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  • Home Improvement
  • Solar
  • Best Solar Companies In Rhode Island

Best Solar Companies In Rhode Island

Audited & Verified: Aug 12, 2024, 10:31pm

Emily Glover Staff Writer
As a writer for Forbes Home since 2021, Emily specializes in writing about home warranties, solar installations, car transportation and moving companies. With a background in journalism and experience as a three-time homeowner, Emily uses deep resear...
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Emily Glover Staff Writer
As a writer for Forbes Home since 2021, Emily specializes in writing about home warranties, solar installations, car transportation and moving companies. With a background in journalism and experience as a three-time homeowner, Emily uses deep resear...
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Written By
Emily Glover
Emily Glover Staff Writer
As a writer for Forbes Home since 2021, Emily specializes in writing about home warranties, solar installations, car transportation and moving companies. With a background in journalism and experience as a three-time homeowner, Emily uses deep resear...
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Emily Glover Staff Writer
As a writer for Forbes Home since 2021, Emily specializes in writing about home warranties, solar installations, car transportation and moving companies. With a background in journalism and experience as a three-time homeowner, Emily uses deep resear...
See Full Bio See Full Bio
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Staff Writer
Kelly Weimert Contributor
Kelly has over 10 years of experience writing about home design and improvement for many prominent publications. She also spent several years working at a tech startup for an interior design game where she contributed her expertise on home trends. Sh...
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Kelly Weimert Contributor
Kelly has over 10 years of experience writing about home design and improvement for many prominent publications. She also spent several years working at a tech startup for an interior design game where she contributed her expertise on home trends. Sh...
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Written By
Kelly Weimert
Kelly Weimert Contributor
Kelly has over 10 years of experience writing about home design and improvement for many prominent publications. She also spent several years working at a tech startup for an interior design game where she contributed her expertise on home trends. Sh...
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Kelly Weimert Contributor
Kelly has over 10 years of experience writing about home design and improvement for many prominent publications. She also spent several years working at a tech startup for an interior design game where she contributed her expertise on home trends. Sh...
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Contributor
Lowe Larretta Saddler Former Staff Editor
Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers such as Hunker, First Media and Ranker and has multip...
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Lowe Larretta Saddler Former Staff Editor
Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers such as Hunker, First Media and Ranker and has multip...
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Lowe Larretta Saddler
Lowe Larretta Saddler Former Staff Editor
Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers such as Hunker, First Media and Ranker and has multip...
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Lowe Larretta Saddler Former Staff Editor
Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers such as Hunker, First Media and Ranker and has multip...
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Reviewed By

| Former Staff Editor
& 2 others
Audited & Verified: Aug 12, 2024, 10:31pm
We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Home. Commissions do not affect our editors' opinions or evaluations.

Rhode Island has some of the highest electricity rates in the country, so investing in a solar panel system can yield significant savings when it comes to your energy bills. In fact, many systems pay from themselves in the state in around eight years. Rhode Island also has many incentives that can make going solar more affordable, but it’s still a pricey investment so you want to make sure you choose the best solar company for the job. Use this guide to learn about the best solar companies in Rhode Island based on factors like price, availability and customer support.

Why you can trust Forbes Home

The Forbes Home team is committed to bringing you independent, unbiased ratings and information. We use data and expert advice to inform all of our content. Plus, our advisory board of licensed professionals fact-checks and reviews our content for accuracy and relevancy. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and the solar companies methodology for the ratings below.

  • 26 companies reviewed
  • 58 different attributes scored
  • Editorially fact-checked and reviewed
Show More
Solar Guides
  • Best Solar Panels
  • Best Solar Companies
  • Best Solar Companies In California
  • Best Solar Companies In Texas
  • Best Solar Companies In Florida
  • Best Solar Companies In Arizona
  • Best Solar Companies In New Jersey
{{ showSummarySection ? 'Hide Summary' : 'Show Summary' }}
  • Key Takeaways
  • Rhode Island Top Solar Panel Installation Companies
  • Compare the Best Solar Companies in Rhode Island
  • SunPower
  • Tesla
  • Palmetto Solar
  • Sol Power
  • Trinity Solar
  • How to Find the Best Rhode Island Solar Company for You
  • What to Consider When Choosing a Solar Installer
  • How Much Does Solar Installation Cost in Rhode Island?
  • Solar Incentives in Rhode Island
  • Are Solar Panels Worth It in Rhode Island?
  • Rhode Island Solar Trends
  • Methodology: How We Rated Solar Companies in Rhode Island
  • Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Featured Partners

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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.

