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Best Solar Companies in Providence, Rhode Island

We compared 40 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunrun
      4.1(3,124)
    • Good customer service
      Freedom Solar Power
      4.5(287)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.8(174)

    Best Solar Companies in Providence, Rhode Island

    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +2 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Cassidy McCants
    Author picture
    Fact-checked by: Jon Bortin

    Our top 3 solar company picks for Providence

    1. Best overall: Sunrun
    2. Our pick for customer service: Freedom Solar Power
    3. Great for DIY projects: ShopSolar

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, equipment options, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us — this does not affect our evaluations but may impact the order in which companies appear. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    The best solar companies in Providence

    Solar can be a big investment. Our goal is to highlight companies that are best equipped to meet most Providence residents’ energy needs.

    Our top pick overall
    Sunrun
    Sunrun
    4.1
    3,124 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, lease
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    We’ve talked to more than 2,000 Sunrun customers. Over a recent two-year period, 77% were satisfied with their installations and 73% were satisfied with the technology. Many tell us about significant savings on electric bills and would highly recommend the company to others. We also like that its leasing program lets you go solar without a huge upfront investment.

    • “I was trying to lower my electric bill and help out the environment at the same time. Also, I got a lot of sun in my house and I wanted to take advantage of it so I looked into solar energy services. The person I talked to when I was enrolling with Sunrun was very nice and polite. This dealer explained everything to me, like how it would come and do the work. If it ever goes wrong and I hear strange noises coming from the equipment outside of the house, I could notify them and they would come right away and do what they have to do. So far, everything is going smoothly. I tried to be less attached to it as I can but I look up at it every now and then and make sure the panels are alright. I talked to a few other people and they were interested in it so I gave them the phone number of the fellow who came to me.” — Elliott in Providence

    Make sure you read the fine print carefully. Some customers have said they are not satisfied with the contract and terms.

    Sunrun specializes in residential solar systems with battery storage. Installers use monocrystalline panels from reputable manufacturers like LG.

    • Energy services: Sunrun designs and installs customized solar panel systems for homes and businesses. Technicians provide ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure optimal performance.
    • Warranty information: Sunrun provides a 10-year warranty on workmanship and equipment, roof leak protection and a 25-year performance guarantee.
    • Payment options: You can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but Sunrun leasing plans really set it apart. With leases, there’s no initial charge for panels, equipment, installation or permits. Sunrun owns the system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it. Contracts typically last 25 years and include free repairs.

    Pros

    • Reliable systems
    • Flexible payment options
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring

    Cons

    • Occasional installation delays
    • Some customer service complaints
    • Occasional billing issues
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    Freedom Solar Power
    Freedom Solar Power
    4.5
    287 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22.8%
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    We spoke with over 200 Freedom Solar customers nationwide. Over a recent two-year period, 92% were satisfied with the installation and setup, 94% were pleased with the price and 85% were happy with the customer service. They find the app helpful in tracking energy production post-installation.

    • “I made appointments with a couple of companies and ended up liking Freedom the best when I talked to them. The meeting was on the computer and I got all the information I wanted as if they had come here. I liked their presentation and they explained things better than the other companies. Then they came and did what they were supposed to do. Their installers were very quick with what they did. Everything went smoothly. I could go online and see what I'm producing. They send reports to my email as well. I am very satisfied. One of my neighbors is thinking about going solar and he's gonna call Freedom as one of the alternatives.” — Ron in Providence 

    Freedom Solar isn’t necessarily the cheapest option. We think the quality makes it worth it, but you might want to shop around and compare a few quotes.

    Freedom Solar installs American-designed solar panels and offers the Tesla Powerwall as a  reliable backup battery option.

    • Energy services: Freedom Solar designs and installs custom solar panel systems for homes, handling everything from site assessment and permitting to installation and activation. It offers various battery storage options, system maintenance and repairs to help homeowners optimize energy generation.
    • Warranty information: Freedom Solar Power offers a 25-year lifetime warranty on equipment and installations. System performance is guaranteed to remain between 84% and 92% of the original production for 25 years.
    • Payment options: You can pay upfront or secure a loan through one of their financing partners. Freedom does not currently offer solar leases.

    Pros

    • Excellent customer service
    • 24/7 performance monitoring
    • Transferable warranty
    • In-house, NABCEP-certified installers

    Cons

    • Somewhat limited availability
    • No in-house financing
    2x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service and Best for Installation
    2024 Buyers Choice Award Winner
    ShopSolar
    ShopSolar
    4.8
    174 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018
    Read Reviews

    ShopSolar has helpful reps, fast deliveries and a nice selection of equipment for DIY projects. You can find new and used solar panels, storage batteries, inverters and everything else for an off-grid or hybrid setup. We also like that it has free shipping on all solar kits, a price match guarantee and lifetime customer support.

