SunPowerPeek

Nebraska vs Rhode Island Solar Comparison

Nebraska gets more sun (4.6 hrs/day) while Rhode Island has the faster payback (6.5 years).Rhode Island offers higher 20-year savings at $48,600.

Nebraska

4.6 hrs

11yr payback

$26,400

20yr savings

Rhode Island

3.8 hrs

6.5yr payback

$48,600

20yr savings

Side-by-Side Comparison

MetricNebraskaRhode Island
Peak Sun Hours4.6 hrs3.8 hrs
Cost per Watt$3.05$3.40
6kW System Cost$18,300$20,400
Federal Tax Credit30%30%
State Tax CreditNoneNone
State RebateNoneNone
Net MeteringPartial Net MeteringFull Net Metering
Electricity Rate13.08¢/kWh28.08¢/kWh
Payback Period11 years6.5 years
20-Year Savings$26,400$48,600

Verdict

Rhode Island is the better state for solar ROI with $48,600 in 20-year savings and a 6.5-year payback period. Nebraska has more sun exposure at 4.6 hrs/day, making it ideal for maximum energy production. Both states qualify for the 30% federal solar tax credit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is solar better in Nebraska or Rhode Island?

Nebraska gets more sun (4.6 peak hours/day vs 3.8). Rhode Island has a faster payback (6.5 years) and Rhode Island offers higher 20-year savings ($48,600).

How do solar costs compare between Nebraska and Rhode Island?

A 6kW system costs $18,300 in Nebraska vs $20,400 in Rhode Island before incentives. Both qualify for the 30% federal tax credit.

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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA