Top 5 Best Solar Companies in Rhode Island (2023 Reviews)

In this guide to Rhode Islands’ best solar companies, we’ll answer your questions including:

  • What are our top picks for solar companies in Rhode Island?
  • What should you look for when choosing a Rhode Island solar provider?
  • How do you find cost savings on Rhode Island solar installation?
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What Are Rhode Island’s Top 5 Solar Energy Companies?

Rhode Island sees an average of 202 sunny days a year — the national average is 205 days — making solar a worthwhile investment for homeowners in the Ocean State. But despite making huge gains in solar installations in the past decade, Rhode Island fell to 29th place for new solar installations in 2022, down from 24th in 2021.1

Below, we list the top five solar companies that we believe are helping Rhode Island regain its solar power rank and reach ambitious renewable energy goals in the next decade. Our list of solar installers is specific to Rhode Island homeowners, and we cover the pros and cons of each company’s solar panel quality, warranties offered, financing options and more.

Note that because Rhode Island is a small and densely populated state, there aren’t many solar companies dedicated to serving just Rhode Island — most offer clean energy throughout New England.

Below you will find our reviews of the best solar panel companies in Rhode Island. If you’re ready to get connected to one of these installers, click the buttons below.

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SunPower

Best National Provider

Nationwide Service

EcoWatch rating

Average cost

Read full review now

Pros

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer
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Green Power Energy

Outstanding Regional Installer

Regional Service

EcoWatch rating

Average cost

Pros

  • Educational, no-pressure sales approach
  • Outstanding customer service
  • Multitude of products and services

Cons

  • Relatively young company
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Summit Energy

Outstanding Regional Installer

Regional Service

EcoWatch rating

Average cost

Pros

  • Great warranty coverage
  • NABCEP-certified technicians
  • Many financing options

Cons

  • Relatively young company
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Trinity Solar

Solar Veteran

Regional Service

EcoWatch rating

Average cost

Pros

  • Many financing options
  • Family-owned and -operated
  • Makes charitable contributions
  • Relatively short workmanship warranty

Cons

  • Limited service area
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Sol Power

Outstanding Local Installer

Local Service

EcoWatch rating

Average cost

Pros

  • Excellent reputation
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Locally owned and operated

Cons

  • Slightly limited service offerings
  • No leases or PPAs

How to Save Money When Hiring a Solar Company in Rhode Island

Taking the time to compare quotes, ask questions and find local solar incentives are the best ways Rhode Islanders can save money on solar panels. We also recommend paying for your solar panels in cash when possible. Below are some tips on how to save money when looking for a solar company in Rhode Island.

Find Local and Federal Incentives and Rebates

Rhode Island has progressive state policies and plenty of local rebates that you can take advantage of. As a homeowner, you’re also eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit. We’ve listed the top solar incentives in Rhode Island below, but you can also talk with your solar contractor about how to apply and qualify for each.

Rhode Island Solar Incentive Description
Federal Solar Tax Credit (ITC) The federal solar investment tax credit, or ITC, allows homeowners to claim 30% of their system costs as a credit against the federal taxes they owe. The credit has been extended through 2034 under the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022. However, the credit will decrease to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034 before it expires in 2035.
Net Energy Metering (NEM) Through net metering programs, any extra energy your solar energy system produces is sent to the grid in exchange for utility company credits that you can use toward your next month’s bill.
Rhode Island Renewable Energy Growth Program This is a program similar to net metering, but the payout is higher in most cases. National Grid’s Renewable Energy Growth (REG) program awards customers between 24 and 29 cents for each kilowatt-hour (kWh) their solar power system produces for the first 15 years.
Rhode Island Renewable Energy Fund (REF) REF provides grants for renewable energy projects that have the potential to produce electricity in a cleaner, more sustainable manner. Grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis and applications are due by March every year. You can check the website for availability.
Residential Solar Energy Property Tax Exemption Rhode Island has a 100% property tax exemption for eligible renewable energy projects.
Renewable Energy Products Sales and Use Tax Exemption Rhode Island has a 100% sales tax exemption for eligible renewable energy projects.

Get Multiple Quotes From Different Solar Companies

It may be tempting to go with the first quote you get from a solar installer, but taking the time to get multiple quotes can save you money.

We recommend comparing quotes and services from at least companies and weighing the pros and cons of each before you decide which to hire.

Just because a quote is the cheapest doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best deal. Research the best solar panel brands and consider your home’s energy needs. Make sure to ask each solar contractor about the efficiency and type of panels they install, and what size system would be best for your home.

Pay in Cash or Put More Money Down

Considering solar panels cost thousands of dollars, we know it isn’t reasonable to expect every homeowner to pay in cash. If paying for your entire system upfront doesn’t seem feasible, don’t let that deter you from getting solar panels.

