Solar Panel Savings in Kailua-Kona, HI
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii. Based on 5.5 peak sun hours/day and 32.7¢/kWh average electricity rate.
5.5
Peak Sun Hours/Day
32.7¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
4.3 yr
Payback Period
$108k
25-Year Savings
Kailua-Kona Solar Overview
Calculate Your Kailua-Kona Solar Savings
Kailua-Kona average: $295/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$107,734
Monthly Savings
$263
Federal Tax Credit
$5,724
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Kailua-Kona | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $19,080 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,724 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $13,356 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.18/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Kailua-Kona
Sun Hours vs National Average
Kailua-Kona gets 22% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 269 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 79°F — hot climate boosts AC savings from solar
- Average roof size: 1,791 sq ft — enough for a 99-panel system
Kailua-Kona Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $19,080 system, that's a $5,724 credit. Valid through 2032.
Hawaii State Incentives
Green Energy Market Securitization (GEMS).
Net Metering — Hawaiian Electric
Hawaiian Electric offers net metering in Kailua-Kona. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Kailua-Kona
4.0
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
66
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.9
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 9,636 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii receives an average of 5.5 peak sun hours per day, placing it among the best cities in the country for solar energy production. With electricity rates averaging 32.7¢ per kWh from Hawaiian Electric, well above the national average of 16.63¢/kWh, solar panels offer exceptional savings potential.
A typical 6kW solar system in Kailua-Kona produces approximately 9,636 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $3,154 annually. The system pays for itself in about 4.2 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 21+ years of the system's warranty life.
Kailua-Kona has a solar penetration rate of 7% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 172.1 (national average: 100) means higher electricity costs, which amplifies solar savings.
Other Cities in Hawaii
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Kailua-Kona, HI?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Kailua-Kona is approximately $19,080 before incentives ($3.18/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $13,356. Green Energy Market Securitization (GEMS).
How many peak sun hours does Kailua-Kona get?
Kailua-Kona, HI receives an average of 5.5 peak sun hours per day and approximately 269 sunny days per year. This is above the national average of 4.5 hours, making it an excellent location for solar energy.
What is the solar payback period in Kailua-Kona?
The average solar payback period in Kailua-Kona is approximately 4.3 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $107,734.
Does Kailua-Kona have net metering?
Yes, Kailua-Kona has access to net metering through Hawaiian Electric. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Kailua-Kona, HI?
Absolutely. With a 4.3-year payback period and $107,734 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Kailua-Kona. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.