SunPowerPeek

Hawaii vs Mississippi Solar Comparison

Hawaii gets more sun (5.5 hrs/day) while Hawaii has the faster payback (4.8 years).Hawaii offers higher 20-year savings at $72,400.

Hawaii

5.5 hrs

4.8yr payback

$72,400

20yr savings

Mississippi

4.7 hrs

11yr payback

$27,200

20yr savings

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricHawaiiMississippi
Peak Sun Hours5.5 hrs4.7 hrs
Cost per Watt$3.50$3.00
6kW System Cost$21,000$18,000
Federal Tax Credit30%30%
State Tax Credit35%None
State Rebate$5,000None
Net MeteringFull Net MeteringPartial Net Metering
Electricity Rate43.18¢/kWh13.54¢/kWh
Payback Period4.8 years11 years
20-Year Savings$72,400$27,200

Verdict

Hawaii is the better state for solar ROI with $72,400 in 20-year savings and a 4.8-year payback period. Hawaii has more sun exposure at 5.5 hrs/day, making it ideal for maximum energy production. Both states qualify for the 30% federal solar tax credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is solar better in Hawaii or Mississippi?

Hawaii gets more sun (5.5 peak hours/day vs 4.7). Hawaii has a faster payback (4.8 years) and Hawaii offers higher 20-year savings ($72,400).

How do solar costs compare between Hawaii and Mississippi?

A 6kW system costs $21,000 in Hawaii vs $18,000 in Mississippi before incentives. Both qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.

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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA