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Every number we use, with its source

Updated Oct 28, 2026 · By No BS Clean Energy · Sources below

Each figure on this site comes from this list. We read it at the source, note the exact section, and date it. When a rule changes, we change it here and every page follows.

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On this page
  1. State grant (REF)
  2. REG program
  3. Net metering
  4. Power prices
  5. Sun, home use and cost
  6. Taxes and buying safely
  7. How the estimator works

Average price Rhode Island homes pay for power 2016 to 2026

¢ per kWh. Latest: 28.18¢, Aug 2026
Source: U.S. EIA, Electric Power Monthly (Form EIA-861M data). Checked Oct 28, 2026.Note: All-in average: supply plus delivery, fixed charges spread over every kWh. Recent months are preliminary.
Monthly series as CSV

State grant (REF)

Checked Sep 28, 2026 to Oct 28, 2026

WhatValueSource
State grant per watt of solar$1.65$1.65$1.65 per wattState grant per watt of solarThe state can change funding levels. It gives notice one round ahead.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Project Funding table, 'Starting Funding Year 2026', row D.O (Direct Ownership); also Small Scale Flyer, 'Current REF Incentive Levels'Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Project Funding table, 'Starting Funding Year 2026', row D.O (Direct Ownership); also Small Scale Flyer, 'Current REF Incentive Levels'
The most the solar grant can pay$14,500$14,500The most the solar grant can payThe grant is paid to your installer, who takes it off your contract price.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Project Funding table, Max column: '$14,500/project'Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Project Funding table, Max column: '$14,500/project'
System size where the grant tops out8.8 kW8.8 kW8.8 kW (bigger systems get the max)System size where the grant tops outBased on the system's rated size. Bigger systems get the top amount.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small Scale Funding FlyerCurrent REF Incentive Levels table, Size columnVerified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [2]Current REF Incentive Levels table, Size column
Extra grant for adding a home battery$5,000$5,000Extra grant for adding a home batteryOnly with a solar project that also gets the grant. The battery money has its own pot and can run out on its own. Battery projects get 18 months to finish.RI Commerce, REF Energy Storage Adder Request for Projects (v6, rev. 4/6/2026)Project Funding, 'Small Scale Program' rowVerified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [3]Project Funding, 'Small Scale Program' row
The most you can get for solar plus a battery$19,500$19,500The most you can get for solar plus a batteryThis is the solar top amount plus the battery amount. The state lists them separately.RI Commerce, Small-Scale RFP and Energy Storage Adder RFP (both rev. 4/6/26)Sum of Small-Scale RFP Project Funding max ($14,500) and Storage Adder RFP Small Scale row ($5,000)Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [3]Sum of Small-Scale RFP Project Funding max ($14,500) and Storage Adder RFP Small Scale row ($5,000)
How much sun the roof must get80%80%80% TSRF or higher on the shade reportHow much sun the roof must getTSRF measures how much sun your roof gets through the year. Your installer's shade report shows it.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Eligibility checklist, question 2 (the shade report must show 80% TSRF or higher); also on the Small Scale Funding FlyerVerified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Eligibility checklist, question 2 (the shade report must show 80% TSRF or higher); also on the Small Scale Funding Flyer
Who can get the grantYou must own the home and the system. Leases and PPAs don't qualify.You must own the home and the system. Leases and PPAs don't qualify.Who can get the grantYou must also own the property, and it must be in Rhode Island.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Things to know, bullet 6Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Things to know, bullet 6
Can you use the grant and REG together?Pick one. REF and REG can't be combined.Pick one. REF and REG can't be combined.Can you use the grant and REG together?RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Things to know, bullet 1Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Things to know, bullet 1
The most one installer can claim per round$375,000$375,000$375,000 per installer applicationThe most one installer can claim per roundRI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Project Funding table, Max column: '$375,000/application'Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Project Funding table, Max column: '$375,000/application'
