Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Lincoln, Rhode Island. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading Rhode Island-based solar installer known for high-quality residential system design and installation. They emphasize a customer-centric approach and have deep expertise in local permitting and maximizing Rhode Island-specific incentives like the state sales tax exemption and Renewable Energy Fund grants.
A locally owned and operated company dedicated exclusively to solar and battery storage. They are highly rated for their professional consultation, clean installations, and expertise in both grid-tied and off-grid solutions. Their local focus ensures strong familiarity with Lincoln's building codes and utility requirements.
One of the longest-standing renewable energy contractors in the region, RER brings extensive experience to every project. They offer comprehensive services from initial energy assessment to post-installation maintenance and are known for handling complex installations and commercial-grade residential systems.
** The home solar market in Lincoln, Rhode Island, is **moderately competitive and of high quality**, dominated by established regional installers rather than national corporations. This is beneficial for consumers, as local companies tend to have stronger relationships with municipal inspection departments and a better understanding of National Grid's interconnection process in Rhode Island. **Average Quality & Competition:** The barrier to entry for solar installation is significant due to licensing, insurance, and expertise requirements. Consequently, the companies that operate successfully in this market are generally reputable, certified by organizations like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners), and offer strong manufacturer warranties (e.g., 25-year product and performance warranties on panels). **Typical Pricing:** As of the latest data, the average cost for a residential solar system in Rhode Island before incentives ranges from **$2.80 to $3.50 per watt**. A typical 8 kW system would therefore have a gross cost between $22,400 and $28,000. The effective cost is substantially reduced by the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), Rhode Island's state tax exemption, and potential performance-based incentives, often bringing the net investment down by 40-50%. Most local providers offer a variety of financing options, including solar loans, leases, and Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), to accommodate different financial situations.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Lincoln regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Lincoln, Rhode Island.
A typical residential solar installation in Lincoln ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and home energy needs. Crucially, you can significantly reduce this cost through the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC), and Rhode Island's state sales tax exemption on solar equipment. Additionally, National Grid offers net metering, allowing you to earn credits for excess power you send back to the grid, further improving your long-term savings.
Lincoln's climate is very suitable for solar, with ample sunny days in spring and summer for peak production. While winter brings shorter days and potential snow cover, modern panels are efficient in cold, clear weather and can still generate significant power. It's important to consider your roof's pitch and orientation; a south-facing roof with minimal shading is ideal to maximize annual energy production across all seasons.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Lincoln Building and Zoning Department. Rhode Island has streamlined solar permitting under the state's Solar Permit Act, which many towns, including Lincoln, follow to make the process efficient. Your chosen installer should handle this entire process, ensuring the system meets all state electrical codes, local zoning ordinances, and structural requirements for your roof.
Prioritize installers who are licensed, insured, and certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Choose a company with extensive local experience in Lincoln and Rhode Island, as they will be familiar with specific permitting, interconnection with National Grid, and optimal system design for our region. Always compare multiple detailed quotes, check reviews, and verify they offer strong warranties on both equipment and workmanship.
No, thanks to Rhode Island's solar property tax exemption, the added value from your solar system will not increase your Lincoln property taxes. During a standard grid-tied system outage, your panels will automatically shut off for safety (to protect utility workers), unless you have a dedicated battery storage system. Adding a battery backup is a popular option in Lincoln to provide power during outages and to maximize self-consumption of your solar energy.