Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Waikoloa, Hawaii. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
As one of the largest residential solar companies in the U.S., Sunrun has a significant presence in Hawaii. They are known for their strong focus on solar leasing and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), making solar accessible with little to no upfront cost. They offer comprehensive services from design to maintenance and have extensive experience with Hawaii's unique utility interconnection processes (HECO).
A highly respected, locally-owned and operated company on the Big Island since 1998. They have a stellar reputation for quality craftsmanship, personalized service, and deep expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid systems, which is crucial for more remote parts of the island. They handle the entire process in-house, from design and engineering to installation.
Another top-tier, locally-based contractor known for its high-quality installations and excellent customer service. They specialize in maximizing energy savings through efficient system design and often work with premium equipment. They are particularly adept at navigating Hawaii's specific incentives and the HECO interconnection agreement process.
The home solar market in Waikoloa and the broader Big Island is mature and highly competitive, driven by some of the highest electricity costs in the nation. The quality of service is generally very high, as installers must be well-versed in the specific challenges of the Hawaiian market, including dealing with the utility Hawaiian Electric (HECO), managing corrosion from the salt air, and designing systems that can handle intermittent cloud cover. Competition is fierce among both national providers (like Sunrun) and exceptional local contractors (like Alternate Energy and Hawaii Energy Savers). Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive but can be higher than the national average due to shipping costs and the specialized expertise required; a ballpark figure ranges from $3.00 to $4.50 per watt before incentives. Most homeowners heavily utilize the available federal tax credit (currently 30%) and local rebates, with a major industry shift towards systems that include battery storage to provide power during outages and to maximize self-consumption of solar energy.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Waikoloa regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Waikoloa, Hawaii.
Waikoloa's abundant sunshine is excellent for solar production, but periodic vog (volcanic smog from Kīlauea) can settle a light layer of ash and sulfur compounds on panels, reducing efficiency. Regular cleaning with deionized water is recommended to remove this corrosive residue, and systems are often sized slightly larger to account for minor, temporary production dips during significant vog events.
For a typical Waikoloa home, a solar-plus-storage system ranges from $25,000 to $45,000 before incentives, with higher costs often due to the essential battery component for backup. Key incentives include the 30% federal tax credit, the Hawaii State Tax Credit (up to $5,000), and the Hawaiian Electric (HECO) Battery Bonus program, which can significantly reduce the net cost.
All systems must be approved by Hawaiian Electric (HECO) via a detailed interconnection application. The entire process, from contract to permission to operate (PTO), typically takes 4 to 8 months. This timeline includes HECO's review, the County building permit, installation, and final inspection, with delays often occurring during the utility review phase.
Battery storage is highly recommended, if not essential, in Waikoloa. It provides critical backup during power outages, which can occur due to grid instability or weather, and allows you to use your solar energy at night when HECO's grid-supply rates are highest. Look for a battery with sufficient capacity (kWh) for your essential loads and a reputable installer experienced with HECO's specific technical requirements.
Yes, Waikoloa Village is a master-planned community with a strong Architectural Review Committee (ARC). You must submit your solar system plans, including panel placement and conduit routing, for ARC approval before applying for a County building permit. Working with a local installer familiar with both ARC guidelines and Hawaii County's permit process is crucial for a smooth project.