Solar Panel Cost in Honolulu, HI

Estimated costs and savings for ZIP code 96814 — updated for 2026

Urgent tax credit deadlines

  • Section 48E phase-out completes December 31, 2027 — projects must be placed in service by then (469 days left).
See the full deadline tracker

Gross Cost

$21,700

7kW system

Annual Savings

$6,776

$565/month

Payback Period

3.2 yrs

Break-even

Peak Sun Hours

6

hrs/day avg

Solar System Cost Breakdown — Honolulu, HI

Estimated costs and savings for different residential solar system sizes in ZIP 96814. Costs based on HI average of $3.10/W and utility rate of $0.52/kWh.

SystemCostSavings/yrPayback
4 kW$12,400$3,8723.2 yrs
5 kW$15,500$4,8403.2 yrs
6 kW$18,600$5,8083.2 yrs
7 kW(typical)$21,700$6,7763.2 yrs
8 kW$24,800$7,7443.2 yrs
10 kW$31,000$9,6803.2 yrs

Solar Production in Honolulu, Hawaii

Average Peak Sun Hours

6 hours/day

Excellent solar resource — among the best in the US

Est. Annual Production (7kW)

13,031 kWh

Based on 6 PSH × 7kW × 365 days × 85% efficiency

Average Utility Rate

$0.52/kWh

High utility rates make solar especially valuable

Cost Per Watt in HI

$3.10/W

Near national average for installed cost

Solar Panel FAQ — Honolulu, HI

How much do solar panels cost in Honolulu, HI?
A typical 7kW solar system in Honolulu, HI (ZIP 96814) costs approximately $21,700 before any incentives. This works out to about $3.10 per watt installed. Smaller systems start around $12,400, while larger 10kW systems can cost up to $31,000.
How long is the solar payback period in Honolulu?
The average solar payback period in Honolulu, HI is approximately 3.2 years for a 7kW system. With estimated annual savings of $6,776, the system pays for itself and then generates free electricity for the remaining 15-20+ years of its lifespan.
How much can I save with solar panels in 96814?
Homeowners in Honolulu, HI (ZIP 96814) can save approximately $565 per month or $6,776 per year with a standard 7kW solar system. Over 25 years, total savings can exceed $169,400, depending on utility rate increases.
How many peak sun hours does Honolulu get?
Honolulu, HI receives an average of 6 peak sun hours per day. This is above the national average, making solar highly effective in this area.
What size solar system do I need for my home in Honolulu?
The average home in Honolulu, HI needs a 7kW solar system to offset their electricity usage. The exact size depends on your monthly electric bill, roof orientation, and available space. A 7kW system would produce approximately 13,031 kWh annually in ZIP 96814.

Looking for another area? Browse all ZIP codes →

Written & reviewed by

EnergyTools Research Team — Solar Energy Research Group

The EnergyTools Research Team compiles and verifies residential solar data from NREL, EPA, and state utility commissions. Methodology is reviewed quarterly.

  • Source data: NREL PVWatts V8 + Utility Rates V3 APIs
  • Source data: EPA FuelEconomy.gov vehicle efficiency data
  • Methodology reviewed quarterly

Methodology & data sources:NREL PVWatts, EPA FuelEconomy.gov, state utility commissions— updated 2026.