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Best solar companies in Rhode Island

We compared 58 brands and chose the top solar energy companies

    • Top overall
      Sunrun
      4.2(3,195)
    • Performance guarantee
      Palmetto Solar
      1.8(7)

    Best solar companies in Rhode Island

    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Our top 2 solar company picks for Rhode Island

    1. Our top pick overall: Sunrun
    2. Our pick for performance guarantee: Palmetto Solar

    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.

    Our top pick overall
    Sunrun
    Sunrun
    4.2
    3,195 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    22%
    Workmanship warranty
    10 years
    Year founded
    2007
    Get Started Read Reviews

    Sunrun gets overall positive feedback from Rhode Islanders. Priscilla in Middletown, Rhode Island, said it was easy to get started. “Plus, the installers that came out were very pleasant and professional,” she told us. Another customer, Valerie in Newport, Rhode Island, is extremely happy with the solar system — her electric bill was reduced to zero in the first month.

    We also like that its leasing program lets you go solar without the huge upfront investment. Sunrun technically owns your system, and you pay a fixed monthly fee to use it.

    A few negative reviews mention issues with communication, delays in installation and problems with the system not functioning properly. For instance, when James in Coventry, Rhode Island, had a water leak, it took the subcontractor and Sunrun weeks to fix his roof.

    You should be aware that roof leaks are a potential issue with almost any solar panel installation. (James did get his roof fixed; it just took longer than he thought it should.)

    Sunrun sells and leases customized residential solar energy systems and provides battery storage service in 20 states. Customers can own or lease a system with $0 down. It offers free energy consultations and quotes. About 900,000 homes across the U.S. have gone solar with Sunrun, according to the company.

    Sunrun services

    • Professional solar panel installation 
    • Solar storage battery options
    • EV charging solutions
    • Daily system monitoring

    The Sunrun warranty covers workmanship and equipment for 10 years. It also has a 95% system performance guarantee that lasts 25 years. Additional service coverage is available through Sunrun’s Protection Plus program. Leased systems typically come with free maintenance and repairs.

    Customers can pay for your system upfront or take out a loan, but Sunrun’s leasing plans are what really set it apart from other solar options.

    • Solar lease: There’s no initial charge for any solar equipment, installation or permits. You pay a monthly fee directly to Sunrun. Sunrun owns and maintains the system. Lease agreements typically last 25 years.
    • Solar loan: Financing is available for as little as $0 down. Payments are made to a third-party lender. You own and maintain the system.

    Pros

    • Flexible payment options
    • Custom solar designs
    • Comprehensive warranties
    • Daily system monitoring

    Cons

    • Some communication issues
    • Some billing issues
    Our pick for performance guarantee
    Palmetto Solar
    Palmetto Solar
    1.8
    7 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Workmanship warranty
    10 years
    Year founded
    2015
    Read Reviews

    Palmetto Solar is a company that connects Rhode Island homeowners with local solar panel installers. It guarantees that the premium all-black solar panels have efficiency ratings of 19.8% or higher.

    We like that an optional solar panel system protection plan, provided through a partnership with Omnidian, has a 95% performance guarantee. The plan also covers parts, labor and production losses.

    We haven’t talked to many verified Palmetto customers yet. Of the reviews on ConsumerAffairs, 66% are satisfied. One customer told us that reps exaggerated how much they could save going solar.

    Additionally, maintenance services are only included if you lease through Palmetto. Optional service plan upgrades are available for those who purchase or finance.

    Palmetto offers concierge-style service throughout the solar design, permitting, installation and inspection processes. You can get started with an in-person or virtual consultation. Once all permits are ready, reps schedule the solar panel installation at your home. Omnidian provides proactive monitoring and performance insights after installation is complete.

    Palmetto Solar services

    • Custom designs
    • Solar leases and loans
    • Ongoing system monitoring

    Palmetto’s Essentials warranty package covers panels for 25 years, inverters for 12 years, workmanship for 10 years and roof penetration for five years. The upgraded Protect Performance powered by Omnidian warranty includes everything in the Essentials plan, plus the performance guarantee and coverage for parts and labor.

    • Lease: You pay a low fixed rate for solar power generated by panels that Palmetto owns. Terms last 20 to 25 years, with a buyout option after the fifth year. Credit card fees may apply.
    • Loan: If approved, your annual percentage rate (APR) is between 4.49% and 11.99%, and terms are seven to 24 years. Additional financing fees may apply.
    • Cash: You pay in three installments. There is a deposit due at signing and the final payment is due when the system is activated. As of publishing, there is a 2.9% processing fee.