1

Momentum Solar

BBB Grade

A+

Financing Options

Purchase, loan

Number of States Covered

10

1

Momentum Solar

Get Started

From Participating Partners

2

Blue Raven Solar

BBB

A+

Financing Options

$0 upfront for 18 months

Number of States Covered

21

2

Blue Raven Solar

Get Started

From Participating Partners

Key Takeaways

  • Based on our research, the best solar companies in Rhode Island are SunPower, Tesla and Palmetto Solar.
  • The average cost of solar panels in Rhode Island is $15,774 before the 30% federal tax credit.
  • When asked in the Forbes solar survey how likely they were to recommend solar installations to others, 46% of residents in the Northeastern U.S., including Rhode Island, said very likely.

Rhode Island Top Solar Panel Installation Companies

Rhode Island residents looking to go solar can currently benefit from federal and state-based incentives. And, despite the state’s size, there are a number of highly qualified companies that install solar panels in Rhode Island.

  • SunPower: Best Overall
  • Tesla: Best Availability
  • Palmetto Solar: Best Solar Equipment
  • Sol Power: Best Local Company
  • Trinity Solar: Notable for Years in Business

The solar installers SunPower, Tesla and Sol Power top our list of the best solar companies in Rhode Island. SunPower scored 4.8 out of 5 when reviewed against our methodology, thanks in part to the company’s experience, financing options and product offerings. Tesla also scored high with a 4.6 out of 5. Sol Power is a local employee-owned cooperative and stands out by offering highly personalized service.


Compare the Best Solar Companies in Rhode Island

We compared the ratings and costs of Rhode Island solar panel companies after completing our research and analysis across criteria including product variety, customer reviews, product variety, financing options, warranty details and more.

SunPower
SunPower
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.8
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase or lease with zero down payment
States Covered
50
Tesla
Tesla
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.6
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase or loan (select areas)
States Covered
50*
Palmetto Solar
Palmetto Solar
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.2
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase, lease, loan and PPA
States Covered
19
Sol Power
Sol Power
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.0
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Mobile App
No
Financing Options
Purchase and loan
States Covered
1
Trinity Solar
Trinity Solar
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.0
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase, loan and PPA
States Covered
9
COMPANY FORBES HOME RATING MOBILE APP FINANCING OPTIONS STATES COVERED LEARN MORE
SunPower
SunPower
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.8
Yes
Purchase or lease with zero down payment
50
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Tesla
Tesla
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.6
Yes
Purchase or loan (select areas)
50*
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Palmetto Solar
Palmetto Solar
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.2
Yes
Purchase, lease, loan and PPA
19
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Sol Power
Sol Power
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.0
No
Purchase and loan
1
Get Started
From Participating Partners
Trinity Solar
Trinity Solar
Forbes Home Desktop Logo Forbes Home Mobile Logo
4.0
Yes
Purchase, loan and PPA
9
Get Started
From Participating Partners

Best Overall

SunPower

Get Started
From Participating Partners
4.8
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase or lease with zero down payment
Number of States Covered
50
4.8
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Overall

SunPower

Mobile App
Yes

Financing Options
Purchase or lease with zero down payment

Number of States Covered
50

Get Started
From Participating Partners

NOTE: While SunPower made our 2024 ranking, the company announced in July 2024 that it will be ramping down residential sales past July. All facts and figures were correct at the time of ranking.

