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Commercial and Utility Scale Solar + Storage
Hawaii Solar + Battery Supplier

Founded in 2008, EcoDirect is a value added distributor that can help installers, do-it-yourselfers (DIY), homeowners, businesses and commercial projects on the Big Island, Maui, Lanai, Molokai, Oahu and Kauai with project design, supply, logistics and technical support.


Looking for commercial or industrial sizing & design assistance?

The best way to get started is to fill out our commercial project intake form. Our team will then reach out to schedule an introductory call to learn more about the project goals, timelines, and discuss potential incentives and rebates.
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Hawaiian Renewable Energy Incentives

Hawaii offers a variety of federal, state, and county government incentives and grants to encourage homeowners and commercial businesses to install solar panels and battery storage systems. At the federal level, the Investment Tax Credit (ITC) provides a 30% tax credit for solar energy systems, including battery storage. This credit can significantly reduce the upfront costs of solar installations, making it more affordable for residents and businesses to invest in renewable energy. Additionally, the Solar for All program, funded by the Inflation Reduction Act, offers grants to states, territories, and eligible nonprofits to expand solar access in low-income and disadvantaged communities.

At the state level, Hawaii provides the Hawaii State Tax Credit, which offers a tax credit of up to 35% of the cost of installing solar energy systems, including battery storage. This incentive is designed to complement the federal ITC, further reducing the financial burden on homeowners and businesses. The state also supports the Green Energy Money aver(GEM) On-Bill Program, which provides financing for energy efficiency and solar systems. This program allows participants to repay the financing through their utility bills, making it a convenient and accessible option for many.

County-level incentives in Hawaii vary, but many counties offer additional support for solar energy projects. For example, the City and County of Honolulu provides expedited permitting processes for solar installations, reducing the time and cost associated with getting projects approved. Some counties also offer property tax exemptions for renewable energy systems, further incentivizing the adoption of solar technology. These local initiatives are crucial in making solar energy more accessible and affordable for residents and businesses across Hawaii.

Eligibility requirements for these incentives and grants vary depending on the specific program. For the federal ITC, applicants must install qualifying solar energy systems and meet certain technical standards. The Hawaii State Tax Credit requires that systems be installed by licensed contractors and meet specific performance criteria. The GEM$ On-Bill Program is available to homeowners, renters, small business owners, nonprofit organizations, commercial tenants, and state agencies, with eligibility based on the ability to repay the financing through utility bills. County-level incentives often have their own specific requirements, such as residency or property ownership within the county. It’s essential for applicants to review the specific eligibility criteria and application processes for each incentive program to maximize their chances of approval.

In Hawaii, several cities and regions have become popular for installing solar panels and battery storage systems due to their unique characteristics and the incentives available. Honolulu, the state capital and largest city, leads the way in solar installations. The high electricity costs and abundant sunshine make solar energy an attractive option for both residential and commercial properties. Additionally, Honolulu’s government has streamlined the permitting process for solar installations, making it easier and faster for residents and businesses to adopt solar technology.

The Hawaiian Electric Grid

The Hawaiian electric grid is unique to the United States due to its isolated nature and reliance on imported fossil fuels, which results in some of the highest electricity costs in the Country. The grid is managed by Hawaiian Electric, which serves 95% of the state’s residents across Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island, Lanai, and Molokai. Given the state’s commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy by 2045, integrating renewable energy sources like solar and wind is crucial. However, the intermittent nature of these sources poses operational challenges, making it essential to pair them with battery storage systems1.

Solar and battery storage are vital for Hawaii’s energy future because they help stabilize the grid and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Solar panels generate electricity during the day, and battery storage systems store excess energy for use during peak demand periods or when solar production is low. This not only ensures a more reliable and resilient energy supply but also helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and energy costs. Programs like Hawaiian Electric’s Battery Bonus incentivize the adoption of battery storage, further supporting the state’s renewable energy goals.