Solar incentives in Hawaii
Federal tax credits, Hawaii rebates, utility programs, and Customer Self-Supply / Smart Export (no NEM) net metering - everything that lowers your solar payback.
Incentives & rebates
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Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (Section 25D) - ENDED
The 30% federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (IRC Section 25D) expired for property placed in service after December 31, 2025, under the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. Hawaii homeowners who purchased and installed by year-end 2025 can still claim it on their 2025 return; cash and loan purchases in 2026 receive no federal tax credit. This makes the Hawaii state RETITC the primary tax incentive for 2026 cash buyers.
Federal Commercial ITC (Section 48E) - via Lease / PPA
Section 48E (the commercial Clean Electricity Investment Credit) survives at 30% and is still available to third-party owners of residential systems under solar leases, PPAs, and similar TPO structures. The TPO company claims the credit and typically passes savings through to the homeowner. To qualify, projects must begin construction by July 4, 2026; otherwise they must be placed in service by December 31, 2027.
Hawaii Renewable Energy Technologies Income Tax Credit (RETITC, HRS §235-12.5)
Hawaii state income tax credit equal to 35% of the cost of a residential solar PV system, capped at $5,000 per 5 kW system. The credit has no scheduled repeal. Taxpayers can either carry forward unused credit indefinitely, or elect to reduce the credit by 30% in exchange for the credit becoming refundable in the year claimed.
Hawaiian Electric Bring Your Own Device Plus (BYOD+)
Hawaiian Electric's BYOD Plus pays an upfront incentive of $400 per kW of committed battery capacity (no maximum cap), plus monthly export credits for energy sent to the grid during a customer-selected two-hour window each day. Low- and moderate-income households receive a doubled $800/kW incentive. Requires a 5-year participation commitment and a battery paired with rooftop solar. Replaces the now-closed Battery Bonus program.
Net metering: Customer Self-Supply / Smart Export (no NEM)
TODO-CONTENT-HI-NEM - Hawaii has transitioned from net metering to a new export model. Verify current policy and export compensation with your utility.
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