Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Bristol, Rhode Island. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A local, veteran-owned and operated company specializing in high-end residential and commercial solar installations. They are highly regarded for their custom design process, exceptional customer service, and deep knowledge of the Rhode Island energy market and incentives. They handle the entire process from design to permitting to installation.
As a premier SunPower master dealer, this company offers some of the most efficient solar panels on the market, backed by a strong 25-year comprehensive warranty. They are a trusted regional installer with a strong focus on the New England market, providing robust financing options and expertise in both battery backup and energy efficiency.
While not a traditional installer, this non-profit organization runs "Solarize" campaigns in Rhode Island towns, including those in Bristol County. They pre-vet and select top-tier local installers (like Revision Energy and others) to offer competitive, group-purchasing discounted prices to residents. This provides a curated, low-risk path to solar with vetted quality and community support.
The home solar market in Bristol, Rhode Island, is active and competitive, characterized by a high standard of quality due to strong state incentives and an environmentally conscious population. The market features a mix of specialized local installers and larger regional companies that serve the broader area. **Competition Level:** Moderate to High. While there may not be a dozen installers physically located within Bristol's small borders, numerous highly-rated companies from neighboring Portsmouth, Providence, and even Southeastern Massachusetts actively compete for projects in Bristol. Homeowners have a solid selection of quality providers. **Average Quality:** The average quality of solar providers serving Bristol is quite high. Rhode Island's licensing requirements and popular state incentive programs, like the RI Renewable Energy Fund (RI-REIP) rebate, tend to attract reputable, professional installers who are well-versed in local codes and interconnection processes. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with the national average, typically ranging from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$22,400 - $28,000**. However, after applying the 30% federal tax credit and the state-level RI-REIP rebate, the net investment for homeowners can be significantly reduced, often by 40-50%, making solar a financially attractive option in the Bristol area.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Bristol regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Bristol, Rhode Island.
For a typical 6-8 kW system in Bristol, the gross cost before incentives ranges from $18,000 to $28,000. Rhode Island offers excellent incentives, including a state tax credit of up to $1,500 and the Renewable Energy Growth (REG) program, which provides performance-based incentives on top of net metering. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, these can reduce your net cost by 40-50%.
Bristol's climate is generally favorable for solar. Coastal breezes can help keep panels cool in summer, improving efficiency. While winter brings shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient at low light and the angled snow often slides off quickly. The key is annual production, and systems are sized to account for seasonal variations, reliably generating power year-round.
Installation requires a building permit from the Bristol Building Official. If your home is in a historic district or is a designated historic structure, you will need a Certificate of Appropriateness from the Bristol Historic District Commission. Your installer will typically manage this process, ensuring compliance with the Rhode Island State Building Code and National Grid's interconnection requirements.
Look for providers licensed in Rhode Island with strong local experience, as they will be familiar with Bristol's specific permitting and historic district rules. Check reviews on platforms like Google and EnergySage, and verify they are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Always get multiple quotes and ask for references from recent installations in Bristol or nearby towns.
High-quality panels and racking systems are engineered to withstand coastal conditions, including high winds (meeting RI building codes for wind loads) and salt corrosion. Reputable installers use marine-grade hardware and mounting systems rated for the environment. Additionally, your homeowner's insurance typically covers solar panels, but it's wise to confirm your policy details, especially for storm-related damage.