Going Solar in Portsmouth
Newport Renewables is a local solar installation company with over 15 years of experience helping institutions and businesses across New England reduce energy costs and achieve sustainability goals. Over that time, we’ve seen electricity prices in Rhode Island rise to among the highest in the U.S. — 21.53 ¢/kWh 30% above the U.S national average.
Being local gives Newport Renewables a unique advantage: we know how to navigate Rhode Island’s solar programs and incentives to help Portsmouth-based organizations maximize savings and reduce upfront costs. Switching to solar can drastically lower—or even eliminate—electricity bills, and in some cases generate additional revenue through programs like net metering, making it a smart financial move for anyone looking to reduce operating costs and gain a competitive edge.
How Much Electricity Currently Costs in Portsmouth
Electricity prices in Portsmouth remain high due to Rhode Island’s reliance on imported natural gas, limited in-state generation, and transmission costs. Here’s a snapshot of commercial electricity rates in recent years:
Year
RI Commercial Rate (¢/kWh)
US Commercial Rate (¢/kWh)
% Above National Avg
2021
16.64
13.33
+25%
2022
17.68
13.66
+29%
2023
21.09
16.50
+28%
2024
21.53
16.50
+30%
How Much You Could Save With Solar: A Case Study
$142K First-Year Savings. $3M Long-Term Payoff.
A 250,000-square-foot distribution warehouse was facing summer electric bills exceeding $18,000 per month—until Newport Renewables stepped in. We installed a 520 kW rooftop solar system that now offsets 69% of the facility’s total energy load. Leveraging our deep familiarity with solar programs and incentives, the $1.33 million project achieved a net cost of just $766,000 and delivered $142,000 in energy savings in its first year alone.
The result: a 5.4-year payback, a 19.3% internal rate of return, and nearly $3 million in net cash flow over 25 years.
Solar Incentives For Portsmouth
Portsmouth-based organizations can take advantage of several Rhode Island programs and incentives designed to make going solar more affordable. These programs can significantly reduce upfront costs, accelerate return on investment, and help your solar system pay for itself faster.
Incentive
Description
Renewable Energy Sales Tax Exemption
Renewable
Energy Sales
Tax Exemption
Eliminates the 7% sales tax on all qualifying solar equipment, including panels, inverters, and racking.
Renewable Energy Fund (REF) Grants
Provides grants covering up to 30% of renewable energy installation costs for businesses, nonprofits, academic institutions, municipal/state buildings, and other large facilities.
Renewable Energy Growth (REG) Program
Allows system owners to sell excess electricity under fixed-rate 20 year contracts, generating predictable revenue.
Net Metering
Credits excess electricity at nearly full retail rate, offsetting energy usage and lowering bills.
What Solar System is Right For You?
Every property is unique, and the best solar solution depends on your space, energy goals, and budget. At Newport Renewables, we install a full range of solar systems for rooftops, open land, and parking areas, ensuring you find a solution designed for maximum efficiency, savings, and long-term value.
01
Roof Mounts
Rooftop solar panels are the most common solution, providing renewable energy directly where it’s used. Designed to capture maximum sunlight, reduce electricity bills, and increase property value, installations are tailored to roof orientation and load capacity.
02
Ground Mounts
Ground-mount systems are ideal for properties with open land, offering flexible placement and scalable energy output. They accommodate larger arrays than rooftops, maximize efficiency, and allow easy maintenance and future expansion.
03
Carports
Solar carports provide dual benefits: renewable energy generation and covered parking. Perfect for commercial properties, they protect vehicles while reducing electricity costs and enhancing sustainability credentials.
Newport
Renewables
Reviews
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
We worked with Newport on a small DG solar project in Rhode Island, and they were an outstanding partner from start to finish. Their team handled the racking, module, and full electrical installation with professionalism, efficiency, and attention to detail. Communication was always clear, and they consistently delivered quality workmanship while staying on schedule. A great team to collaborate with we would be happy to work with them again on future projects.
PEYTON MCWILLIAMS
Newport Renewables is not the first solar company we have worked with, but it is certainly the best. The sales process is warm and professional, and the installation and completion of the projects has gone off without a hitch. Communication and documentation have been excellent. It is clear from the inspection of the projects by the city and the utility that the folks at Newport Renewables know what they are doing. We have not had any of the usual delays with projects going online that we formerly believed to be the norm.