    Pros

    • Free consultations
    • 95% production guarantee (optional)
    • Active system monitoring
    • In-house project management

    Cons

    • Some communication issues
    • No in-house installers
    • Limited price transparency

    Solar Companies in Rhode Island Buyers Guide

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    In this guide

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      Rhode Island solar panel buyers guide

      If you've been thinking about going solar in Rhode Island but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you compare your options and get the best deal. Our team has talked to thousands of solar customers across the country — here’s what to expect and what to look out for.

      Key insights

      In Rhode Island, a typical residential solar panel system costs $11,480 to $32,800, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      The federal investment tax credit (ITC) is the most significant financial incentive for most homeowners buying solar panels in Rhode Island.

      Jump to insight

      It is important to choose a reputable company. Many Rhode Island residents have had positive experiences going solar, but some told us about issues with installation, communication and unresolved problems.

      Jump to insight

      Going solar in Rhode Island

      Watch out for solar scams. Last year, Rhode Island’s Attorney General took aim at a Providence-based installer, calling out deceptive practices. Though the company denies allegations, the case highlights real concerns about transparency, clear regulations and consumer protection in the saturated solar market.

      » GREENEST STATES: Rhode Island ranked 16th in 2024

      How do I choose a solar company in Rhode Island?

      In our experience, the best solar energy companies have a few things in common: great reviews, transparent contracts, reliable equipment, comprehensive warranties and NABCEP certifications.

      • Check certifications: Contractors need a couple of certifications before they can install solar panel systems: They must be a licensed general contractor as well as a licensed journeyman electrician. Rhode Island has an easy-to-navigate database where you can verify contractors by seeing who’s currently licensed. The site also details any enforcement actions that have been taken against those registered as solar panel contractors.
      • Read reviews: Research the company's track record and read reviews. Look for companies with plenty of experience installing solar panels in Rhode Island. It makes it easier to navigate regulations, permits and available financial incentives. Watch out for red flags: Complaints about misleading sales tactics, equipment failures, billing issues and lack of communication are common themes in negative solar company reviews.
      • Get quotes: Get multiple solar quotes to compare prices and services. Be cautious of companies that provide significantly lower estimates than others (this may indicate lower quality).
      • Ask questions: Consider whether you want a solar storage battery, electric vehicle (EV) charger or a monitoring system to ensure optimal output. It’s also smart to ask about critter guards in most parts of Rhode Island.
      • Read the fine print: Carefully review proposals and financials, understand legal considerations and ask about maintenance before signing an agreement with any solar company.

      » MORE: Best solar companies in Providence

      How much does it cost to go solar in Rhode Island?

      Average solar panel costs in Rhode Island typically range between $11,480 and $32,800.

      The size of your system and whether or not you need a storage battery are the biggest cost factors. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Rhode Island, the average cost per watt is $3.26.

      Average solar installation cost by system size in Rhode Island

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance instead. A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest.

      Solar panels are designed to last 25 to 30 years.

      Leasing solar equipment is an attractive option for people who don’t want to get a loan or be responsible for maintaining a system. In general, monthly lease payments can seem cheaper at first but add up over the long run, sometimes costing more than buying the system outright. Leasing also makes you ineligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit and can complicate home sales.

      Using a home equity line of credit or loan to finance a solar installation can be another option — home equity interest rates are relatively low, and homeowners can still take advantage of the federal solar investment tax credit.

      Solar incentives in Rhode Island

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is usually the most significant financial incentive for homeowners. It reduces your federal tax liability by 30% of the cost of your solar energy system. For example, if you spend $10,000 installing a solar panel system, the ITC is worth $3,000. If you owe $15,000 in taxes, the ITC reduces what you owe to $12,000.

      The ITC drops to 26% in 2033 and then 22% in 2034.

      Don’t get confused: The ITC is not a rebate or a refund. It is a credit that goes toward what you owe on federal income taxes. The ITC is a nonrefundable credit, meaning you can only claim up to the amount of taxes you owe. However, it can roll over to the next tax year if you don’t use the full amount in the year that your system becomes operational.

      On top of the federal ITC, residents can take advantage of additional solar incentives in Rhode Island:

      • Solar equipment is exempt from sales and property taxes.
      • The Renewable Energy Growth Program has a performance-based incentive for homeowners with solar panels.
      • You may qualify for grants to help pay for home solar energy systems.

      Are solar panels worth it in Rhode Island?

      With energy costs continuing to rise, more Rhode Island homeowners find solar power is financially worth it in the long run. The Ocean State has relatively high residential electricity rates. So, your savings go further compared with the national average.

      Like many residents, Elliott in Providence, Rhode Island, “was trying to lower my electric bill and help out the environment at the same time.” Since the installation was completed, everything has been running smoothly so far. Similarly, Nancy in Jamestown, Rhode Island, said her utility bill has “has been cut a lot” since making the switch.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      However, we’ve also heard about problems with leaks and roof damage caused by the installation of solar panels, leading to frustration and difficulties in getting repairs. As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar.

