Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Oakland, Rhode Island. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
Trinity Solar is one of the largest and most established residential solar providers in the Northeast. They offer a comprehensive turnkey solution, handling everything from initial consultation and system design to installation, financing, and maintenance. Their strong reputation and long tenure inspire significant customer confidence.
A reputable, locally-owned Rhode Island company known for high-quality custom installations and exceptional customer service. They specialize in both grid-tied and off-grid systems and have deep expertise in the state's specific incentives and net metering policies.
While not a direct installer, this non-profit organization is a critical resource for Oakland residents. They run "Solarize" campaigns that pre-vet top-tier local installers (like SunPower by Earthlight), negotiate discounted group pricing, and provide unbiased education. This is often the best way to ensure quality and value.
** The home solar market in Oakland, Rhode Island, is characterized by high-quality, competitive regional providers rather than a high density of local contractors. Due to Rhode Island's excellent state-level incentives, including the Renewable Energy Fund (REF) grants and a strong net metering policy, the market is robust and attractive for homeowners. The competition is strong among a handful of established companies, which helps maintain high service standards. Typical pricing for a residential system in this region falls between **$2.80 and $3.50 per watt** before incentives. For an average 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of approximately **$22,400 to $28,000**. However, after applying the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and Rhode Island state incentives, the net investment can be significantly reduced, often by 40-50%. The overall market maturity ensures that reputable installers are well-versed in navigating these financial incentives, making solar a financially viable option for many Oakland residents.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Oakland regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Oakland, Rhode Island.
For a typical Oakland home, a solar system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives, depending on system size and energy needs. Rhode Island offers excellent incentives, including the state's Renewable Energy Fund (REF) rebate, which can reduce costs by thousands, and a 0% sales tax on solar installations. Combined with the 30% federal tax credit, the net cost is significantly lowered, making solar a strong financial investment.
Oakland experiences all four seasons, with sunny summers and snowy winters. Solar panels are efficient in cold, clear weather and will produce energy year-round. While winter days are shorter and snow cover can temporarily reduce output, panels are installed at an angle to help shed snow. The annual sunlight in Rhode Island is more than sufficient for solar to be highly effective, with peak production from spring through fall offsetting lower winter generation.
Yes, you will need a building permit from the Town of Burrillville (which Oakland is a village of) and must comply with the local zoning ordinances. Rhode Island has a "Solar Rights" law that protects your access to sunlight, but local rules may govern system placement, especially for ground-mounted arrays. A reputable local installer will handle the entire permitting process with the town and National Grid, ensuring your system meets all requirements.
Look for providers licensed in Rhode Island with strong local experience. Check reviews, ask for Oakland-specific references, and verify they are certified by the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP). Local companies understand the specific permitting process with Burrillville and National Grid's interconnection rules. Always compare multiple detailed quotes that include equipment specs, warranty coverage, and projected production for your home.
With a standard grid-tied system, your solar panels will automatically shut off during a power outage for safety reasons, even if the sun is shining. To have backup power, you need to install a solar battery storage system, like a Tesla Powerwall or similar. This is a valuable consideration in Oakland, where winter storms can cause outages, as a battery can keep critical circuits running. Some installers offer integrated solar-plus-battery solutions.