SunPower was founded in 1985 and it holds over 1,000 patents for its various solar innovations. The company also uses energy-efficient manufacturing techniques and eco-friendly materials when possible, further demonstrating its commitment to a more sustainable future.

Why We Picked It

With widespread coverage and a range of high-efficiency products, SunPower earned a score of 4.8 out of 5 when weighed against our metrics. Depending on your needs, it could be good or bad that SunPower only sells its own products. Although the starting prices are higher, we count this as an advantage as the equipment boasts some of the best efficiency rates in the industry—reaching nearly 23% efficiency using the company’s Maxeon® cell technology.

Why We Like It
SunPower backs up its products and installation with a generous 25-year warranty, which covers material defects and workmanship. This includes repairs, reimbursements and replacements for covered panels.

What We Don’t Like
SunPower’s products come at premium prices. There are also mixed reviews from some past customers about their experiences with communications throughout the process. The company also doesn’t offer as many financing options as some other competitors on this list.

Who It’s Best For
If you are willing to make the bigger investment in SunPower’s product, it can pay off more quickly through the improved efficiency rates and the long-term warranty comes with additional peace of mind.

Learn more: SunPower Review

Pros & Cons
  • Available in all 50 states
  • Flexible financing options
  • 25-year warranty
  • Pricier than some competitors
  • Won’t install panels from third-party brands
Services and Payment Options

SunPower offers several solar panels, SunVault storage, solar cell technology and helix storage solutions. The company also offers a fully integrated rooftop solar system called SunPower OneRoof. Customers can pay for their system outright or lease it with zero down payment.

SunPower Reviews and Experiences

SunPower has received praise from customers for the appearance of its solar panels, which feature an InvisiMount mounting system that gives them a subtle, streamlined look. Customers also commend the company for its knowledgeable installation technicians. However, a few customers report problems and delays when trying to address unforeseen issues.

Best Availability

Tesla

Get Started
From Participating Partners
4.6
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase or loan (select areas)
Number of States Covered
50 (coverage varies by zip code)
4.6
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Availability

Tesla

Mobile App
Yes

Financing Options
Purchase or loan (select areas)

Number of States Covered
50 (coverage varies by zip code)

Get Started
From Participating Partners

In addition to its popular cars, Tesla sells two solar panel lines. Dubbed the S Series and the H Series, both reach around 20% efficiency and have skirted edges that help the panels blend into the roofline. The company also offers solar roof tiles, but they’re less efficient than the panels at around 14% or 15% efficiency.

Why We Picked It

Tesla’s score came back at an impressive 4.6 out of 5 when evaluated against our methodology. Factors that contributed to Tesla’s score include the company’s array of products, which include solar inverters and the industry’s best solar battery. Tesla also offers price matching, which is a big perk.

Why We Like It
Tesla solar products are sleek, low-profile and highly efficient—edging close to 20% efficiency. Plus, the company offers excellent solar inverters and a solar battery. After installation, the products can be monitored 24/7 through an easy app.

What We Don’t Like
Tesla’s warranty plans are not as robust as other companies on this list. Past customers have also voiced concerns with the communication process, especially as Tesla products are installed by third-party companies.

Who It’s Best For
With innovative designs and a price-match guarantee, Tesla is a worthy contender for anyone who is interested in striking a good balance between quality and prices.

Learn more: Tesla Solar Review

Pros & Cons
  • Offers solar roofs
  • Low-profile solar panels
  • Transparent online pricing
  • Installations always done by third party
  • Mixed customer reviews
Services and Payment Options

Tesla offers solar roofs, batteries and panels, in addition to an app with 24/7 system performance monitoring. Customers can pay for their system using a solar loan or by purchasing the full system upfront. Existing Tesla customers also have the option to pay via a power purchase agreement (PPA) or solar lease.

Tesla Reviews and Experiences

Tesla customers report satisfaction with the appearance of their solar panels as well as the energy efficiency. Several customers also praise the company for its price-match guarantee. However, a few customers report long wait times for installations and difficulty with getting answers to customer service questions.

