Going Solar in Rhode Island
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 RI-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 Rhode Island
Electricity in RI remains expensive due to Rhode Island’s dependence on imported natural gas, limited in-state generation, and transmission costs. Commercial electricity rates consistently exceed the national average, adding to operational expenses for businesses and institutions.
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 Rhode Island
Rhode Island based organizations can take advantage of several solar incentives that make renewable energy more accessible and cost-effective. These programs lower upfront costs and help solar investments achieve a faster return.
Incentive
Description
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?
Choosing the right solar system depends on your property’s size, energy usage, and financial objectives. Newport Renewables installs roof mount, ground mount, and solar carports across Rhode Island to help properties generate renewable energy, reduce electricity costs, and strengthen long-term energy independence.
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.
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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.