When the panels can go upDon't install until the grant is approved.Don't install until the grant is approved.When the panels can go upThe project must be finished within 12 months of signing, or 18 months with a battery.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Eligible Technologies, first dash bulletVerified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Eligible Technologies, first dash bullet
Round 26-1 closedMay 1, 2026May 1, 2026Round 26-1 closedThis round is closed.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund web pageSmall Scale Projects, 'Small Scale Funding Program Approximate Time Table'Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Commerce [4]Small Scale Projects, 'Small Scale Funding Program Approximate Time Table'
Round 26-2 closedJuly 17, 2026July 17, 2026Round 26-2 closedThis round is closed.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund web pageSmall Scale Projects, 'Small Scale Funding Program Approximate Time Table'Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Commerce [4]Small Scale Projects, 'Small Scale Funding Program Approximate Time Table'
Round 26-3 closedOctober 16, 2026October 16, 2026Round 26-3 closedThis round is closed.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund web pageSmall Scale Projects, 'Small Scale Funding Program Approximate Time Table', row 26-3Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [4]Small Scale Projects, 'Small Scale Funding Program Approximate Time Table', row 26-3
Is a round after October 16 announced?Not yet announcedNot yet announcedIs a round after October 16 announced?The program has not ended. The next round just is not posted yet.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund web pageGrant Rounds table and Small Scale time table (both end at 26-3)Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [4]Grant Rounds table and Small Scale time table (both end at 26-3)
Time to finish from signing the installer contract (18 months with a battery)12 months12 months12 months from signing the installer contract, or 18 with a batteryTime to finish from signing the installer contract (18 months with a battery)Counted from the day you sign the contract.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Small-Scale RFP completion requirement (12 months from contract signing); Energy Storage Adder RFP (18 months for battery projects)Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Small-Scale RFP completion requirement (12 months from contract signing); Energy Storage Adder RFP (18 months for battery projects)
How the grant money movesThe grant is paid to your installer and comes off your contract price.The grant is paid to your installer and comes off your contract price.How the grant money movesAsk to see the grant amount and what you owe after it on your contract.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Project application requirements: an executed turnkey contract, contingent on REF funding, showing total cost, the REF grant amount and the net owedVerified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Project application requirements: an executed turnkey contract, contingent on REF funding, showing total cost, the REF grant amount and the net owed
Who files the grant applicationYour installer files the application for you.Your installer files the application for you.Who files the grant applicationYou sign the contract; the installer files.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Application sections are filed by the installer (Section 1 once per company per round, Section 2 per project)Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Application sections are filed by the installer (Section 1 once per company per round, Section 2 per project)
Must a grant installer hold an REP or master electrician license?Yes. An REP license or a master electrician license.Yes. An REP license or a master electrician license.Must a grant installer hold an REP or master electrician license?Your installer must hold one of these for the state grant. Ask which one, then check it.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26)Page 3, Qualifications table, rows 'Rhode Island Renewable Energy Professional License (REP)' OR 'Master Electrician License': 'A master electrician can do everything under the REP. One of the two are sufficient.'Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Commerce [1]Page 3, Qualifications table, rows 'Rhode Island Renewable Energy Professional License (REP)' OR 'Master Electrician License': 'A master electrician can do everything under the REP. One of the two are sufficient.'