Best Solar Equipment

Palmetto Solar

Get Started
From Participating Partners
4.2
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase, lease, loan and PPA
Number of States Covered
19
4.2
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Solar Equipment

Palmetto Solar

Mobile App
Yes

Financing Options
Purchase, lease, loan and PPA

Number of States Covered
19

Get Started
From Participating Partners

Palmetto Solar has an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, which is a testament to its quality solar services. The company offers custom solar panels, inverters and microinverters. It also offers several different ways to finance a solar panel system, making it more affordable and accessible for many customers.

Why We Picked It

Based on our methodology, Palmetto Solar earned 4.2 out of 5 for its selection of high-efficiency solar equipment. The company also offers customers a variety of financing options, including full purchase, loans, leases and power purchase agreements (PPAs).

Why We Like It
Palmetto Solar is backed by strong reviews from past customers, many of whom speak to the company’s selection of solar panels. Whereas some companies restrict customers to their own product, Palmetto’s variety is attractive.

What We Don’t Like
After installation, Palmetto Solar charges a monthly fee for professional monitoring services. Although the company offers a comprehensive warranty with a 95% performance guarantee and labor coverage, this is also an upcharge.

Who It’s Best For
If you don’t want to be limited to a specific brand of solar products, Palmetto Solar offers a selection of highly efficient options across a number of manufacturers. These include Qcell, VSun and JA Solar.

Learn more: Palmetto Solar Review

Pros & Cons
  • Variety of high-efficiency solar equipment
  • Multiple financing options
  • Positive customer reviews
  • Not available nationwide
  • Additional fees for comprehensive warranties
Services and Payment Options

Palmetto offers several types of solar panels, including Qcell silicon crystalline panels with an efficiency rating that falls between 20% and 22%. The company also offers panels from top manufacturers, like VSun and JA Solar, each with efficiency ratings above 19%. Additionally, customers can pay an extra $8 per month to use Palmetto’s app and professional monitoring services.

Available financing options including full purchase, leases, loans and PPAs.

Palmetto Solar Reviews and Experiences

Palmetto Solar stands out for its many positive reviews across online review platforms. The company receives much praise for its strong communication skills and efficient installation process. However, a select few customers report that they felt misled by sales representatives in terms of benefits and savings offered by the company.

Best Local Company

Sol Power

Get Started
From Participating Partners
4.0
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Mobile App
No
Financing Options
Purchase and loan
Number of States Covered
1
4.0
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Best Local Company

Sol Power

Mobile App
No

Financing Options
Purchase and loan

Number of States Covered
1

Get Started
From Participating Partners

We recommend Sol Power for customers seeking the personalized experience of a local company that understands the region’s needs. Founded in 2013, the company is an employee-owned cooperative that offers custom-designed solar panel and backup battery solutions for commercial, residential and off-grid needs.

Why We Picked It

Based on our methodology, Sol Power earned 4.5 out of 5 stars. This strong score was bolstered in party by the company’s local expertise and commitment to customizing solar solutions.

Why We Like It
Sol Power stands out by being an employee-owned cooperative. This grants employees vested interests in the company, which also keeps them committed to customer satisfaction—and this translates to great customer reviews.

What We Don’t Like
Relative to other companies we evaluated, Sol Power is less experienced. There is also minimal information on the website, which can be a point of frustration for potential customers who want details without needing a full consultation.

Who It’s Best For
Sol Solar impresses with its local, customer-first approach to doing business. As a cooperative rather than corporation, the employees value customer satisfaction—which can be very helpful when you’re the one asking questions about solar panel installations.

Pros & Cons
  • Regional expertise
  • Employee-owned
  • Personalized service
  • Relatively young company
  • Limited financing options
Services and Payment Options

Sol Power offers off-grid, residential and commercial solar panel installations. The company also sells generators and backup batteries. Customers can pay for solar panels out of pocket or by taking out a loan.

Sol Power Reviews and Experiences

Despite being a small company, Sol Power has nearly all positive reviews across online review platforms like Google and Yelp. Customers praise the company for its professional and knowledgeable technicians and timely installations. Customers also compliment it on its high-quality workmanship and local expertise.

