The average residential electricity rate in Hawaii (HI) is $0.3989 per kWh as of April 2026, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is among the highest in the nation of $0.1805/kWh, ranking Hawaii #51 out of 51 (all 50 states plus Washington DC), where #1 is the cheapest and #51 is the most expensive. The average Hawaii household consumes 499 kWh per month, resulting in a monthly electric bill of approximately $199 and annual electricity costs of about $2,388.
Hawaii set a goal of 100% renewable electricity by 2045. Kauai Island already generates 70%+ from renewables. Solar payback on Oahu is typically 3-5 years.
This comprehensive guide covers Hawaii electricity rates, historical trends, utility providers, bill calculation, solar savings potential, and actionable tips to reduce your electric bill. All rate data is sourced from the US EIA and updated monthly. Use our electricity cost calculator for personalized estimates.
Hawaii residential electricity rates have increased 22% over the past six years. The table below shows the trajectory compared against the national average.
| Year | Hawaii ($/kWh) | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $0.3276 | $0.1322 | +148% |
| 2022 | $0.3980 | $0.1492 | +167% |
| 2024 | $0.4020 | $0.1680 | +139% |
| Apr 2026 | $0.3989 | $0.1805 | +121% |
Hawaii has a regulated electricity market. The primary providers are: Hawaiian Electric (HECO), Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC), Maui Electric.
Hawaii generates electricity from: Petroleum 58%, Solar 18%, Wind 12%, Geothermal 3%, Other 9%.
Your monthly electric bill = kWh Used × Rate per kWh. The average Hawaii household uses 499 kWh/month.
Hawaii has the highest electricity rates in the nation due to imported petroleum. Rooftop solar is extremely popular, with over 35% of homes having solar panels. Battery storage is essential under the current program.
Universal strategies: adjust thermostat 2-3 degrees (saves 5-10% on HVAC), switch to LEDs (see our LED savings calculator), unplug phantom loads (saves $100-200/year), and run major appliances during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing. For larger investments, consider a heat pump, better insulation, or a smart thermostat.
Hawaii receives 5.5 peak sun hours/day. A 6 kW system produces ~9,877 kWh/year, saving ~$3,940/year. With the 30% federal ITC, payback is typically 4-6 years. Use our solar panel calculator and solar ROI calculator for personalized estimates.
Due to geographic isolation, direct state comparisons are less applicable. See the national comparison below.
Data source: US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Electric Power Monthly, April 2026. Rates shown are average residential rates and may differ from your specific utility tariff. Solar estimates assume a 6 kW system with 82% efficiency factor. Always verify current rates with your utility provider.