Solar Panels in Rhode Island2026 Cost Guide & Incentives
Average cost, state incentives, payback estimates, and how to find certified installers in Rhode Island.
$18,000–$31,000
Avg system cost
$12,600–$21,700
After 30% ITC
4.3 hrs/day
Peak sun hours
$0.259/kWh
Avg rate
Is Solar Worth It in Rhode Island?
Based on a home with a $150/month electric bill in Rhode Island
Est. system size
4.1 kW
Gross cost
$11,814
Federal tax credit
−$3,544
Net cost
$8,270
Year-1 savings
$1,800
20-year savings
$45,911
Estimated payback: 4.6 years — then 15 years of free electricity.
* Estimates assume $2.90/W installed, 92% solar offset, and 3% annual electricity rate inflation. Get an installer quote to confirm your actual savings.
Rhode Island Solar Incentives & Policies
Federal
Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30%
of total system cost — off your federal tax bill
Available through 2032
Rhode Island State
State Incentive
Renewable Energy Growth (REG) program — guaranteed pricing for 15 years
Additional Rhode Island Solar Policies
Net Metering: Available — excess energy credited to your bill
Property Tax Exemption: Solar system value exempt from property taxes
Sales Tax Exemption: Solar equipment exempt from state sales tax
Solar Installation Cost in Rhode Island by System Size
| System size | Gross cost | After 30% ITC | Year-1 savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 kW | $12,272,800 | $8,590,960 | $1,869,902/yr |
| 7 kW | $17,181,920 | $12,027,344 | $2,617,863/yr |
| 9 kW | $22,091,040 | $15,463,728 | $3,365,824/yr |
| 12 kW | $29,454,720 | $20,618,304 | $4,487,766/yr |
* Costs based on $2.90/W national average. Rhode Island installer pricing may vary ±15%.
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Frequently Asked Questions — Solar in Rhode Island
How much do solar panels cost in Rhode Island?
Solar installation in Rhode Island typically costs $18,000–$31,000 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit, most homeowners pay $12,600–$21,700 net.
Is solar worth it in Rhode Island?
Yes — Rhode Island homeowners benefit from 4.3 average peak sun hours per day and relatively high electricity rates ($0.259/kWh). The 30% federal ITC combined with renewable energy growth (reg) program — guaranteed pricing for 15 years make the financial case strong for most homeowners.
What state incentives are available for solar in Rhode Island?
Renewable Energy Growth (REG) program — guaranteed pricing for 15 years. On top of state incentives, all Rhode Island homeowners qualify for the federal 30% Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Your solar system is also exempt from property tax assessment. Solar equipment is exempt from sales tax in ${s.name}.
How long is the payback period for solar in Rhode Island?
Based on Rhode Island's average electricity rate of $0.259/kWh and 4.3 peak sun hours, most homeowners see payback in 4.6–6 years. Systems then produce free electricity for 15–20+ more years.
Does Rhode Island have net metering?
Yes — Rhode Island has a net metering policy that credits your utility bill for excess electricity your system sends back to the grid. This significantly improves your ROI.