Notable for Years in Business

Trinity Solar

Get Started
From Participating Partners
4.0
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.
Mobile App
Yes
Financing Options
Purchase, loan and PPA
Number of States Covered
9
4.0
Forbes Home Improvement
All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Notable for Years in Business

Trinity Solar

Mobile App
Yes

Financing Options
Purchase, loan and PPA

Number of States Covered
9

Get Started
From Participating Partners

Founded in 1994 as a heating and cooling company, Trinity Solar began installing solar panels in 2004, so it has several decades of experience in the industry. The company specializes in Q-Cell solar panels, which have an efficiency rating between 21% and 23%, but it can also accommodate customers who want to use a different brand.

Why We Picked It

Trinity Solar earned a 4.0 out of 5 based on our methodology, thanks in part to the company’s years in business, solid customer reviews, A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and more.

Why We Like It
In business for three decades, Trinity Solar has a solid foundation in Rhode Island. The company also gives customers more choices regarding products than other companies on this list.

What We Don’t Like
Although some of Trinity Solar’s equipment warranties reach up to 25 years, the company only provides a five-year workmanship warranty. Pricing information is also hard to come by without getting in contact with someone from the company.

Who It’s Best For
Trinity Solar is a local company that comes with some helpful financing options, which is relatively rare. Rhode Island residents may also be familiar with the company’s background as a heating and cooling company, which earned Trinity a good local reputation.

Pros & Cons
  • 20 years of solar experience
  • Multiple financing options
  • No pricing information online
  • Five-year workmanship warranty
  • Not available nationwide
Services and Payment Options

Trinity Solar offers Q-Cell solar panel installations, SolarEdge inverters, Enphase microinverters and Tesla and Generac batteries. However, customers can request that the company installs other brands of these products and in most cases it can accommodate them. Customers can pay for their installation outright or use a loan or PPA.

Trinity Solar Reviews and Experiences

Trinity Solar has received positive reviews from customers on its smooth installations and knowledgeable representatives. The company also receives praise for its reliability and responsiveness when it comes to solving problems. However, a few customers report delays in system installations.

How to Find the Best Rhode Island Solar Company for You

The average cost of a 6-kW solar panel system in Rhode Island is $13,419 after applying the federal tax credit, making it a sizable investment. That’s why it’s important to find the right company for the job. When trying to decide which solar panel installation company in Rhode Island is best for you, here are some key factors to consider:

  • Local expertise: Opt for companies with a strong presence in Rhode Island, as they’ll better understand the state’s specific solar needs and regulations.
  • Warranty and guarantees: Look for companies that offer robust warranties, which can help support your investment for decades.
  • Product range: A diverse product offering allows for customization, ensuring your system is tailored to your specific property and energy consumption patterns.
  • Customer reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials. Past customers’ experiences can provide valuable insights into a company’s professionalism and service quality.
  • Certifications and licenses: Ensure the company has necessary certifications, like NABCEP standards and relevant state licenses. This indicates adherence to industry best practices.
  • Financing options: Whether it’s cash purchases, loans, leases or PPAs, the right financing option can make solar installation more affordable and accessible.
  • Post-installation support: Even after solar panels are activated, it can help to have assistance with production monitoring, maintenance and more. Consider what services a provider offers after installation.
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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.
Seeking To Go Green? Consider Equipping Your Home With Solar Panels

What to Consider When Choosing a Solar Installer

Solar installers differ by price, reputation, experience and more, so make sure to consider the following factors before committing to a solar company so you can find a quality installer for your needs.

