Hawaii Electricity Information
Hawaii’s electricity generation is undergoing a major transformation. Historically dependent on imported oil, the state is rapidly shifting toward renewables like solar, wind, and geothermal. With abundant sunshine and strong trade winds, clean energy is expanding, and Hawaii aims to reach 100% renewable electricity by 2045.
Electricity prices in Hawaii are the highest in the U.S., mainly due to the cost of importing fuel. However, as renewable energy grows, prices are expected to stabilize. The state has made significant progress in reducing emissions by cutting back on oil use and increasing clean energy adoption. Hawaii’s transition to renewables is not just about affordability—it’s a step toward energy independence and sustainability.
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Ranks 47th Highest in the U.S.
Average Price: 40.96¢ /kWh
Ranks 51st Cheapest in the U.S.
Average Electric Bill: $236.76
Ranks 50th Cheapest in the U.S.
Electricity Production By Source
Emissions From Electricity Generation
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Renewable Electricity Generation
17.11% of Total Production
Municipal Utilities in Hawaii
While most cities, towns, and villages throughout the state of Hawaii offer municipal essential services like providing clean water, sewage treatment and dealing with waste and storm water, some also offer other services like electricity, natural gas, sanitation or recycling. In Hawaii, 0 cities offer municipal electricity utility services to their residents.
Largest Electric Companies in Hawaii
The rest of Hawaii receives electric utility service from one of many primary providers. Here’s a list of some of the larger providers that might be available to your home:
Hawaii Natural Gas Information
Hawaii does not have conventional natural gas resources, so the state relies on synthetic natural gas (SNG) produced on Oʻahu and propane delivered statewide. SNG from Hawaiʻi Gas already contains up to 15% hydrogen, and the utility plans to push that higher as it blends more renewable natural gas and green hydrogen into the mix. Only a small share of households use piped gas and nearly 45% of homes have no heating system, reflecting the islands’ mild climate. Hawaiʻi Gas serves on the order of tens of thousands of customers and reports about 3 Bcf of annual gas consumption, so gas is a niche but important complement to the electric system.
Largest Natural Gas Companies in Hawaii
Many of the residents of Hawaii receive their natural gas utility service from one of the larger companies that service the state.
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Hawaii Internet Connectivity
Largest Internet Providers in Hawaii
When it comes to high-speed internet, homes in Hawaii have plenty of options to stay connected! From bustling cities to quiet rural areas, a variety of providers offer reliable service across the state. Here are some of the biggest names keeping Hawaii homes online and in the loop:
Find Internet Providers In Hawaii
Hawaii Utilities: A General Guide for Residents
Living in Hawaii comes with unique utility considerations, from reading complex bills to preparing for island-specific weather events.
Understanding Your Bill
Hawaii residents pay some of the highest energy rates in the nation, largely because much of the state's fuel is imported. Here are key terms to help you decode your monthly statement:
- Fuel Cost Adjustment: This line item fluctuates monthly based on the global price of oil. It’s why your bill amount can change even if your usage stays the same.
- Customer Charge: A fixed monthly fee you pay for being connected to the grid, regardless of how much electricity you use.
- Therms vs. Gallons: If you have gas service (Hawaii Gas), "utility gas" (synthetic natural gas in Honolulu) is often billed in therms, while tank service is billed by gallons.
- Estimated Bills: If a meter reader cannot access your property (due to a locked gate or dog), you may receive an "Estimated Bill" based on past usage. Ensure your meter is accessible to avoid surprise "true-up" bills later.
Moving to Hawaii? Utility Setup Checklist
If you are moving inter-island or from the mainland, be aware that you often cannot just "switch" providers. Most islands have a single electric provider.
- Electricity:
- Oahu, Maui, Hawaii Island: Contact Hawaiian Electric. You can start service online.
- Kauai: Contact Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC).
- Water: Water is typically managed by the county. You must often apply in person or submit specific forms to the Board of Water Supply (Oahu) or the Department of Water Supply (Neighbor Islands).
- Internet: Major providers include Spectrum (cable) and Hawaiian Telcom (fiber/DSL). Service availability varies significantly by valley and neighborhood, so check specific addresses before signing a lease.
Energy Efficiency for the Tropical Climate
Air conditioning is the biggest power drain in Hawaii homes. Use these local tips to stay cool for less:
- Master the Trade Winds: Hawaii’s trade winds typically blow from the northeast. Open windows on opposite sides of your home to create a cross-breeze that pulls hot air out.
- Ceiling Fan Direction: Ensure your fans spin counter-clockwise to push cool air down.
- Solar Water Heating: This is one of the most effective upgrades in Hawaii. Since water heating is the second-largest expense for many homes, a solar system can reduce that portion of your bill by 80-90%.
