Uses Hawaii GIS Solar Radiation Data

Solar Hot Water Savings Calculator

See how much you can save by switching to solar hot water — personalized for your zip code and household

Hawaii zip code — used to look up your area's solar radiation level

How This Calculator Works

Location-Specific Solar Data

Your zip code maps to Hawaii's GIS Solar Radiation database, which measures actual sunlight intensity (cal/cm²/day) at your location. Leeward areas get up to 525 cal while windward valleys get 325 cal — a 60% difference that dramatically affects SWH performance.

Household-Sized Estimates

Hot water usage scales with household size — roughly 4.5 kWh per person per day. We size the system and estimate savings based on your actual household, not generic averages.

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Real Incentives Included

Calculations include the Hawaii 35% state tax credit (up to $2,250) and the Hawaii Energy rebate (increased through June 2026). These can cut your net cost by 40-60%.

Long-Term Projection

25-year savings account for 3% annual electricity rate increases. With HECO rates already at $0.41/kWh and rising, solar hot water savings compound significantly over time.

Oahu Solar Radiation Zones

Solar hot water performance varies dramatically across Oahu. Leeward and south shore locations receive up to 60% more solar energy than windward valleys.

Zone Solar Radiation Rating Areas SWH Solar Fraction
10 500+ cal/cm²/day Excellent Ewa Beach, Kapolei, Pearl City, Kaimuki, Waikiki, Aiea 85%
8-9 450-500 Very Good Waipahu, Mililani, Haleiwa, Hawaii Kai, Kahala 78-82%
6-7 400-450 Good Kailua, Wahiawa, Manoa, Salt Lake 72-75%
4-5 350-400 Moderate Waimanalo, Laie, Kalihi Valley 65-68%
1-3 300-350 Below Average Kaneohe, Kaaawa, upper valleys 55-62%

Source: Hawaii State GIS Program Oahu Solar Radiation Map. Solar fraction = percentage of hot water demand met by solar.

Ready to Save on Water Heating?

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Next Steps

Solar Hot Water Installation

Our system options and process

SWH System Advisor

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Incentives & Tax Credits

Rebates, state credit, and more

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