The Best Home Solar in Pepeekeo, HI

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

#1

Haleakala Solar

4.8
(150 reviews)
Verified

One of Hawaii's oldest and most established solar companies, Haleakala Solar has been a leader in renewable energy since 1977. They offer comprehensive services from initial consultation and custom design to installation and long-term maintenance. They are particularly known for their deep expertise with both grid-tied and battery-backed systems, which is crucial for the Pepeekeo area.

100 Kamehameha Ave Suite 215, Hilo, HI 96720 (This is their main Hilo office serving the Hamakua Coast, including Pepeekeo)

Specialties & Features

Battery storage system installation
Off-grid solar solutions
Professional system design
consultation

Business Information

Years in Business:47 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#2

RevoluSun

4.7
(200 reviews)
Verified

RevoluSun is a highly-rated, full-service solar provider with a strong presence across Hawaii. They are known for their high-quality installations, excellent customer service, and strong manufacturer partnerships (e.g., Panasonic, Enphase). They offer a wide range of financing options and are experts in navigating Hawaii's specific utility regulations and state incentives.

100 A Maluna St, Hilo, HI 96720 (This location serves the entire East Hawaii region)

Specialties & Features

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

Business Information

Years in Business:14 years
Licensed:Yes
Insured:Yes
#3

Hawaii Energy Connection

4.6
(80 reviews)
Verified

A locally owned and operated company that has built a strong reputation on the Big Island for personalized service and technical expertise. They focus on creating custom solar solutions tailored to each home's specific energy needs and architectural style. They provide robust maintenance and cleaning services to ensure long-term system performance.

100 Kamehameha Ave Ste 117, Hilo, HI 96720

Specialties & Features

Solar panel maintenance and repair
Custom residential system design
Grid-tied and off-grid solutions

Business Information

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

Why These Are the Top Home Solar Contractors in Pepeekeo

The home solar market in Pepeekeo and the surrounding Hamakua Coast is mature and highly competitive, driven by some of the highest electricity costs in the United States. The quality of service providers is generally very high, as Hawaii has stringent licensing requirements and a complex regulatory environment (e.g., Hawaiian Electric's Customer Self-Supply program) that necessitates expert knowledge. Companies operating here must be well-versed in battery storage due to the prevalence of interconnection challenges and the desire for energy resilience. Typical pricing for a residential solar system in this region can range from **$3.50 to $4.50 per watt** before incentives, meaning a standard 6 kW system could cost between $21,000 and $27,000. However, with the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and potential state-level incentives, the net cost can be significantly reduced. Consumers are generally well-informed, and companies compete heavily on reputation, warranty offerings, and their ability to seamlessly manage the permitting and interconnection process.

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 Pepeekeo regulations and climate

Frequently Asked Questions About Home Solar in Pepeekeo

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

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

Pepeekeo's location on the windward (Hilo) side of the Big Island means more frequent rain and cloud cover compared to leeward areas. While this can reduce peak production, modern high-efficiency panels perform well in diffuse light, and the consistent year-round daylight ensures substantial generation. Importantly, Hawaii's high electricity costs make even the energy produced on cloudier days extremely valuable, and systems are sized to account for local weather patterns to meet your annual needs.

2What are the specific permitting and grid-connection processes for solar in Pepeekeo with Hawaiian Electric (HECO)?

Installing solar in Pepeekeo requires navigating both Hawaii County building permits and Hawaiian Electric's (HECO) interconnection process. A key local consideration is that your home is likely on the "Hawaii Island" grid. Due to circuit capacity limits in some areas, HECO may require a supplemental review, which can add time. A reputable local installer will manage this entire process, including submitting the required engineering documents and applying for the Net Energy Metering (NEM) program to connect your system to the grid.

3Are there any unique roof or structural considerations for solar in Pepeekeo due to local weather?

Yes, Pepeekeo's higher rainfall and potential for tropical storm conditions necessitate specific structural considerations. Installers must design systems to handle high wind loads as per Hawaii County code, often requiring specialized racking and attachment methods. For older homes, a roof inspection is crucial to ensure it can support the system long-term, and corrosion-resistant hardware is essential due to the humid, salty air.

4What should I look for when choosing a solar provider in the Pepeekeo area?

Prioritize providers with extensive local experience on the Big Island, as they understand HECO's requirements, county inspectors, and micro-climates like Pepeekeo's. Verify they are licensed (C-61 or C-46), insured, and have a strong track record of installations in your specific district. Ask for local references and ensure they provide detailed production estimates that factor in your home's specific sun exposure, which can be affected by the region's typical cloud patterns.

5With Hawaii's high electricity rates, what is the typical payback period for a solar investment in Pepeekeo, and what financial incentives are available?

Due to some of the highest utility rates in the nation (over 40 cents per kWh), payback periods in Pepeekeo are often among the fastest in the country, typically ranging from 4 to 7 years. The primary incentive is the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Hawaii no longer offers a state tax credit, but the $0 state tax on the increased home value from solar and the ongoing savings via Net Energy Metering create exceptional long-term value.