- Time-of-Use Rates: Ask your utility about "Time-of-Use" (TOU) plans. If you can shift energy-heavy chores (like laundry or dishwashing) to daytime hours when solar energy is abundant on the grid (9 AM – 5 PM), you may pay a lower rate.
Disaster Preparedness & Utilities
In Hawaii, residents must be "2 Weeks Ready" for hurricanes or tsunamis. Utilities play a major role in your emergency kit:
- Water Storage: Store at least 1 gallon of water per person per day for 14 days.
- Gas Shut-Off: If you have gas service, keep a 12-inch adjustable wrench near your meter. Know how to turn the valve 1/4 turn to the "off" position if you smell gas after an earthquake.
- Power Outages: Have a battery backup for medical devices. If you have rooftop solar, remember that most standard solar systems shut off during a grid outage for safety unless you have a battery backup system (like a Tesla Powerwall).
Renter’s Rights & Responsibilities
- Shared Meters: In many "ohana units" (accessory dwelling units) or older multi-family homes, electricity or water may be on a single shared meter.
- Law: Landlords must explicitly disclose if a unit shares a utility meter before you sign the lease.
- Best Practice: Agree in writing on how the bill will be split (e.g., by headcount or a flat percentage) to avoid disputes later.
- Paying the Bill: Unless specified in the lease, tenants are generally responsible for opening their own utility accounts. However, water and sewer fees are frequently kept in the landlord's name and billed back to the tenant.
Going Solar?
Hawaii has aggressive renewable energy goals (100% renewable by 2045).
- Tax Credits: Hawaii offers a generous state tax credit (35% of system cost, up to $5,000) for solar PV systems, which can be combined with the 30% federal tax credit.
- Battery Bonuses: Because there is so much solar on the grid, utilities now offer incentives (like the "Bring Your Own Device" program) for homeowners who install batteries and agree to share stored energy with the grid during peak evening hours.
Utility Costs in Hawaii
The average monthly total utility bills in Hawaii is $532.96, which is 92.3% higher than the national average.
Assistance for Paying Utility Bills in Hawaii
With some of the highest energy costs in the nation, keeping up with utility bills can be a challenge for many Hawaii residents. Fortunately, there are several state, federal, and non-profit programs designed to help households maintain their service during financial hardships.
Statewide Government & Non-Profit Programs
Hawaii Home Energy Assistance Program (H-HEAP) Formerly known as LIHEAP, this federally funded program provides financial assistance to low-income households to offset energy costs. It is administered by various community action agencies across the islands. H-HEAP offers two main types of support:
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Energy Credit (EC): A one-time payment credited to your utility account to help with future bills. Applications are typically accepted in June.
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Energy Crisis Intervention (ECI): Emergency assistance available year-round for households facing immediate disconnection or termination of service.
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Apply Here: Visit the Hawaii Department of Human Services H-HEAP page for eligibility guidelines and a list of local agency contacts.
Hawaii Relief Program Administered by Catholic Charities Hawaii and Maui Economic Opportunity, Inc., this program provides support for housing and utility payments to families facing financial crisis, often due to unexpected events like unemployment or government shutdowns.
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Learn More: Visit Catholic Charities Hawaii to check current funding availability and application windows.
Low-Income Home Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) This program assists families with water and wastewater bills, helping to prevent disconnection or restore service after a shutoff. Priority is often given to households with the greatest need.
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Information: Details are available through the Department of Human Services.
Utility Company Assistance Programs
Most major utility providers in Hawaii offer their own assistance programs or payment arrangements.
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Hawaiian Electric (HECO, MECO, HELCO): Offers interest-free monthly installment plans to spread out past-due balances. They also facilitate the ‘Ohana Energy Gift Program, which allows friends and family to make payments directly to another customer’s account.
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Hawaii Gas: The Good Energy Gift Program allows community members to make payments toward a Hawaii Gas customer’s bill.
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Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC): Members can access the KEO Low Income Assistance Program and other emergency aid funds administered by Kauai Economic Opportunity.
Special Programs for Specific Groups
For Seniors (Kupuna)
Seniors on fixed incomes often have priority access to energy credits and specific charitable funds.
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Kupuna Rental Subsidy Program: Operated by the Council for Native Hawaiian Advancement, this program can sometimes assist eligible seniors (aged 62+) with rent and utility costs.
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The Salvation Army: Often provides emergency utility assistance specifically for seniors (ages 70+) through their various island corps.
For Veterans
Veterans may qualify for specific emergency grants or be categorically eligible for broader state assistance.
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Categorical Eligibility: Veterans receiving means-tested benefits often automatically meet income criteria for programs like LIHWAP.
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Office of Veterans’ Services: Can assist in connecting veterans with financial aid resources.
For Students
While many utility programs are household-based, students living off-campus may qualify if they meet income guidelines or receive specific financial aid.
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University of Hawaii Student Basic Needs: The UH system provides a directory of resources for students facing food and housing insecurity, including connections to financial aid for utilities.