REG program

Checked Sep 28, 2026

WhatValueSource
REG pay rate: systems up to 15 kW, 15-year term31.55¢31.55¢31.55¢ per kWh for 15 yearsREG pay rate: systems up to 15 kW, 15-year termFor the program year April 2026 to March 2027. Your rate is locked in for the full term once you enroll.RI Energy, RE Growth Solicitation and Enrollment Process Rules for Small-Scale Solar (effective 4/1/2026)Schedule 2, 'Small-Scale Solar I (>0-15 kW DC)', page 12Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Energy [5]Schedule 2, 'Small-Scale Solar I (>0-15 kW DC)', page 12
REG pay rate: systems 15 to 25 kW, 20-year term28.65¢28.65¢28.65¢ per kWh for 20 yearsREG pay rate: systems 15 to 25 kW, 20-year termSystem size sets the term. You don't choose it.RI Energy, RE Growth Solicitation and Enrollment Process Rules for Small-Scale Solar (effective 4/1/2026)Schedule 2, 'Small-Scale Solar II (>15-25 kW DC)', page 12Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Energy [5]Schedule 2, 'Small-Scale Solar II (>15-25 kW DC)', page 12
Total room in REG for small solar this year3 MW3 MW3 MW (DC) for the whole stateTotal room in REG for small solar this yearFirst come, first served, across the whole state.RI Energy, RE Growth Solicitation and Enrollment Process Rules for Small-Scale Solar (effective 4/1/2026)Schedule 1, Approved Small-Scale Solar Annual MW Target (Small-Scale Solar I and II combined)Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Energy [5]Schedule 1, Approved Small-Scale Solar Annual MW Target (Small-Scale Solar I and II combined)
Last day to apply for REG this yearMarch 31, 2027March 31, 2027Last day to apply for REG this yearOr sooner, when the statewide program fills. A complete application is due by 4 p.m. Eastern.RI Energy, 2026 Small-Scale Solar RE Growth Program one-pagerHow It Works, bullet 4Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Energy [6]How It Works, bullet 4
Does REG work with net metering?REG replaces net metering. You get one or the other.REG replaces net metering. You get one or the other.Does REG work with net metering?A system already on net metering can't join REG. Ask in writing who receives REG's cash part; RI Energy's documents differ on it.RI Energy, RE Growth Program Tariff for Residential Customers, RIPUC No. 2151-M (effective 4/1/2026)Sheets 6-7, project segmentation paragraphVerified Sep 28, 2026RI Energy [7]Sheets 6-7, project segmentation paragraph
Who gets REG's cash paymentYou get a bill credit for power you use, and the rest is paid in cash. RI Energy's rules say the cash goes to you as the customer, but its flyer says the applicant, so get it in writing.You get a bill credit for power you use, and the rest is paid in cash. RI Energy's rules say the cash goes to you as the customer, but its flyer says the applicant, so get it in writing.Who gets REG's cash paymentIf an installer files for you, ask in writing who receives the cash part before you sign.RI Energy, RE Growth Solicitation and Enrollment Process Rules for Small-Scale Solar (effective 4/1/2026)Section 1 overview: 'the remainder of the PBI payment will be paid to the customer' (residential). The 2026 one-pager says 'the applicant will be paid the remaining Performance-Based Incentive'.Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Energy [5]Section 1 overview: 'the remainder of the PBI payment will be paid to the customer' (residential). The 2026 one-pager says 'the applicant will be paid the remaining Performance-Based Incentive'.
Who files the REG application, and howYou or your installer apply through the interconnection application.You or your installer apply through the interconnection application.Who files the REG application, and howYour installer can file for you, or you can file yourself. Ask who will be named as the applicant.RI Energy, PY26 RE Growth Solicitation and Enrollment Process Rules for Small-Scale Solar Projects (effective 4/1/2026)Introduction ('An applicant (Applicant) to the RE Growth Program may be a solar developer or a Rhode Island Energy customer'); Section 1.2.1 Applications ('There is no separate enrollment application for Small-Scale Solar Projects'); Section 2.2Verified Sep 28, 2026RI Energy [5]Introduction ('An applicant (Applicant) to the RE Growth Program may be a solar developer or a Rhode Island Energy customer'); Section 1.2.1 Applications ('There is no separate enrollment application for Small-Scale Solar Projects'); Section 2.2

