A strong local company based on Maui is highly advantageous; they understand Paia's microclimates, have established relationships with county inspectors and MECO, and can provide reliable long-term service and maintenance, which is critical for system longevity.