Solar Panels in Rhode Island
Small State, Big Solar Incentives
$1,300/yr
Avg. Annual Savings
4.5 peak hrs/day
Peak Sun Hours
6–9 years
Payback Period
$14,000–$22,000
Avg. System Cost
Overview
Is Solar Worth It in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island may be the smallest state in the country, but it has some of the strongest solar incentives in New England. With electricity rates averaging $0.24+/kWh — among the highest in the nation — every kilowatt-hour your solar panels produce delivers exceptional savings. Rhode Island's Distributed Generation program and strong net metering policy make it one of the most financially attractive states for residential solar in the Northeast.
Rhode Island homeowners also benefit from a property tax exemption and sales tax exemption on solar equipment, stacking on top of the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit for a compelling total incentive package.
Benefits
Why Go Solar in Rhode Island
Reduce Your Electric Bill
Rhode Island homeowners save an average of $1,300/yr after going solar.
Federal 30% Tax Credit
Deduct 30% of your total system cost from your federal income taxes.
Increase Home Value
Solar panels increase your home's resale value — and are excluded from property tax in most states.
Energy Independence
Lock in your electricity rate and protect against rising utility costs for 25+ years.
Available Incentives
Rhode Island Solar Incentives & Tax Credits
Distributed Generation (DG) Program
State ProgramRhode Island's DG program provides long-term contracts for residential solar owners, guaranteeing payments for excess electricity sent to the grid for up to 15 years.
Net Metering
Net MeteringNational Grid Rhode Island offers net metering at the full retail rate for residential solar systems, maximizing the value of your excess production.
Property Tax Exemption
Tax ExemptionRhode Island exempts the added value of solar installations from residential property tax assessments.
Sales Tax Exemption
Tax ExemptionRhode Island exempts solar energy equipment from the state's 7% sales tax.
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
Tax CreditThe federal 30% ITC applies to all Rhode Island homeowners who purchase their solar system.
Common Questions
Rhode Island Solar FAQ
Local Solar Companies
Solar Companies by City in Rhode Island
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