Net metering

Checked Sep 28, 2026 to Oct 28, 2026

WhatValueSource
What your solar credit coversCredited at the supply and delivery parts of your rate. Fixed monthly charges stay.Credited at the supply and delivery parts of your rate. Fixed monthly charges stay.What your solar credit coversFixed monthly charges on your bill are not covered by credits.R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2(22)§ 39-26.4-2(22)(i)-(iv), 'Renewable net-metering credit'Verified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2 [8]§ 39-26.4-2(22)(i)-(iv), 'Renewable net-metering credit'
Home solar credit per kWh, standard home rate A-1627.553¢27.553¢27.553¢ per kWh (Oct 2026, standard home rate A-16)Home solar credit per kWh, standard home rate A-16This changes when supply rates change. It shows on your bill as the renewable generation credit.RI Energy, Addendum to RIPUC Tariff No. 2095, Net Metering Credit by Rate Class, Oct 2026For the Month of October 2026. Row (21) Renewable Net Metering Credit, column A-16 (Fixed LRS): $(0.27553)Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Energy [9]For the Month of October 2026. Row (21) Renewable Net Metering Credit, column A-16 (Fixed LRS): $(0.27553)
What power beyond your own use earnsWholesale price, much lower than your retail rateWholesale price, much lower than your retail rateWhat power beyond your own use earnsThe law changed in 2025. The utility's own table still lists this rate as to be determined.R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2(8)§ 39-26.4-2(8), second paragraphVerified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2 [8]§ 39-26.4-2(8), second paragraph
Is extra power capped for home systems?No cap for systems 25 kW and underNo cap for systems 25 kW and underIs extra power capped for home systems?Bigger systems only get credit for extra power up to a limit.R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2(8)§ 39-26.4-2(8), first paragraph ('except for any system ... equal to or less than twenty-five kilowatts')Verified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2 [8]§ 39-26.4-2(8), first paragraph ('except for any system ... equal to or less than twenty-five kilowatts')
Can a home system be bigger than your use?Yes, up to 25 kW, no usage limitYes, up to 25 kW, no usage limitCan a home system be bigger than your use?You can build bigger than you use, but the extra earns the lower wholesale price.R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2(6)§ 39-26.4-2(6), 'Eligible net-metering system'Verified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2 [8]§ 39-26.4-2(6), 'Eligible net-metering system'
Do unused credits roll over?Credits can roll to next month; balances can be cashed outCredits can roll to next month; balances can be cashed outDo unused credits roll over?The law lets the utility do this. It is not required to.R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-3(a)(2) and (a)(4)§ 39-26.4-3(a)(2), last sentence; (a)(4), cash-out clauseVerified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-3 [10]§ 39-26.4-3(a)(2), last sentence; (a)(4), cash-out clause
Does the 20% credit cut hit a new home rooftop system?No. The 20% cut is for remote ground-mount projects, not rooftops on your own meter.No. The 20% cut is for remote ground-mount projects, not rooftops on your own meter.Does the 20% credit cut hit a new home rooftop system?The law ties the cut to a cap on remote ground-mount projects, and systems on a home's own meter are left out of that cap. The utility's September home credit shows no reduced rate.R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2(22) and § 39-26.4-3(a)(1)(vi); RI Energy Net Metering Provision RIPUC No. 2279 §3.3 and §4.33§ 39-26.4-3(a)(1)(vi), last sentence, exception (A); § 39-26.4-2(22) 20% sentenceVerified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-3 [10]§ 39-26.4-3(a)(1)(vi), last sentence, exception (A); § 39-26.4-2(22) 20% sentence

Power prices

Checked Oct 28, 2026

WhatValueSource
Average RI home electric price, latest month28.18¢28.18¢28.18¢ per kWh (August 2026)Average RI home electric price, latest monthAn early estimate. It is the all-in average: supply plus delivery.U.S. EIA, Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.ATable 5.6.A, Rhode Island row, Residential, August 2026 (released Oct 23, 2026)Verified Oct 28, 2026U.S. EIA [14]Table 5.6.A, Rhode Island row, Residential, August 2026 (released Oct 23, 2026)
Average RI home electric price, same month last year26.53¢26.53¢26.53¢ per kWh (August 2025)Average RI home electric price, same month last yearU.S. EIA, Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.ATable 5.6.A, Rhode Island row, Residential, August 2025Verified Oct 28, 2026U.S. EIA [14]Table 5.6.A, Rhode Island row, Residential, August 2025
RI Energy home supply rate this winter17.029¢17.029¢17.029¢ per kWh (supply only, Oct 2026 to Mar 2027)RI Energy home supply rate this winterSupply only. Delivery charges are extra.RI Energy, Summary of Rates, Last Resort Service, R.I.P.U.C. No. 2096 (effective 10/1/2026)Residential Group A-16, A-60, rows October 1, 2026 to March 1, 2027, column E Total Commodity Charges: $0.17029. Effective 10/1/2026, issued 9/29/2026.Verified Oct 28, 2026RI Energy [15]Residential Group A-16, A-60, rows October 1, 2026 to March 1, 2027, column E Total Commodity Charges: $0.17029. Effective 10/1/2026, issued 9/29/2026.

