Net metering credits you at the full retail rate for excess solar production. But many states are shifting to net billing at lower avoided-cost rates. Here is what your utility actually pays you.
Rhode Island Net Metering Policy
Net metering with retail credits (20% reduction for systems installed after April 15, 2023) plus separate REG program payments
| Credit Type | 1:1 retail (pre-April 2023) / 80% retail (post-April 2023) |
| System Cap | 125% of annual on-site consumption |
| Policy Trend | Favorable but evolving. Post-April 2023 systems receive 20% reduction in net metering credits. REG payments remain separate and unaffected. |
Utility-by-Utility Breakdown
| Utility | Credit Type | Excess Handling | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Energy | partial retail | Monthly rollover, annual cash-out at avoided cost | 80% of retail rate (post-April 2023). Pre-April 2023 systems grandfathered at 1:1. REG payments separate from net metering. |
| Pascoag Utility | 1:1 retail | Monthly rollover | Municipal utility, separate interconnection |
| Block Island Power | 1:1 retail | Contact utility | Island utility, higher rates ($0.35/kWh) |
Impact on Your Solar Savings
In Rhode Island, your net metering policy directly affects how much your solar system is worth. With 1:1 retail (pre-April 2023) / 80% retail (post-April 2023) credits, excess solar production is valued at the full retail rate. This affects your payback period and 25-year savings.
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Maximizing Value in Rhode Island
- Size your system to match annual consumption (avoid large excess at year-end)
- Shift high-usage appliances (laundry, dishwasher) to solar production hours
- Monitor production monthly to ensure your system is performing as expected
Net Metering in Other States
See Net Metering Applied to Your RI Quote
Our calculator factors in your specific utility's net metering policy for accurate savings.