Electricity Rates in Hawaii (2026)
The average residential electricity rate in Hawaii is 39.0 cents/kWh, which is 144% above the national average of 16.0 cents/kWh. Higher electricity costs make solar panels an especially smart investment in Hawaii, as the savings are more significant.
Hawaii Average
39.0¢
per kWh
National Average
16.0¢
per kWh
Utility Companies in Hawaii
| Utility Provider | Avg Rate | Service Area |
|---|---|---|
| Hawaiian Electric (HECO) | 38.0¢/kWh | Oahu |
| Maui Electric (MECO) | 42.0¢/kWh | Maui, Molokai, Lanai |
| Hawaii Electric Light (HELCO) | 40.0¢/kWh | Big Island |
| Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC) | 37.0¢/kWh | Kauai |
Electricity Rate History in Hawaii
| Year | Avg Rate (cents/kWh) | Change |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 32.0¢ | -- |
| 2021 | 34.0¢ | +6.3% |
| 2022 | 37.0¢ | +8.8% |
| 2023 | 38.0¢ | +2.7% |
| 2024 | 39.0¢ | +2.6% |
| 2025 | 39.0¢ | 0.0% |
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) residential electricity rate data.
How Electricity Rates Affect Solar Savings in Hawaii
Your electricity rate directly determines how much you save with solar panels. Every kilowatt-hour your solar system produces offsets energy you would otherwise buy from the grid at 39.0 cents/kWh.
With Hawaii's above-average rates, solar panels provide exceptional value. Homeowners typically see faster payback periods and higher lifetime savings compared to states with lower electricity costs. A typical 6kW system in Hawaii can save you $65,000 over 25 years.
Hawaii's net metering policy allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, further enhancing your savings. This is especially valuable during summer months when your system produces more than you consume.
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