Sun, home use and cost

Checked Sep 28, 2026 to Oct 28, 2026

WhatValueSource
Average installed price in RI (marketplace quotes)$2.80$2.80$2.80 per watt (EnergySage average, Oct 2026)Average installed price in RI (marketplace quotes)EnergySage's average across quotes on its marketplace, for systems that average 11.69 kW. Not a state number. Your price per watt depends on your system.EnergySage, Solar cost in Rhode Island (third-party marketplace)Intro paragraph, 'As of October 2026' (page updated Oct 23, 2026)Verified Oct 28, 2026EnergySage [17]Intro paragraph, 'As of October 2026' (page updated Oct 23, 2026)
EnergySage average price for an average 11.69 kW system$32,686$32,686$32,686 for an average 11.69 kW system (EnergySage, Oct 2026)EnergySage average price for an average 11.69 kW systemA marketplace average before any grant.EnergySage, Solar cost in Rhode Island (third-party marketplace)Header summary and intro paragraph (range $27,783 to $37,589). Page updated Oct 23, 2026.Verified Oct 28, 2026EnergySage [17]Header summary and intro paragraph (range $27,783 to $37,589). Page updated Oct 23, 2026.
Power one kW of panels makes in a year in Providence1,318 kWh/kW/yr1,318 kWh/kW/yrabout 1,318 kWh a year per kWPower one kW of panels makes in a year in ProvidenceModeled, not measured. East or west roofs and shade make less.National Laboratory of the Rockies (formerly NREL), PVWatts v8PVWatts v8 API: lat 41.824, lon -71.413, 1 kW, south-facing (180°), 25° tilt, 14% losses, NSRDB PSM V3 TMY weatherVerified Sep 28, 2026National Laboratory of the Rockies [18]PVWatts v8 API: lat 41.824, lon -71.413, 1 kW, south-facing (180°), 25° tilt, 14% losses, NSRDB PSM V3 TMY weather
Power the average Rhode Island home uses in a year6,726 kWh6,726 kWhabout 6,726 kWh a yearPower the average Rhode Island home uses in a yearWorked out from EIA's statewide totals for the 12 months through July 2026: all home electricity sold, divided by the number of homes. Recent months are early estimates.U.S. EIA, Form EIA-861M, monthly sales and revenuesales_revenue.xlsx (released Oct 23, 2026), Monthly-States, RI Residential: total sales Aug 2025 to Jul 2026 divided by average customer countVerified Oct 28, 2026U.S. EIA [19]sales_revenue.xlsx (released Oct 23, 2026), Monthly-States, RI Residential: total sales Aug 2025 to Jul 2026 divided by average customer count
EnergySage low-end price for an average 11.69 kW system$27,783$27,783$27,783 on the low endEnergySage low-end price for an average 11.69 kW systemEnergySage's marketplace figure, before any grant.EnergySage, Solar cost in Rhode Island (third-party marketplace)Intro paragraph ('prices range from $27,783 to $37,589') and price range table ('Good Price $27,783 or less'). Page updated Oct 23, 2026.Verified Oct 28, 2026EnergySage [17]Intro paragraph ('prices range from $27,783 to $37,589') and price range table ('Good Price $27,783 or less'). Page updated Oct 23, 2026.
EnergySage high-end price for an average 11.69 kW system$37,589$37,589$37,589 on the high endEnergySage high-end price for an average 11.69 kW systemEnergySage's marketplace figure, before any grant.EnergySage, Solar cost in Rhode Island (third-party marketplace)Intro paragraph ('prices range from $27,783 to $37,589') and price range table ('High Price $37,589 or more'). Page updated Oct 23, 2026.Verified Oct 28, 2026EnergySage [17]Intro paragraph ('prices range from $27,783 to $37,589') and price range table ('High Price $37,589 or more'). Page updated Oct 23, 2026.
EnergySage's estimated payback for solar in Rhode Island9.58 years9.58 yearsAbout 9.6 yearsEnergySage's estimated payback for solar in Rhode IslandThis is EnergySage's estimate, not ours. We don't know whether it counts the state REF grant.EnergySage, Solar cost in Rhode Island (third-party marketplace)Savings stats row: 'Payback period 9.58 Years'. Method sentence just above: 'factoring in system costs, electricity prices, available incentives, and inflation rates.' Page updated Oct 23, 2026.Verified Oct 28, 2026EnergySage [17]Savings stats row: 'Payback period 9.58 Years'. Method sentence just above: 'factoring in system costs, electricity prices, available incentives, and inflation rates.' Page updated Oct 23, 2026.

