Solar Panel Savings in Makakilo, HI

Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Makakilo, Hawaii. Based on 5.6 peak sun hours/day and 31.4¢/kWh average electricity rate.

5.6

Peak Sun Hours/Day

31.4¢

Avg Rate (¢/kWh)

3.9 yr

Payback Period

$105k

25-Year Savings

Makakilo Solar Overview

Population:19,843
Sunny Days/Year:278
Avg Temperature:80°F
Solar Penetration:7.1%
Utility Company:Hawaiian Electric
Net Metering:Available

Calculate Your Makakilo Solar Savings

3 kW15 kW

Makakilo average: $283/mo

South-facing roofs produce the most energy

Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup

Annual Production

9,811

kWh/year

Annual Savings

$3,081

per year

Net System Cost

$11,676

after 30% ITC

Payback Period

3.8 yr

break-even time

25-Year Total Savings

$105,240

Monthly Savings

$257

Federal Tax Credit

$5,004

Cumulative Savings vs System Cost

$0k$28k$55k$83k$111kYr 0Yr 5Yr 10Yr 15Yr 20Yr 25System CostBreak-even
Cumulative Savings System Cost

Cost Breakdown

ItemMakakiloNational Avg
Gross System Cost (6kW)$16,680$17,100
Federal Tax Credit (30%)-$5,004-$5,130
Net System Cost$11,676$11,970
Cost Per Watt$2.78/W$2.85/W

Solar Potential in Makakilo

Sun Hours vs National Average

5.6 hrs
4.5 hrs

Makakilo gets 24% more sun than the national average.

Climate Advantages

  • 278 sunny days per year
  • Average temperature: 80°F — hot climate boosts AC savings from solar
  • Average roof size: 1,553 sq ft — enough for a 86-panel system

Makakilo Solar Incentives & Programs

Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)

30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,680 system, that's a $5,004 credit. Valid through 2032.

Hawaii State Incentives

Green Energy Market Securitization (GEMS).

Net Metering — Hawaiian Electric

Hawaiian Electric offers net metering in Makakilo. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.

Environmental Impact in Makakilo

4.1

Tons CO2 Offset/Year

68

Equivalent Trees Planted

0.9

Homes Worth of Energy

Based on 9,811 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 Makakilo, Hawaii

Makakilo, Hawaii receives an average of 5.6 peak sun hours per day, placing it among the best cities in the country for solar energy production. With electricity rates averaging 31.4¢ 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 Makakilo produces approximately 9,811 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $3,081 annually. The system pays for itself in about 3.8 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 21+ years of the system's warranty life.

Makakilo has a solar penetration rate of 7.1% — showing growing adoption of residential solar, with significant room for expansion. The cost of living index of 171.4 (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 Makakilo, HI?

The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Makakilo is approximately $16,680 before incentives ($2.78/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,676. Green Energy Market Securitization (GEMS).

How many peak sun hours does Makakilo get?

Makakilo, HI receives an average of 5.6 peak sun hours per day and approximately 278 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 Makakilo?

The average solar payback period in Makakilo is approximately 3.9 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 $105,240.

Does Makakilo have net metering?

Yes, Makakilo 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 Makakilo, HI?

Absolutely. With a 3.9-year payback period and $105,240 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Makakilo. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.

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