  • Installers reputation: Research the company’s reputation, looking up online reviews from third-party sites, like Google and Yelp, to learn about firsthand experiences from real customers. It’s also a good idea to check the company’s BBB rating and ask about any references or testimonials they can share.
  • Solar system size: The right size solar energy system depends on your household’s size and energy use. A reputable company should offer a thorough evaluation of your energy needs and recommend a system size that aligns with it.
  • Additional system components: Ask prospective companies about any additional components that might be necessary or helpful to meet your solar energy needs, such as inverters, solar batteries and monitoring systems. A good installer can recommend options from reputable brands and explain the benefits and drawbacks of various options.
  • Warranty and guarantees: Most high-quality solar installers offer warranties on their installations. Coverage varies by company, but many companies offer 25-year warranties on workmanship, covering parts, labor and needed repairs. Some companies also offer performance guarantees on their panels that ensure they perform at a certain efficiency. Make sure to inquire about any warranties and guarantees from each prospective company.
  • Solar financing and payment options: Some solar companies offer a variety of financing options that can make solar more accessible, such as loans, leases and PPAs. If you’d prefer not to pay the full price up front, ask prospective companies about their options for payment.
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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.

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How Much Does Solar Installation Cost in Rhode Island?

Nationally, the average 6 kW solar system’s gross cost ranges from $14,600 to $21,700 before any incentives or rebates. After accounting for the federal tax credit and state incentives (including the sales tax exemption), the net cost for an average-sized solar system in Rhode Island could be reduced to less than $15,000. For the most accurate and up-to-date pricing, it’s recommended to get quotes from multiple local solar installers in Rhode Island.


Solar Incentives in Rhode Island

Like many states, Rhode Island offers a range of incentives to promote the adoption of solar energy. These incentives not only make solar installations more affordable but also enhance the return on investment for homeowners.

Tax Credits

Rhode Island waives all sales tax on photovoltaic (PV) equipment, including panels, inverters, batteries and more. This one-time exemption, applied when purchasing the system, can result in average savings of $1,192 in the state.

Rhode Island homeowners can also tap into the Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). By taking advantage of this federal incentive, solar users in Rhode Island can deduct 26% to 30% of the cost of installing a solar system from their federal taxes.

Net Metering

In Rhode Island, if your solar panels produce more electricity than your home uses, that excess energy is sent back to the grid—this is known as net metering. You’ll then receive a credit on your electricity bill for this contribution. Rhode Island also offers Virtual Net Metering, which applies even if the solar system isn’t on the customer’s property. The benefit is ongoing and varies based on system size, monthly energy bills and energy consumption.

Other State-Specific Incentives

Beyond tax credits and net metering, Rhode Island offers additional incentives to promote solar energy:

  • Rhode Island Renewable Energy Fund (REF) grants: Available for renewable energy projects based on the proposed system’s size, type, and value
  • Rhode Island Renewable Energy Growth (REG) program: Allows customers to sell the excess energy generated by their solar panels back to the grid at fixed prices for 15-20 years
  • Rhode Island Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) Financing: Allows participants to secure a solar loan with manageable monthly payments added to their property tax bill
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THIS IS AN ADVERTISEMENT AND NOT EDITORIAL CONTENT. Please note that we do receive compensation for any products you buy or sign up to via this advertisement, and that compensation impacts the ranking and placement of any offers listed herein. We do not present information about every offer available. The information and savings numbers depicted above are for demonstration purposes only, and your results may vary.

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Are Solar Panels Worth It in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has some of the highest electricity costs in the country, so going solar can save you quite a bit of money on your long-term energy bills. For instance, people in Rhode Island typically pay 31.78 ¢ per kWh compared to people in North Dakota (where costs are low) who pay around 11.66 ¢ per kWh on average.

The state also has quite a few incentives and programs that can make going solar more affordable, such as net metering and C-PACE financing. These benefits make going solar a worthwhile investment for many homeowners in Rhode Island.

Rhode Island Solar Savings: Calculating the Break Even Point

The average payback period for solar panels in Rhode Island is around 8 years, which is well below the 12-year national average.

RHODE ISLAND SOLAR SAVINGS
Average Cost of 6kW Solar System w/Installation
$15,774
Rhode Island Incentives (30%)
$4,732
Estimated System Cost (inc. Incentives)
$11,042
Break Even Period
8 years
20-Year Savings
$30,873
25-Year Savings
$34,519
*Based on energy costs within the location/state all data is estimated, calculations assume all electricity usage is covered by solar energy and the cost of XX ¢/kWh within Rhode Island


Rhode Island Solar Trends

Forbes Home surveyed 1,000 homeowners, looking at consumer trends and satisfaction results as they pertain to solar energy systems.

