Solar Panel Savings in Providence, RI
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Providence, Rhode Island. Based on 4 peak sun hours/day and 28.4¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4
Peak Sun Hours/Day
28.4¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
6.6 yr
Payback Period
$37k
25-Year Savings
Providence Solar Overview
Calculate Your Providence Solar Savings
Providence average: $141/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
$67,974
Monthly Savings
$166
Federal Tax Credit
$5,616
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Providence | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $18,720 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,616 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $13,104 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $3.12/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Providence
Sun Hours vs National Average
Providence gets 11% less sun than the national average, but high-efficiency panels compensate.
Climate Advantages
- 197 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 51.9°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,851 sq ft — enough for a 102-panel system
Providence Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $18,720 system, that's a $5,616 credit. Valid through 2032.
Rhode Island State Incentives
Rhode Island RECs; property tax exemption; net metering at full retail.
Net Metering — Rhode Island Energy
Rhode Island Energy offers net metering in Providence. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Providence
2.9
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
48
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.7
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 7,008 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 Providence, Rhode Island
Providence, Rhode Island receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day, offering adequate solar resources for homeowners looking to reduce their electricity bills. With electricity rates averaging 28.4¢ per kWh from Rhode Island Energy, well above the national average of 16¢/kWh, solar panels offer exceptional savings potential.
A typical 6kW solar system in Providence produces approximately 7,008 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,990 annually. The system pays for itself in about 6.6 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 18+ years of the system's warranty life.
Providence has a solar penetration rate of 3.8% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 111 (national average: 100) means higher electricity costs, which amplifies solar savings.
Other Cities in Rhode Island
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Providence, RI?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Providence is approximately $18,720 before incentives ($3.12/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $13,104. Rhode Island RECs; property tax exemption; net metering at full retail.
How many peak sun hours does Providence get?
Providence, RI receives an average of 4 peak sun hours per day and approximately 197 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Providence?
The average solar payback period in Providence is approximately 6.6 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 $36,646.
Does Providence have net metering?
Yes, Providence 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 Providence, RI?
Absolutely. With a 6.6-year payback period and $36,646 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Providence. The 30% federal tax credit and above-average electricity rates help make solar financially attractive.