Although taking out a solar loan will mean you’re paying more overall in interest payments, in most cases, you’ll still be saving more in electricity bills in the long run.

To minimize the amount of interest you’re paying on your loan, try to pay a little more each month or put more money down upfront. Every bit counts.

Will Solar Increase Your Home Value in Rhode Island?

According to Zillow, a home with solar panels is worth 4.1% more on average than a home without solar panels. The average home value in Rhode Island is $436,864, so that’s a potential of $17,911 added value just by going solar.3

Rhode Island also has a property tax exemption on solar panels, so you won’t have to pay property taxes on any added value to your house after installing solar power.

Should Rhode Island Residents Hire a Professional Solar Installer Or DIY?

best solar installers in rhode island

If you’re hoping to only power small appliances, an RV or a boat with solar panels, a DIY solar installation may be doable. But if you’re looking to install solar panels to power your entire home, we highly recommend hiring a professional.

In general, labor costs make up about 10% of the total cost of a solar installation. Based on the average cost of a solar panel system in Rhode Island, you would save about $1,193 on installation costs if you DIY. While DIY installation may seem like a better deal, there are risks involved. Trying to install solar panels yourself can be dangerous, and incorrectly installing your panels could cause damage to both your equipment and roof.

If you want to install a solar panel system in Rhode Island, you will need to apply for a solar permit through the Office of Energy Resources (EOR). This applies to all municipalities in Rhode Island.4 If you choose to install your panels yourself, you will have to apply for this permit independently.

You should only install a full-sized solar array on your home if:

  • You have prior electrical or solar installation experience,
  • You feel comfortable working on your roof,
  • You have all the necessary equipment, and
  • You have acquired the necessary permits to legally install your solar system.

If any one of these four statements does not apply to you, we urge you to get in contact with a professional to help you with your installation. Select one of our top-recommended solar providers below to get a free quote.

What Should Rhode Island Residents Look For in a Solar Installer?

There are over 10 solar panel installation companies located in Rhode Island, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA).5 With multiple options available, selecting the right installer can feel overwhelming. When choosing a solar panel company, lay out your criteria and look for a contractor that offers what you want. At the bare minimum, a company should:

  • Hold all required licenses and certifications to install solar in Rhode Island
  • Have great customer service
  • Operate locally in Rhode Island
  • Offer the products and services you want

Required Licenses and Certifications

Rhode Island has strict requirements for solar professionals to qualify as certified installers. Ask your contractor if they:

  • Are registered with the Rhode Island Secretary of State
  • Hold a General Contractor’s license
  • Have an up-to-date Renewable Energy Professional Certificate

If they do not have all three of these qualifications, keep looking for a different installer.6

Great Customer Service

A company’s quality of customer service is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a solar provider. When choosing the right solar company, Rhode Island homeowners should look for:

  • A solar installer that will communicate with you throughout (and after) the installation process
  • A solar company that offers a great warranty and will back it up
  • A solar provider that hires knowledgeable, experienced solar professionals

But how do you know which companies offer the best service, and which ones fall short? A little research can go a long way. Read customer reviews on reputable websites like BBB or Trustpilot. This gives you insight into the experiences of real customers in Rhode Island and how satisfied they were with their installation.

Or, if you want to skip the hassle, we’ve already researched the best solar companies in Rhode Island for you. Check out one of our trusted solar providers below to get a free, no-obligation quote.

Operates Locally

When it comes to the location of your solar company, you have two options:

  • A large solar company that operates nationwide and has a location in Rhode Island, or
  • A small solar company that operates only in Rhode Island.

We do not usually recommend hiring a solar company that is based outside of the state you live in (although some companies close to the Rhode Island border are an exception).

Whether you go with a national or local solar company is up to you. A large company tends to offer a wider selection of products at a slightly lower price, but small companies tend to have more customization options and better customer service.

Offers the Products and Services You Want

There’s an endless array of solar products, panels, batteries, brands and sizes out there. When choosing a solar provider, you should find a company that meets what you want and need for your Rhode Island home.

You may not know exactly what solar products you want before you get started, but you should always consider your home’s energy needs.

For instance, the size, angle and orientation of your roof, as well as your average energy usage, will determine what solar brand and type are just right for you.

Solar installations are highly individualized to meet each home’s needs. Don’t let a company convince you otherwise.

If you’re interested in add-ons like solar batteries or newer products like solar shingles, make sure your company of choice offers everything you want. Some solar companies only offer solar panels, while others offer a wider range of products.

