Solar Panel Savings in Portsmouth, RI
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Portsmouth, Rhode Island. Based on 4.6 peak sun hours/day and 21.5¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4.6
Peak Sun Hours/Day
21.5¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
7.5 yr
Payback Period
$59k
25-Year Savings
Portsmouth Solar Overview
Calculate Your Portsmouth Solar Savings
Portsmouth average: $193/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$59,127
Monthly Savings
$144
Federal Tax Credit
$5,436
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Portsmouth | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $18,120 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,436 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $12,684 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.02/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Portsmouth
Sun Hours vs National Average
Portsmouth gets 2% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 188 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 51°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,533 sq ft — enough for a 85-panel system
Portsmouth Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $18,120 system, that's a $5,436 credit. Valid through 2032.
Rhode Island State Incentives
Renewable Energy Growth Program.
Net Metering — Rhode Island Energy
Rhode Island Energy offers net metering in Portsmouth. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Portsmouth
3.4
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
55
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.8
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 8,059 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Portsmouth, Rhode Island
Portsmouth, Rhode Island receives an average of 4.6 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 21.5¢ per kWh from Rhode Island Energy, well above the national average of 16.63¢/kWh, solar panels offer exceptional savings potential.
A typical 6kW solar system in Portsmouth produces approximately 8,059 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,731 annually. The system pays for itself in about 7.3 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 18+ years of the system's warranty life.
Portsmouth has a solar penetration rate of 1.1% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 103.3 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Rhode Island
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Portsmouth, RI?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Portsmouth is approximately $18,120 before incentives ($3.02/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $12,684. Renewable Energy Growth Program.
How many peak sun hours does Portsmouth get?
Portsmouth, RI receives an average of 4.6 peak sun hours per day and approximately 188 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Portsmouth?
The average solar payback period in Portsmouth is approximately 7.5 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $59,127.
Does Portsmouth have net metering?
Yes, Portsmouth has access to net metering through Rhode Island Energy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Portsmouth, RI?
Absolutely. With a 7.5-year payback period and $59,127 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Portsmouth. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.