    Some customers have told us about problems with damaged equipment. On the bright side, reps try to quickly resolve these issues with refunds or replacements. 

    » DIY SOLAR PANELS: Pros, cons and installation guide

    ShopSolar is an online retailer that stocks brands like Panasonic, REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow. Orders typically arrive within 10 business days.

    • Energy services: Reps can help you design a custom solar system based on your specific energy requirements. The company doesn't offer direct installation services, but online tutorials and video guides are available.
    • Warranty information: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by individual manufacturers’ warranties.
    • Payment options: ShopSolar accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, Venmo, Shop Pay and Diners Club International. It also partners with Affirm to offer financing options.

    Pros

    • Great for RVs and outbuildings
    • Price-match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support

    Cons

    • Some shipping and delivery delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products
    1x Award Winner
    Selected for having one of the highest satisfaction rates for Best Customer Service

    How we chose the best solar companies in Providence

    We took a data-driven approach, informed by expert editors and considering the humid continental climate, to choose the best solar companies in Providence, Rhode Island, based on the following key features and respective weightings:

    • Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%
    • Warranty terms: 20%
    • Equipment selection: 20%
    • Financing and payment options: 20%

    » MORE: Full methodology

    Solar Companies in Providence Buyers guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Sunrun logo
    Freedom Solar Power logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      Providence solar panel buyers guide

      We’ve talked to dozens of Rhode Islanders who have already gone through the solar panel installation process. Here’s what Providence residents should look out for when choosing a solar panel installation company. We’ll also touch on overall costs and ways to save with government incentives.

      Key insights

      A typical residential solar panel installation costs $28,064 in Providence.

      Jump to insight

      Solar loans, leases and other programs make it easy to go solar with minimal upfront costs.

      Jump to insight

      Solar scammers in Providence may falsely claim to be affiliated with a Providence County or Rhode Island government agency.

      Jump to insight

      Solar panel costs in Providence

      A typical solar panel installation costs anywhere from $11,480 to $32,800 in Rhode Island. Prices in Providence are comparable, ranging from $11,935 to $34,100.

      This doesn’t include an energy storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels: $7,000 to $18,000. A battery lets you store excess energy generated during the day and use it when your panels aren’t producing, like at night or during outages. It’s worth considering if your area gets frequent blackouts or if you don’t opt into Providence’s net metering program.

      System size is the other major solar cost factor. The average Providence household needs a system with a capacity of 8.23 kW (kilowatt) to fully offset their electricity costs. Depending on how much energy you and your family use, you might need a smaller or larger one.

      Average total solar installation costs by system size in Providence

      How can I pay for solar panels?

      A couple of local programs make it easier to pay for solar panels: Affordable Solar Access Pathways (ASAP) Program program provides discounted solar leases and includes energy efficiency upgrades at no additional cost. Renewable Energy Fund (REF) provide grants to support the installation of residential solar projects, which can be combined with net metering benefits.

      In general, solar loans work like any other type of loan. They have relatively low fixed interest rates. Once you pay it off, you own your system outright.

      Solar leases are a good option if you have limited savings and don’t want to take on debt. A potential downside to leasing is that you won’t be eligible for the federal solar tax credit. Similar to leasing, a power purchase agreement (PPA) lets you get the benefits of solar without actually owning the equipment.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Is solar worth it in Providence?

      Solar panels are generally worth it in Rhode Island if you like the idea of lowering your monthly utility bills. On average, Providence homeowners with solar panels can avoid $56,657 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Switching to solar is also worth considering for the environmental benefits. The main drawback is the high upfront cost of purchasing and installing the panels and equipment. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 2 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      We suggest using NREL’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house. Project Sunroof is a reliable online solar savings estimator.

      Potential roof problems

      As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This is an expensive and frustrating process.

      » SHOULD YOU: Replace your roof before going solar?

      How to find a reputable solar company in Providence

      In our experience, the best solar companies in Rhode Island have a few things in common: lots of experience, reliable equipment and transparent contracts. Watch out for door-to-door solar scams that attempt to gather your personal information, misleading claims, false advertising and aggressive sales tactics.

      • Check certifications: A State Electrical Contractor’s License, known as Certificate A, is required, along with an electrician’s license and a Journeyperson’s License, known as Certificate B, according to the State of Rhode Island’s Department of Labor and Training. We also recommend choosing an installer certified through the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP).
      • Read reviews: Avoid companies with recurring complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication.
      • Ask questions: Do you need a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or critter guards? How does this affect overall pricing? What if your system needs maintenance? If you don’t understand something about the payment terms, warranty or ongoing services, ask for clarification.