      We suggesting using the National Renewable Energy Laboratory's PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house — just type in your address. Project Sunroof is a free solar savings estimator powered by Google Earth imagery.

      As long as your house is a good candidate for solar, it’s worth considering in Rhode Island. On average, Rhode Islanders with solar panels can avoid $77,796 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      Do I have to get solar panels in Rhode Island?

      No. In April 2023, a state lawmaker proposed a bill that would have required rooftop solar on all new single-family homes, multi-family residential buildings and parking lots. It did not pass, but it has been sent for further study by legislators.

      Do I need any permits before going solar in Rhode Island?

      Yes. Rhode Island has streamlined the solar permitting process with a single, straightforward permit that applies to all solar panel projects across the state. While the state has made this process easier, obtaining a permit is crucial before beginning any residential or commercial solar project.

      How does net metering work in Rhode Island?

      Net metering lets Rhode Island homeowners get credits for extra electricity their solar panels generate. Solar panel systems up to 10 megawatts in size that are designed to produce up to 125% of your home's annual electricity use qualify for net metering.

      The goal of net metering is to let you produce enough renewable electricity for your own home's needs, but not drastically more than what you use. It's a billing mechanism that makes going solar more affordable. Here's how it works:

      1. Your utility company measures how much electricity your solar panels export to the grid. They also measure how much electricity you import from the grid.
      2. If your solar panels export more electricity than you imported in any month, you get a credit.
      3. That credit gets applied to your future electric bills to reduce the amount you owe.
      4. If you still have an excess credit at the end of the billing period, it rolls over to the next billing cycle.
      5. Any credits that are more than a year old will expire.
      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      Plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Rhode Island averages three to four peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home. It’s also smart to upgrade any old, inefficient appliances first. Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      Can I get free solar panels in Rhode Island?

      We are not aware of any legitimate programs for free solar panels in Rhode Island. However, you can lease a solar energy system with little to no upfront costs. Just look out for scams that promise free solar panels — they can cost you quite a bit of money.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      What’s the difference between a solar broker and a solar installer?

      A solar broker is a middleman or intermediary who helps connect homeowners with solar installation companies. A solar installer specializes in designing, procuring and installing solar panels and related components.

      Ultimately, deciding between a broker or solar installer depends on how much you want to be involved in the process. A broker can be helpful if you value convenience. If you want more control and potentially lower costs, working directly with a solar installer is best.

      What is the difference between a solar lease and a PPA?

      If you lease a solar system or enter a power purchase agreement (PPA), you don't own the panels, but you benefit from the cheap electricity they produce. The solar company that owns the system is responsible for maintaining it, so you don't have to worry about ongoing maintenance costs. The key difference is how you pay.

      • Lease: Entering a solar lease is basically renting a solar panel system. As with leasing a car, you pay a fixed amount every month over a set period of time, typically 25 years.
      • Power purchase agreement: With a PPA, you don't pay a fixed monthly price. You pay for the electricity the panels produce, usually at a fixed rate that’s lower than you would receive without a PPA.

      Methodology

      The Consumer Affairs Research Team used a research-backed, data-driven approach, which was informed by our expert editors, to choose the best solar companies. 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 Rhode Island 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: 10%
      We gave preference to companies that offer multiple payment and financing options for transparent terms and conditions.

      Reputation and local experience: 10%
      We prefer to recommend those with a longer time in business and a solid track record of reliability in Rhode Island. Solar is a booming industry, and there are some sketchy installers out there. Company history, current reputation, mission and values were also considered.

      Our goal is to highlight solar companies that are best equipped to meet most Rhode Islanders’s needs. The team regularly evaluates customer reviews, company information and industry trends to update our top picks:

      1. Sunrun
      2. Palmetto Solar
      Guide sources

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

      1. DSIRE, "Rhode Island Solar Programs.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
      2. EnergySage, "The cost of solar panels in Rhode Island.” Accessed March 29, 2024.
      3. Solar Energy Industries Association, "Rhode Island Solar." Accessed March 29, 2024.
      4. SolarReviews, "How much do solar panels cost in Rhode Island?" Accessed March 29, 2024.
      5. Interstate Renewable Energy Council, “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed May 22, 2024.
      6. Office of Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy, “Homeowner’s Guide to the Federal Tax Credit for Solar Photovoltaics.” Accessed Feb. 8, 2024.
      7. Providence Journal, “AG's office files new allegations against RI solar company. What it alleges.” Accessed July 9, 2024.
      8. RI Department of Labor and Training, “Renewable Energy Professional Certificate or Solar Thermal Professional Certificate.” Accessed July 9, 2024.
      9. State of Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, “Net Metering And Virtual Net Metering Overview.” Accessed July 9, 2024.

      Read more Rhode Island solar company reviews

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