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In Rhode Island on April 29, 2026 OER submitted  supplemental budget article amendment options related to Rhode Island’s virtual net metering program to the Governor’s Office and the Office of Management and Budget.

Per Article 11, Section 10 allows eligible net-metering systems to make a one-time, irrevocable election for a fixed $0.19/kWh credit for 25 years, increasing 2.75% annually from 2028.

Among other things the Rhode Island PUC must approve an implementing tariff by December 1, 2026.  The order also retains full authority over its administration, with limits on changes affecting opted-in projects. The amendments also reduce the remote net metering cap for ground-mounted systems from 275 MW to 125 MW.

Next Steps

• Proposed supplemental budget article amendments must be transmitted to the House and Senate Finance Committees by May 1, 2026.
• OER, in consultation with participating state agencies, must complete a longer-term review of behind-the-meter net metering and the Renewable Energy Growth Program and submit the findings to the Governor’s Office and OMB by October 1, 2026.
• The RIPUC must approve an implementing tariff by December 1, 2026.

As background, Executive Order 26-01 highlights rising electricity costs driven by changes in federal energy policy and reduced clean energy incentives. As part of this order, Governor Daniel J. McKee is advancing a ratepayer relief budget article to address rising electricity costs, with projected savings of approximately $151 million in 2027 and more than $1 billion over the next 5 years for utility ratepayers. This order directs the Office of Energy Resources to review the state’s net metering and renewable energy programs.

In addition, the Division of Public Utilities and Carriers must evaluate and communicate the ratepayer impacts of major energy legislation by creating ratepayer impact notes. These notes will estimate effects on utility bills and be shared with both policymakers and the public in plain language.