Rhode Island solar incentives
State grants, net metering, and strong consumer protections can lower the cost of going solar in RI. Here's what is available as of 2026.
Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit — what changed in 2026
Public Law 119-21 (July 4, 2025) amended 26 U.S.C. § 25D so the Residential Clean Energy Credit is not allowed for any expenditures made after December 31, 2025.
- 30% credit only for qualifying expenditures made on or before December 31, 2025
- Not available for expenditures made after December 31, 2025
- Commercial projects may still qualify for the 30% ITC (Section 48E)
Renewable Energy Fund (REF) grants
Rhode Island CommerceThe Rhode Island Commerce Renewable Energy Fund provides renewable energy grants for small-scale, commercial-scale, and community renewable energy projects throughout the state. The fund is financed through the system benefit charge on electric bills and alternative compliance payments from electricity providers.
- Grants available for small-scale, commercial-scale, and community solar
- Funded by the system benefit charge and alternative compliance payments
- Application timing and award amounts are set by RI Commerce
Net metering & virtual net metering
Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission / OERNet metering lets customers receive bill credits for power generated by an on-site renewable system. Credits are available for generation up to 125% of on-site consumption. For projects initiated after April 15, 2023, the renewable net-metering credit is reduced by 20%, subject to a 275 MW capacity limit.
- Credits for generation up to 125% of on-site consumption
- Excess above 100% credited at the utility's avoided-cost rate
- 20% credit reduction for projects initiated after April 15, 2023
- Systems must be sized to on-site loads using a three-year average
Source: RI Office of Energy Resources — Net Metering Overview
Solar retailer registration & consumer protections
RI Department of Business RegulationResidential solar retailers must register with DBR and renew annually. Retailers must also use Office of Energy Resources standardized disclosure forms, carry general liability insurance, maintain employee rosters, and obtain background checks for sales representatives.
- Annual registration required for residential solar retailers
- Standardized disclosure forms from OER must be provided to customers
- General liability insurance of at least $500,000 per occurrence and in the aggregate
Source: RI DBR — Solar Retailers