  • 46% of homeowners in the Northeastern U.S. said they’d be very likely to recommend installing solar panels to others based on their experience
  • 92% Northeastern U.S. residents said they are considering installing a solar system in the future
  • 39% of homeowners in the Northeastern U.S. said they installed solar panels to increase their home’s value
  • 11% of homeowners in the Northeastern U.S. said their energy bills decreased a little to a lot since installing solar panels

These findings offer a complete view of solar trends and drivers.

Best Solar Companies By State

  • Alabama
  • Alaska
  • Arizona
  • Arkansas
  • California
  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Delaware
  • Florida
  • Georgia
  • Hawaii
  • Idaho
  • Illinois
  • Indiana
  • Iowa
  • Kansas
  • Kentucky
  • Louisiana
  • Maine
  • Maryland
  • Massachusetts
  • Michigan
  • Missouri
  • Montana
  • Nebraska
  • Nevada
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • New York
  • North Carolina
  • North Dakota
  • Ohio
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Rhode Island
  • South Carolina
  • South Dakota
  • Tennessee
  • Texas
  • Utah
  • Vermont
  • Virginia
  • Washington
  • West Virginia
  • Wisconsin
  • Wyoming

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Explore Options


Methodology: How We Rated Solar Companies in Rhode Island

To determine the best solar company ranking, the Forbes Home editorial team analyzed 26 major companies, with each company’s star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics, including years in business, equipment options, app and customer reviews and support, nationwide availability, price and warranty, product specifications and features.

All figures and facts were accurate at the time of first publication.

You can find out more about how Forbes Home rates solar companies in our detailed methodology page.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Will solar increase your home value in Rhode Island?

Yes, in many cases solar panels increase your home’s value as the savings they yield are major draws for many prospective buyers.

What is the average cost for solar panels in Rhode Island?

Solar panels in Rhode Island typically cost around $11,042 for a 6-kW system after applying the federal tax credit. They cost around $15,774 before the tax credit.

Is Rhode Island a good place for solar panels?

Yes, Rhode Island is a favorable location for solar panels. While it doesn’t receive as much sunlight as some southwestern states, Rhode Island still averages enough sunny days per year to generate a significant amount of solar energy. Considering the above-average electricity costs in Rhode Island, solar panels are an excellent way for homeowners to save money long-term especially because the average pay-back period in Rhode Island is just eight years.

What size of solar system do I need?

The size you need depends on your solar energy goals as well as your household’s size and energy consumption needs, but many people in Rhode Island benefit from having a 6-kW system.

Read More

  • Best Solar Companies
  • Best Solar Panels
  • Cost of Solar Panels
  • How To Install Solar Panels
  • How Do Solar Panels Work?
Information provided on Forbes Home is for educational purposes only. The products and services we review may not be right for your individual circumstances.

Forbes Home adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.

Emily Glover
Emily Glover Staff Writer

As a writer for Forbes Home since 2021, Emily specializes in writing about home warranties, solar installations, car transportation and moving companies. With a background in journalism and experience as a three-time homeowner, Emily uses deep research and insights to cover a variety of topics.

Kelly Weimert
Kelly Weimert Contributor

Kelly has over 10 years of experience writing about home design and improvement for many prominent publications. She also spent several years working at a tech startup for an interior design game where she contributed her expertise on home trends. She loves helping folks improve their homes by sharing her design and home improvement knowledge.

Lowe Larretta Saddler
Lowe Larretta Saddler Former Staff Editor

Lowe Larretta is former lead editor for Forbes Home, covering all things related to home improvement and good design. She previously worked in the decor and lifestyle spaces for digital publishers such as Hunker, First Media and Ranker and has multiple years of experience creating design and DIY content.

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