Taxes and buying safely

Checked Sep 28, 2026

WhatValueSource
Federal solar tax credit for homeowners (section 25D)Gone for systems finished after Dec 31, 2025Gone for systems finished after Dec 31, 2025Federal solar tax credit for homeowners (section 25D)A system counts as finished when it is installed, not when you sign or pay.IRS, FAQs for modification of sections 25C, 25D ... under Public Law 119-21 (FS-2025-05, Aug 21, 2025)Termination table row 25D; Q&A citing § 25D(e)(8)(A)Verified Sep 28, 2026IRS [11]Termination table row 25D; Q&A citing § 25D(e)(8)(A)
RI sales tax on solar equipmentNo RI sales tax on panels, inverters or rackingNo RI sales tax on panels, inverters or rackingRI sales tax on solar equipmentThe law does not list batteries.R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-18-30(57), Renewable energy products§ 44-18-30(57)Verified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-18-30 [12]§ 44-18-30(57)
Property tax on solarUp to your townUp to your townProperty tax on solarAsk your town hall whether your town has an ordinance.R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-3-21§ 44-3-21 (full text, one sentence)Verified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-3-21 [13]§ 44-3-21 (full text, one sentence)
Must solar sellers register with the state?Anyone selling solar here must register with the state every year.Anyone selling solar here must register with the state every year.Must solar sellers register with the state?Sales reps also need a criminal background check.R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-93-4(a); RI DBR Solar Retailers page§ 5-93-4(a); DBR page quotes it and links Bulletin 25-01 ('Required Registration Must Be Completed By August 1, 2025')Verified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-93-4 [16]§ 5-93-4(a); DBR page quotes it and links Bulletin 25-01 ('Required Registration Must Be Completed By August 1, 2025')
Are home batteries on the sales tax exemption list?Batteries are not on the list.Batteries are not on the list.Are home batteries on the sales tax exemption list?The list names solar storage tanks, which means hot-water tanks, not batteries.R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-18-30(57), Renewable energy products§ 44-18-30(57)Verified Sep 28, 2026R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-18-30 [12]§ 44-18-30(57)
Can a solar company claim a federal credit on a leased or PPA system in 2026?Yes, for systems started by July 4, 2026 or running by the end of 2027.Yes, for systems started by July 4, 2026 or running by the end of 2027.Can a solar company claim a federal credit on a leased or PPA system in 2026?This credit goes to the company that owns the system, not to you. Homeowners who buy lost their own federal credit at the end of 2025.IRS, Instructions for Form 3468 (2025), Part V; IRS Notice 2025-42; 26 U.S.C. 25D(d)Form 3468 instructions: What's New, Part V (termination for wind or solar placed in service after 2027 where construction begins after July 4, 2026) and Part V Caution (no credit for leased 25D(d)(1) or (4) property). Notice 2025-42, sections 2.02 and 3.01 (https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-25-42.pdf). 25D(d)(1) to (4) definitions (govinfo, USCODE-2024-title26 sec. 25D).Verified Sep 28, 2026IRS [25]Form 3468 instructions: What's New, Part V (termination for wind or solar placed in service after 2027 where construction begins after July 4, 2026) and Part V Caution (no credit for leased 25D(d)(1) or (4) property). Notice 2025-42, sections 2.02 and 3.01 (https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-25-42.pdf). 25D(d)(1) to (4) definitions (govinfo, USCODE-2024-title26 sec. 25D).

How the estimator works

The estimator uses only the numbers above. Here is every step, so you can check it by hand.

