The Reap Grant
25% of Your Solar Project Paid For. (Yes, really.)
What is REAP?
REAP stands for the Rural Energy for America Program, and it was created by the USDA to support small businesses and agricultural producers in rural communities.
If your business is for-profit, located in rural areas of Hawaii, and you pay taxes—you likely qualify for a USDA REAP Grant that could cover up to 25% of your solar project’s cost.
This isn’t a tax credit. It’s not a deduction.
This is cash—a direct reimbursement check from the U.S. Government, specifically set aside for rural businesses like yours to invest in clean, renewable energy.
How Much Can You Get?
You can now cover up to 25% of your system cost! And that’s before you apply the:
- 30% Federal Solar Tax Credit
- 35% Hawaii State Tax Credit
- MACRS depreciation
All combined, it’s possible for many Maui business owners to have 100%+ of their project cost recovered within 1–2 years.
Timeline & Rounds
There are typically three funding rounds per year—with a competitive scoring process. Your application is ranked based on factors like:
- How quickly your system pays back
- Your location and project type
- Your funding match commitment
If you miss one round or don’t get selected, your application automatically rolls into the next.
Is This Worth It?
Let’s do the math:
A $200,000 solar system on your business could be reduced to:
- $150,000 with the REAP grant
- $60,000 with the federal tax credit
- $0–10,000 after Hawaii’s tax credit and depreciation
And again—that’s before you touch a single utility savings dollar.
This is not just a solar decision—it’s a financial decision.
** Include this somewhere on the page in a noticeable side section that draws your attention to it:
“If you qualify and don’t apply for REAP, you’re saying no to free money. Period.”
– Every smart CFO we’ve worked with
Can I track the performance of my workflows?
Yes, Optimizely includes robust tracking and analytics tools. These enable you to monitor your workflows’ performance in real time, measure efficiency, and identify areas for improvement, empowering you to make data-driven decisions to achieve better outcomes.
If you qualify and don’t apply for REAP, you’re saying no to free money. Period.
Why Choose Solar for Your Business? Here Are Some Reasons Solar Is A Must
Significant Tax Advantages
Installing solar panels in Hawaii offers significant financial advantages through various tax incentives. At the federal level, you can claim a 30% tax credit for the system’s cost and benefit from accelerated depreciation over five years. Additionally, the state of Hawaii provides its own substantial 35% tax credit, making solar a very smart financial investment.
Cash Flow Positive
Experience a positive cash flow from your solar investment in as little as two years. With immediate energy savings and low or no upfront costs through various financing options, many businesses see their solar systems paying for themselves quickly, boosting your financial performance and providing a rapid return on investment.
Flexible Financing Options
Purchase Own your solar system outright and enjoy immediate energy savings and long-term benefits. With full ownership, you maximize your return on investment and benefit from all available incentives.
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) Enter into a Power Purchase Agreement to install solar panels with no upfront costs. You only pay for the electricity generated by the system, typically at a lower rate than your current utility charges.
REAP Grant through USDA
The Rural Energy for America Program (REAP) can provide additional financial support. Grants from REAP can cover up to 50% of your solar project costs, further enhancing your savings.
Significant Cost Savings
Slash your energy bills by generating your own electricity. Solar energy can drastically reduce or even eliminate your monthly utility expenses, freeing up capital for other investments.

Why Wouldn’t You Consider Solar?
In Hawaii’s unique energy landscape, the benefits of commercial solar are undeniable. With substantial cost savings, energy independence, enhanced energy security, significant tax advantages, and the potential for positive cash flow in the first year, solar power is not just a smart choice—it’s a strategic advantage. Embrace the power of the sun and secure a brighter, more sustainable future for your business.