MARK VAN NOPPEN, THE ARMORY REVIVAL COMPANY
Getting solar panels installed on a town building was complicated in several ways: structural integrity of the roof, finances impacted by a recent net-metering contract, aesthetics in an historic town center, multiple different sources of grants and subsidies, and a town steeped in tradition. Newport Renewables navigated those obstacles professionally and cheerfully. The outcome exceeded expectations.
JIM LOCK, CHAIR, LITTLE COMPTON COMMITTEE TO CONSIDER SOLAR ENERGY
The staff at Newport Renewables is friendly and knowledgeable. My company, K Electric has been working with Stuart and his team for years, it is always a pleasure! We highly recommend them for your renewable energy needs!
COREY FONTAINE
With the help of Newport Renewables our organization installed a large (300+ panel) solar array at our new facility. Newport Renewables worked with us every step of the way including design and assisting us with grant funding and rebate applications and our project was completed on time and on budget. The pricing and billing were transparent and Newport Renewables coordinated their billing to match the timing of our grant receipts. The system is now in place and operating as designed with an extended warranty which will insure that our non-profit animal welfare organization will benefit from lower untility costs well into the future.
WAYNE KEZIRIAN
I cannot speak highly enough of Newport Renewables- the ownership, entire staff and all contractors were some of the best I've ever had the pleasure to work with. Stuart was extremely knowledgeable and worked with me on contract revisions until I was completely satisfied with the planned modifications and schedule. Communications were excellent throughout the entire project. Additionally, the Lead electrician (Dan) was absolutely fantastic (as were his associates). We discussed the ongoing work every day, and each and every one of my concerns was addressed to my complete satisfaction. And now I no longer pay for electricity!
JAMES HOUSTON
LET'S TALK
Get in Touch
Planning a new solar installation in Warwick or exploring renewable energy options? We’re happy to start the conversation.
If you are inquiring about a specific project, please include the property address and any details about your energy needs within your message. Thank you!
01
info@nptre.com
02
Telephone
401.619.5906
03
Address
316 Columbia St • Wakefield, RI
02879
LET'S TALK
Get in Touch
Planning a new solar installation in Warwick or exploring renewable energy options? We’re happy to start the conversation.
If you are inquiring about a specific project, please include the property address and any details about your energy needs within your message. Thank you!
01
info@nptre.com
02
Telephone
401.619.5906
03
Address
316 Columbia St • Wakefield, RI
02879
LET'S TALK
Get in Touch
Planning a new solar installation in Warwick or exploring renewable energy options? We’re happy to start the conversation.
If you are inquiring about a specific project, please include the property address and any details about your energy needs within your message. Thank you!
01
info@nptre.com
02
Telephone
401.619.5906
03
Address
316 Columbia St • Wakefield, RI
02879
WHO WE ARE
About Newport Renewables
Newport Renewables has been delivering reliable, high-performance solar solutions to institutions an businesses in Rhode Island since 2011. Our team designs, installs, and maintains solar systems across the state, working with commercial buildings, schools, municipal facilities, and industrial sites.
By handling every stage in-house, we ensure each project is customized to your energy needs, maximizes savings, and performs reliably for decades.
FAQ
Frequently
Asked Questons
Installing a solar system raises a lot of questions. Below are answers to some of the most common questions businesses and organizations ask when exploring the solar design, installation, and operations process.
Is solar worth it in Portsmouth?
How much can my business save with solar?
Can Newport Renewables handle large-scale or complex projects?
Are there incentives or tax credits for commercial solar in Rhode Island?
Is solar worth it in Cranston?
How much can my business save with solar?
Can Newport Renewables handle large-scale or complex projects?
Are there incentives or tax credits for commercial solar in Rhode Island?
Get in Touch
Start your next project with Newport Renewables.
Get in Touch
Start your next project with Newport Renewables.
Let's Chat
Start your next project with Newport Renewables.
316 Columbia St • Wakefield, RI 02879 | 401.619.5906
Copyright © 2024 Newport Renewables. All Rights Reserved.
316 Columbia St • Wakefield, RI 02879 | 401.619.5906
Copyright © 2024 Newport Renewables. All Rights Reserved.
316 Columbia St • Wakefield, RI 02879 | 401.619.5906
Copyright © 2024 Newport Renewables. All Rights Reserved.