State grant
System size in watts × the REF rate per watt, stopped at the REF cap. Add the battery amount if you add a battery. No grant for a lease or PPA, or with REG.
Power a year
System size in kW × the PVWatts output per kW for Providence.
Power credited at the home rate
The smaller of power a year and what your home uses (starts at the EIA average).
Extra power
Power a year minus the power credited at the home rate. It earns the wholesale price, which the utility has not set yet, so the estimator counts it as zero.
Bill credit a year
Power credited at the home rate × this month's A-16 home net metering credit.
Simple payback
(System size in watts × your price per watt, minus the solar grant) ÷ bill credit a year. Solar only. No battery cost, upkeep, panel wear or price changes.
Worked examples on other pages
The grant-by-size table and the REF vs REG example on the grant page use the same numbers: size × the REF rate for the grant, power made × this month's home credit or × the REG rate for each year. Tap any number there to see its math.
REG instead
Power a year × the REG rate for the system's size. No grant. Simple payback is the full price ÷ REG pay a year. It assumes the full REG pay reaches you, since RI Energy's documents differ on who gets the cash part.
Lease or PPA
Bill credit a year minus a year of lease payments, or minus power a year times the PPA price. There is no grant.

The REF vs REG example on the grant page

It uses a system at the grant's top size, 8.8 kW8.8 kW8.8 kW (bigger systems get the max)System size where the grant tops outBased on the system's rated size. Bigger systems get the top amount.RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small Scale Funding FlyerCurrent REF Incentive Levels table, Size columnVerified Oct 28, 2026, making 11,598 kWh11,598 kWhWorked out from sourced numbers: 8.8 kW × 1,318 kWhSystem size where the grant tops out: 8.8 kW (bigger systems get the max). Verified Oct 28, 2026.Power one kW of panels makes in a year in Providence: about 1,318 kWh a year per kW. Verified Sep 28, 2026. a year, all used at home. REF: a $14,500$14,500Worked out from sourced numbers: 8800 watts × $1.65, cappedState grant per watt of solar: $1.65 per watt. Verified Oct 28, 2026.The most the solar grant can pay: up to $14,500. Verified Oct 28, 2026. grant plus $3,196$3,196Worked out from sourced numbers: 11,598 kWh × 27.553¢Home solar credit per kWh, standard home rate A-16: 27.553¢ per kWh (Oct 2026, standard home rate A-16). Verified Oct 28, 2026. a year in credits, or $62,436$62,436Worked out from sourced numbers: $14,500 + $3,196 × 15 yearsState grant per watt of solar: $1.65 per watt. Verified Oct 28, 2026.Home solar credit per kWh, standard home rate A-16: 27.553¢ per kWh (Oct 2026, standard home rate A-16). Verified Oct 28, 2026. over the REG term. REG: $3,659$3,659Worked out from sourced numbers: 11,598 kWh × 31.55¢REG pay rate: systems up to 15 kW, 15-year term: 31.55¢ per kWh for 15 years. Verified Sep 28, 2026. a year, or $54,889$54,889Worked out from sourced numbers: $3,659 × 15 yearsREG pay rate: systems up to 15 kW, 15-year term: 31.55¢ per kWh for 15 years. Verified Sep 28, 2026. over the term, if the full REG pay reaches you.

The default case, worked by hand

A typical home uses 6,726 kWh6,726 kWhabout 6,726 kWh a yearPower the average Rhode Island home uses in a yearWorked out from EIA's statewide totals for the 12 months through July 2026: all home electricity sold, divided by the number of homes. Recent months are early estimates.U.S. EIA, Form EIA-861M, monthly sales and revenuesales_revenue.xlsx (released Oct 23, 2026), Monthly-States, RI Residential: total sales Aug 2025 to Jul 2026 divided by average customer countVerified Oct 28, 2026 a year. Divided by the output of each kW and rounded to the nearest half kW, the estimator starts at 5 kW5 kWWorked out from sourced numbers: 6,726 kWh ÷ 1,318 kWh per kW, to the nearest half kWPower the average Rhode Island home uses in a year: about 6,726 kWh a year. Verified Oct 28, 2026.Power one kW of panels makes in a year in Providence: about 1,318 kWh a year per kW. Verified Sep 28, 2026.. That makes 6,590 kWh6,590 kWhWorked out from sourced numbers: 5 kW × 1,318 kWhPower one kW of panels makes in a year in Providence: about 1,318 kWh a year per kW. Verified Sep 28, 2026., all used at home, for a bill credit of $1,816$1,816Worked out from sourced numbers: 6,590 kWh × 27.553¢Home solar credit per kWh, standard home rate A-16: 27.553¢ per kWh (Oct 2026, standard home rate A-16). Verified Oct 28, 2026. a year. The price is $14,000$14,000Worked out from sourced numbers: 5000 watts × $2.8Average installed price in RI (marketplace quotes): $2.80 per watt (EnergySage average, Oct 2026). Verified Oct 28, 2026. and the grant is $8,250$8,250Worked out from sourced numbers: 5000 watts × $1.65State grant per watt of solar: $1.65 per watt. Verified Oct 28, 2026.The most the solar grant can pay: up to $14,500. Verified Oct 28, 2026., so the simple payback is 3.2 years3.2 yearsWorked out from sourced numbers: ($14,000 - $8,250) ÷ $1,816Average installed price in RI (marketplace quotes): $2.80 per watt (EnergySage average, Oct 2026). Verified Oct 28, 2026.State grant per watt of solar: $1.65 per watt. Verified Oct 28, 2026.Home solar credit per kWh, standard home rate A-16: 27.553¢ per kWh (Oct 2026, standard home rate A-16). Verified Oct 28, 2026..