      » TIPS: Get the best solar quotes

      Going solar in Providence County

      If your home is in a historic district, your solar installation might need approval from the Historic District Commission (HDC). This usually involves submitting plans and ensuring the panels don't significantly alter the building's historic character.

      » BEST STATES FOR SOLAR: Rhode Island ranked 11th in 2024

      Residential solar panel incentives in Providence

      The 30% federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is still the best incentive for most homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of how much it costs to install solar panels. You can combine the ITC with local solar incentives in Rhode Island to maximize savings.

      For instance, Rhode Island offers several incentives to encourage residential solar energy adoption, including a 100% sales tax exemption on solar equipment. Residents can use the state's incentive calculator to learn more.

      Providence solar FAQ

      How does the federal solar tax credit work?

      The ITC is a credit, meaning it directly decreases the amount of taxes you owe. This is different from a deduction, which lowers your taxable income.

      For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $5,000 in taxes, the $3,000 credit reduces what you owe to $2,000. Any unused portion rolls over to the next tax year. However, it’s possible to get a refund check if the ITC credit reduces your taxes to the point where you overpaid during the year.

      Do I need any permits to install solar panels in Providence?

      Yes, all types of solar installations require a permit in Rhode Island. You or your installer can apply for a permit through the state’s Office of Energy Resources (OER).

      » GREENEST STATES: Rhode Island ranked 16th in 2024

      How does net metering work in Providence?

      Net metering lets you send excess power that your solar panels generate into your local power grid. In return, you can earn credits on future utility bills. These credits can then offset your bill when your solar panels don't produce as much energy, like on cloudy days or during Providence’s long, dark winters.

      To participate in National Grid’s net metering program, your solar system must be installed on your property and sized to meet your household's energy needs, based on a three-year average consumption. You can earn credits for up to 125% of your on-site energy consumption during a billing period.

      What are the different types of solar panels?

      Monocrystalline and polycrystalline are the most common types of solar panels used in residential installations. In general, monocrystalline panels are considered the best bang for your buck. Cheaper solar panels are typically polycrystalline. The key difference is in materials and efficiency: Monocrystalline panels use pure, single silicon crystals, while polycrystalline panels are made from melted silicon fragments, resulting in different efficiency levels.

      Solar panel efficiency is a measure of how well a panel makes electricity. Standard efficiency rates range from 19% to 23%, which means 19% to 23% of the sunlight that hits the panels gets converted into electricity. The more efficient the solar panels you buy are, the fewer panels you need. While more efficient panels cost a little more, you save by buying fewer panels.

      Can I get solar panels for free in Providence?

      We’re not aware of a totally free solar option in Providence. You can lease or enter a power purchase agreement with minimal upfront costs, but there is usually an ongoing monthly fee. In general, beware of deals that sound too good to be true.

      How does a power purchase agreement work?

      A third party installs and maintains solar panels on your property. You buy the power generated by the panels on a per kilowatt-hour (kWh) basis. It’s typically a fixed price, with a cheaper cents/kWh rate than traditional utilities have for the same amount of electricity.

      Methodology: How we chose the best solar companies in Providence

      The ConsumerAffairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Providence, Rhode Island. For this guide, we objectively weighted several key features to get our final rankings:

      Reviews, ratings and testimonials: 40%

      We analyzed solar company reviews by verified solar customers to gauge real-world satisfaction. Companies with generally positive feedback on our site scored highest in this aspect. Those with the most 4- and 5-star reviews by verified Providence customers were given preference.

      Warranties: 20%

      A long warranty is important — it shows that a company stands behind its products and services. We compared companies on both equipment and craftsmanship warranty terms. All of our top picks for professional installation have warranties or production guarantees of at least 10 to 25 years.

      Equipment selection: 20%

      We evaluated each company’s selection of solar panels, storage batteries and inverters. Those with proprietary technology or a wide equipment selection from trusted brands ranked highest.

      Financing and payment options: 20%

      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      ConsumerAffairs Research Team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Sunrun
      2. Freedom Solar Power
      3. ShopSolar

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide Sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:

        1. State of Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, “State and Federal Energy Incentives.” Accessed Nov. 14, 2024.
        2. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Providence, 2024." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Rhode Island Solar." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        4. DSIRE, "Rhode Island Programs." Accessed Oct. 17, 2024.
        5. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Rhode Island." Accessed March 29, 2024.
        6. Federal Trade Commission Consumer Advice, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Sept. 19, 2024.

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