Methodology: How We Ranked Rhode Island’s Solar Companies

rhode island best solar companies

When we rank our top solar companies, we start by identifying the factors that matter most to ensure our readers find a trustworthy, reliable and environmentally responsible installer. We’ve listed those factors as categories below.

We then weigh these factors against the industry standard for each solar company. A company meeting the industry standard in all categories would earn 4 out of 5 stars in our rating system. A company exceeding the industry standard in all categories would earn a full 5 stars.

Our goal is to deliver unbiased reports and honest reviews, thus, our methodology is not affected by commercial partnerships and is specifically tailored to Rhode Island homes.

  • Solar Services (20%) 
  • Qualifications, Reputation & Certifications (20%)
  • Solar Warranty & Customer Support (15%)
  • Solar Financing Options (15%)
  • Experience (10%)
  • Availability (10%)
  • Environmental, Social and Corporate Governance Factors (10%)

Solar Services

A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers: in-house installations, energy storage systems (solar batteries) and home-efficiency audits or upgrades. A company can earn bonus points if it offers additional services that we don’t consider essential, including electric vehicle chargers, home thermostats, etc. The industry standard that we measure against includes solar panel and backup battery installations only.

For Rhode Island, Green Power Energy and Summit Energy offer the best selection of solar services on our list.

Qualifications, Reputation & Certifications

A company earns a perfect score in this category if it is: NABCEP-certified, has a minimum of 4 stars over its last 100 reviews on Google, an A+ with the BBB and 4 or more stars on Glassdoor to reflect employee satisfaction and low turnover rate. We give bonus points for additional certifications, such as LEED or certifications with the Building Performance Institute (BPI). We flag a company for further review if it has any track record of lawsuits or customer rights violations.

Solar Warranty & Customer Support

A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers 25-year warranties that cover performance, product and workmanship of your solar equipment. The industry standard that we measure companies against is 25-year product and performance warranties, along with a 10-year workmanship warranty. We also look closely into the track record of the post-installation support each company provides in terms of honoring its warranties.

For Rhode Island, SunPower and Summit Energy offer the best warranty coverage.

Solar Financing Options

A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers multiple financing options, including in-house options in addition to partner organizations. As many solar companies choose not to offer leases and PPAs in the interest of consumer well-being, we do not dock points for companies that don’t offer them.

Experience in Rhode Island

A company earns a perfect score in this category if it has 10+ years of experience installing solar. The industry standard that we measure against is at least five years of experience.

Some national companies have been installing solar equipment around the country for years, but only expanded to Rhode Island more recently. For instance, we like that Trinity Solar has been in business since 1994, but it only expanded to Warwick, Rhode Island in 2016.

Availability

A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers solar services throughout the state of Rhode Island.

Environmental, Social & Corporate Governance Factors

A company earns a perfect score in this category if it offers public data disclosure, addresses end-of-life (EoL) products or processes and demonstrates a commitment to uplifting the communities that it serves.

We like that SunPower, our number one recommended solar provider in Rhode Island, sells products that are Cradle to Cradle certified.

Read More About Going Solar in Rhode Island 

FAQ: Best Solar Companies in Rhode Island

Consumers trust the EcoWatch brand when it comes to solar, so we get a lot of questions about the best solar companies. Here are a few of the most frequently asked questions we’ve received from Rhode Island homeowners, along with our responses. If you have specific questions that aren’t answered here, reach out to our team of solar experts at solar@ecowatch.com.

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Article author
Faith is a writer based in North Carolina. She holds English and economics degrees from UNC Chapel Hill, and her background includes event management and technical publishing. Faith is passionate about the arts and loves exploring environmental issues through economic and artistic lenses. She also enjoys spending time in nature, collecting books and practicing her Spanish.
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Expert reviewer
Tori is an editor, writer, rock climber and travel enthusiast. A native New Yorker, she graduated from the College of Saint Rose with a degree in communications and journalism. Before joining EcoWatch, Tori helped to oversee communication strategies for the City of Philadelphia. Her experience also includes communications work in the nonprofit and academic sectors. A journalist by trade, she started her career covering political, environmental and social issues in New York's Hudson Valley. In her spare time, Tori can be found in the mountains climbing boulders, traveling to new cities or at one of Philadelphia's many music venues.

Comparing authorized solar partners

EcoWatch rating
Average cost
Pros
Cons
BBB Rating
Year founded
Service Area
Brands of Solar Equipment Offered
Warranty Coverage
  • 5.0
    • Most efficient panels on the market
    • National coverage
    • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
    • Great warranty coverage
    • Expensive
    • Customer service varies by local dealer
    A+
    Best National Provider
    1985
    SunPower Panels
    25-year all-inclusive warranty

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