Understanding Energy in Hawaii
Hawaii has the highest electricity rates of any US state — up to three times the national average — due to its near-total reliance on imported oil for power generation. Rooftop solar adoption is the highest per capita in the nation. Hawaii mandates 100% renewable electricity by 2045.
Hawaii has a regulated electricity market. Your utility is the only electricity provider in your area, but rates are reviewed and approved by the state's public utility commission to ensure they are fair and reasonable.
The state's primary electric utilities include Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), Maui Electric, Hawaii Electric Light (HELCO), Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC). Natural gas distribution is handled by The Gas Company of Hawaii (propane/LNG). Hawaii's climate — tropical, warm and sunny year-round — is one of the main drivers of annual energy consumption patterns for households.
Electric Utilities in Hawaii
The following utilities operate in Hawaii. Your specific provider depends on your address.
- Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO)
- Maui Electric
- Hawaii Electric Light (HELCO)
- Kauai Island Utility Cooperative (KIUC)
Natural Gas Utilities in Hawaii
- The Gas Company of Hawaii (propane/LNG)
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Energy Assistance Programs in Hawaii
Low-income households and those facing energy emergencies may qualify for these programs:
- Hawaii LIHEAP
- Weatherization Assistance Program Hawaii
- Green Energy Money $aver (GEMS)
- Hawaii Energy Efficiency Program
Energy Saving Tips for Hawaii Residents
These tips are tailored to Hawaii's climate — tropical, warm and sunny year-round:
- San Diego and Phoenix get 300+ sunny days — solar panels pay back in 5-7 years.
- Install solar with battery storage for resilience against rate spikes and outages.
- SDG&E's NEM (Net Energy Metering) policy compensates you for excess solar generation.
- Shift high-usage activities to midday when solar is generating maximum power.
- Install exterior window shading to reduce solar heat gain without blocking light.
- Use a solar water heater — it reduces water heating costs by up to 80%.
- Explore SDG&E's EV TOU rate for overnight vehicle charging at reduced rates.
Gas & Electricity Rates by City in Hawaii
Select a city to view local utility rates, providers, and energy programs.
All Cities & Towns in Hawaii
Gas and electricity information for all 94 cities and towns in Hawaii. Jump to a letter or browse the full list.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Hawaii Energy
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The average residential electricity rate in Hawaii is approximately 52.00¢/kWh, compared to the national average of around 16¢/kWh. The average monthly electricity bill is $250.
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The average residential natural gas rate in Hawaii is approximately $5.33/therm per therm. The typical monthly gas bill is $52, though this varies significantly by season.
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The primary electric utilities serving Hawaii include Hawaiian Electric Company (HECO), Maui Electric, Hawaii Electric Light (HELCO). The right utility for you depends on your specific address.
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No — Hawaii has a regulated electricity market, meaning your utility is determined by your location.
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Hawaii residents may qualify for several assistance programs including Hawaii LIHEAP, Weatherization Assistance Program Hawaii. Contact your utility or the state energy office for eligibility details.
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To reduce your energy bills in Hawaii: schedule a free energy audit through your utility, check for state weatherization assistance, upgrade to LED lighting, and optimize your thermostat settings. Ask your utility about budget billing to smooth out seasonal costs.