Solar Installer Career Guide in Hawaii
Explore solar installer salary, licensing requirements, training pathways, apprenticeships, job outlook, and career opportunities in Hawaii.
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How to Become a Solar Installer in Hawaii
Solar-specific coursework and electrical programs are available through the University of Hawaii community colleges. Entry routes also include paid solar-installer positions and registered electrical apprenticeships; the latter provide a pathway toward licensed PV electrical work.
Note: Training pathways vary by employer, program sponsor, and licensing category. Classroom education may provide useful technical preparation, but it does not automatically replace supervised work experience unless the applicable licensing authority specifically allows that credit.
Solar Installer Salary in Hawaii
The salary figure shown on this page represents the Hawaii median wage for solar installer workers, based on U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational wage data. A median wage is the point at which half of workers earn more and half earn less. It is not a guaranteed starting salary.
Actual earnings may vary by experience, license level, metropolitan area, employer, industry, overtime, and union agreement.
Compared with the national median of $51,860, the median wage in Hawaii is approximately $18,510 higher. This comparison does not account for differences in cost of living.
Licensing Authority for Solar Installers in Hawaii
Note: Licensing rules, fees, examinations, exemptions, and renewal requirements may change. Applicants should verify current requirements directly with the authority listed above before beginning work, applying for an examination, or enrolling in a training program.
CAREER PREPARATIONSolar Installer Training Requirements in Hawaii
Solar installers should learn fall protection, electrical safety, PV components, mounting methods, and applicable electrical codes. Hawaii’s licensing requirements depend on the task performed.
- Complete relevant solar PV or electrical training and obtain job-site safety training.
- Gain supervised installation experience through a solar employer or electrical apprenticeship.
- Use a licensed journey worker or supervising electrician for PV bonding, grounding, electrical wiring, and meter connections.
- Confirm contractor classification, permits, and inspection requirements with the applicable county before beginning a project.
Solar Installer Training Providers in Hawaii
| Provider | City | Program Website |
|---|---|---|
| Kauai Community College — Solar Energy Technology Certificate | Lihue | View Program |
| Honolulu Community College — Electrical Installation and Maintenance Technology | Honolulu | View Program |
| Hawaii Community College — Electrical Installation and Maintenance Technology | Hilo | View Program |
| University of Hawaii Maui College — Renewable Energy Certificate | Kahului | View Program |
Note: Program availability, admission requirements, tuition, and credit toward licensing requirements may change. Verify current details directly with the provider and the applicable state licensing authority before enrolling. Listings are informational and do not constitute rankings or endorsements.
PAID TRAINING OPPORTUNITIESSolar Installer Apprenticeship Programs in Hawaii
Wireperson Apprenticeship — includes PV electrical systems
Organization: Hawaii Electricians Training Fund / IBEW Local 1186
Solar Installer Licensing Requirements in Hawaii
Hawaii does not issue one general license for every solar-panel installation task. A licensed journey worker or supervising electrician must perform PV bonding, grounding, electrical wiring, and the connection to the meter. Non-electrical panel transport and certain mounting work do not require that electrician license.
EMPLOYMENT PROJECTIONSSolar Installer Job Outlook in Hawaii
Employment of solar photovoltaic installers in Hawaii is projected to grow 39% from 2024 to 2034, with approximately 50 job openings per year.
Note: State employment projections may use a different base period from national BLS projections. Projected growth is an estimate rather than a guarantee of employment, and local demand may vary by metropolitan area, industry, construction activity, and employer investment.
CAREER QUESTIONSFrequently Asked Questions
What is the solar installer salary in Hawaii?
The statewide median wage for solar installers in Hawaii is approximately $70,370 per year, or $33.83 per hour, based on May 2024 occupational wage data. Actual earnings vary by experience, license level, location, employer, overtime, and industry.
Does Hawaii require solar installer licensing?
Licensing requirements for solar installer workers in Hawaii vary by work scope, license category, and jurisdiction. Applicants should verify current requirements with Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers before beginning work or applying for an examination.
How long does it take to become a solar installer in Hawaii?
The time required depends on the license pathway and training program. A typical training pathway takes approximately Up to 1 Year, although licensing, apprenticeship, and employer requirements may differ.
Are solar installers in demand in Hawaii?
Hawaii projects solar installer employment to grow by approximately 39% from 2024 to 2034, with about 50 openings per year. Projections include both new positions and openings created when workers leave the occupation.
Career Data Sources
State wage, employment outlook, and licensing information is reviewed using government and official regulatory sources. Data and requirements may change after publication.
- May 2024 State Occupational Employment and Wage Estimates — U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. May 2024 State OEWS
- Hawaii Wages for Solar Installer (SOC 47-2231) — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Hawaii Solar Installer Wages
- Hawaii Solar Installer Employment Trends — O*NET OnLine, U.S. Department of Labor. Hawaii Solar Installer Employment Trends
- Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers — Licensing authority. Hawaii Board of Electricians and Plumbers