Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Johnston, Rhode Island. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A locally owned and operated company specializing in end-to-end residential solar solutions. They are highly regarded for their customer service, in-house installation teams, and deep knowledge of Rhode Island-specific incentives like the Renewable Energy Fund (REF) grant.
A leading solar installer in Southern New England with a strong focus on custom system design and high-quality components. They have a reputation for engineering robust systems for both grid-tied and complex off-grid applications, including battery backups.
A multi-state operator with a significant presence in the Northeast, known for its strong financing options and partnerships with top-tier manufacturers like Tesla and QCells. They offer comprehensive services from initial assessment to post-installation maintenance.
** The home solar market in Johnston, Rhode Island, is robust and competitive, characterized by high-quality, regional installers rather than national corporations. The market quality is generally high, with companies holding necessary state licenses (Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training and Rhode Island Contractors' Registration Board) and certifications from organizations like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Competition is strong, which benefits consumers through competitive pricing and a focus on customer service. Typical pricing for a residential system in Johnston is competitive with the national average, but the strong state-level incentives, including a state grant and a sales tax exemption, significantly improve the return on investment. Most installations are grid-tied systems, but there is growing consumer interest in battery storage (e.g., Tesla Powerwall) for energy resilience. Financing options are plentiful, with solar loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) widely available from these established providers.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Johnston regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Johnston, Rhode Island.
A typical residential solar installation in Johnston ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Crucially, Rhode Island homeowners benefit from the federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), which deducts 30% of the system cost from your federal taxes. Additionally, the state offers a sales tax exemption on solar equipment and the Renewable Energy Growth (REG) program, which provides performance-based incentives for the energy your system produces over 15 years, making the net cost significantly lower.
Johnston's four-season climate is excellent for solar energy production. While summer offers the most peak sunlight hours, solar panels are actually more efficient in cooler temperatures, and they still generate significant power on cloudy days and in winter. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage snow shedding, and the reflective quality of snow can sometimes boost production. Annual production is strong, with systems designed to meet your yearly consumption needs.
Installing solar in Johnston requires a building permit from the Johnston Building Department. Your chosen installer will typically handle this process, ensuring the system meets the Rhode Island State Building Code (which includes structural and electrical requirements). While Johnston does not have restrictive aesthetic ordinances that prohibit solar, it's wise to confirm there are no specific covenants if you live in a homeowners association (HOA). Rhode Island's "Solar Rights Act" protects your right to install solar, limiting unreasonable HOA restrictions.
Look for providers who are licensed, insured, and have strong local experience in Rhode Island. Check for certifications like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). Read reviews on independent sites and ask for references from recent installations in Johnston or nearby towns like Cranston or Smithfield. A trustworthy provider will offer a detailed site assessment, explain local net metering with National Grid, and provide a clear contract with production guarantees.
Going completely off-grid in Johnston is technically possible but generally not practical or cost-effective for most homeowners due to the seasonal variation in sunlight. Staying connected to National Grid's net metering program is highly recommended. This allows you to send excess power to the grid for credits and draw power when your panels aren't producing, ensuring reliability year-round without the extreme expense of a very large battery bank for winter and extended cloudy periods.