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Pell Grant Recipients: Students who receive Federal Pell Grants are often eligible for internet subsidy programs (like the Affordable Connectivity Program’s successors) and may qualify for other low-income utility support.
Learn more in the Student Utility Setup Guide
Where to Apply by Island
To apply for H-HEAP and other government assistance, contact the Community Action Agency serving your island:
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Maui, Molokai, Lanai: Maui Economic Opportunity (MEO)
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Hawaii Island (Big Island): Hawaii County Economic Opportunity Council (HCEOC)
Find Utility Providers In Hawaii
Utility Providers by City in Hawaii
| City Name | Population | Municipal Electricity |
|---|---|---|
| Ahuimanu | 8,943 | No |
| Aiea | 9,527 | No |
| Ainaloa | 3,963 | No |
| Anahola | 2,787 | No |
| Captain Cook | 4,087 | No |
| East Honolulu | 50,076 | No |
| East Kapolei | 3,610 | No |
| Eleele | 2,329 | No |
| Ewa Beach | 14,614 | No |
| Ewa Gentry | 28,125 | No |
| Ewa Villages | 6,657 | No |
| Haiku-Pauwela | 9,347 | No |
| Halawa | 14,990 | No |
| Haleiwa | 4,651 | No |
| Hanamaulu | 4,435 | No |
| Hanapepe | 2,456 | No |
| Hauula | 3,869 | No |
| Hawaiian Acres | 3,093 | No |
| Hawaiian Beaches | 4,213 | No |
| Hawaiian Ocean View | 3,851 | No |
| Hawaiian Paradise Park | 11,942 | No |
| Heeia | 4,777 | No |
| Helemano | 3,404 | No |
| Hickam Housing | 10,022 | No |
| Hilo | 46,559 | No |
| Holualoa | 2,710 | No |
| Honaunau-Napoopoo | 2,538 | No |
| Honolulu | 835,291 | No |
| Iroquois Point | 5,737 | No |
| Kahaluu | 5,006 | No |
| Kahaluu-Keauhou | 7,236 | No |
| Kahuku | 2,371 | No |
| Kahului | 27,938 | No |
| Kailua | 106,260 | No |
| Kalaeloa | 2,808 | No |
| Kalaheo | 4,776 | No |
| Kaneohe | 34,509 | No |
| Kapaa | 11,516 | No |
| Kapaau | 2,044 | No |
| Kapolei | 23,248 | No |
| Kaunakakai | 3,263 | No |
| Kealakekua | 2,128 | No |
| Kekaha | 3,014 | No |
| Keokea | 2,645 | No |
| Kihei | 22,840 | No |
| Kilauea | 3,349 | No |
| Koloa | 2,348 | No |
| Kualapuu | 2,024 | No |
| Kula | 7,495 | No |
| Kurtistown | 3,115 | No |
| Lahaina | 13,261 | No |
| Laie | 6,436 | No |
| Lanai City | 3,079 | No |
| Lawai | 2,733 | No |
| Lihue | 8,371 | No |
| Maili | 13,245 | No |
| Makaha | 9,710 | No |
| Makakilo | 20,862 | No |
| Makawao | 7,670 | No |
| Maunawili | 2,071 | No |
| Mililani Mauka | 21,657 | No |
| Mililani Town | 27,974 | No |
| Mountain View | 3,467 | No |
| Nanakuli | 12,587 | No |
| Napili-Honokowai | 6,762 | No |
| Ocean Pointe | 16,676 | No |
| Orchidlands Estates | 2,749 | No |
| Pahala | 2,210 | No |
| Paia | 2,410 | No |
| Pearl City | 45,941 | No |
| Puhi | 4,154 | No |
| Pukalani | 7,315 | No |
| Pupukea | 4,416 | No |
| Royal Kunia | 14,390 | No |
| Schofield Barracks | 18,255 | No |
| Wahiawa | 17,357 | No |
| Waialua | 3,222 | No |
| Waianae | 14,152 | No |
| Waihee-Waiehu | 11,059 | No |
| Waikapu | 4,002 | No |
| Waikele | 7,495 | No |
| Waikoloa Village | 7,519 | No |
| Wailea | 6,546 | No |
| Wailua | 2,630 | No |
| Wailua Homesteads | 6,634 | No |
| Wailuku | 15,670 | No |
| Waimalu | 13,818 | No |
| Waimanalo | 5,371 | No |
| Waimanalo Beach | 4,389 | No |
| Waimea | 10,422 | No |
| Waipahu | 39,927 | No |
| Waipio | 10,989 | No |
| Waipio Acres | 5,618 | No |
| West Loch Estate | 6,239 | No |
| Wheeler AFB | 2,353 | No |
| Whitmore Village | 3,881 | No |
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.