Waiting on a source

We know these matter, but we can't confirm them yet, so no page shows them.

  • RI Energy home supply rate now (summer). Supply only. Delivery charges are extra.
  • The wholesale rate paid for power beyond your own use. The utility has not posted this rate yet.
  • How to check a solar seller's state registration. DBR says registered sellers can be searched online. You can also email DBR's Solar Retailers Section at DBR.Solar@dbr.ri.gov to ask.

Sources

  1. RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small-Scale Request for Projects (rev. 4/6/26). Read Oct 28, 2026.
  2. RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund, Small Scale Funding Flyer. Read Oct 28, 2026.
  3. RI Commerce, REF Energy Storage Adder Request for Projects (v6, rev. 4/6/2026). Read Oct 28, 2026.
  4. RI Commerce, Renewable Energy Fund web page. Read Oct 28, 2026.
  5. RI Energy, RE Growth Solicitation and Enrollment Process Rules for Small-Scale Solar (effective 4/1/2026). Read Sep 28, 2026.
  6. RI Energy, 2026 Small-Scale Solar RE Growth Program one-pager. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  7. RI Energy, RE Growth Program Tariff for Residential Customers, RIPUC No. 2151-M (effective 4/1/2026). Read Sep 28, 2026.
  8. R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-2. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  9. RI Energy, Addendum to RIPUC Tariff No. 2095, Net Metering Credit by Rate Class, Oct 2026. Read Oct 28, 2026.
  10. R.I. Gen. Laws § 39-26.4-3. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  11. IRS, FAQs for modification of sections 25C, 25D ... under Public Law 119-21 (FS-2025-05, Aug 21, 2025). Read Sep 28, 2026.
  12. R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-18-30. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  13. R.I. Gen. Laws § 44-3-21. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  14. U.S. EIA, Electric Power Monthly, Table 5.6.A. Read Oct 28, 2026.
  15. RI Energy, Summary of Rates, Last Resort Service, R.I.P.U.C. No. 2096 (effective 10/1/2026). Read Oct 28, 2026.
  16. R.I. Gen. Laws § 5-93-4(a); RI DBR Solar Retailers page. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  17. EnergySage, Solar cost in Rhode Island (third-party marketplace). Read Oct 28, 2026.
  18. National Laboratory of the Rockies (formerly NREL), PVWatts v8. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  19. U.S. EIA, Form EIA-861M, monthly sales and revenue. Read Oct 28, 2026.
  20. RI Energy, Summary of Retail Delivery Rates, R.I.P.U.C. No. 2095 (effective 10/1/2026). Read Oct 28, 2026.
  21. RI Energy, Net Metering Provision, RIPUC No. 2279 (effective 5/12/2026). Read Sep 28, 2026.
  22. RI Contractors' Registration and Licensing Board, General Contractor Registration page and Registration/License Status Lookup. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  23. RI Office of Energy Resources, Renewable Energy Professional (REP) page. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  24. RI Energy, ConnectedSolutions Battery Program page; 2024-2026 Program Guide, Battery Energy Storage. Read Sep 28, 2026.
  25. IRS, Instructions for Form 3468 (2025), Part V; IRS Notice 2025-42; 26 U.S.C. 25D(d). Read Sep 28, 2026.