Rhode Island plans to install solar carports, battery storage systems and electric vehicle charging infrastructure at two parking areas on the Capitol Hill government campus in Providence, with construction expected to begin in 2027.
The state’s Office of Energy Resources is overseeing the approximately $9 million project, which will be financed through a $4.5 million federal earmark secured by Senator Jack Reed and matching state funding.
Construction is scheduled to start toward the end of the first quarter of 2027 at the main parking lot behind the Department of Administration and another lot beside the Department of Health. The new carports will supplement existing rooftop solar installations, bringing the campus’s total solar capacity to approximately 1 MW.
Federal Tax Credit Could Cover a Significant Share of Costs
Rhode Island has made a 5% safe-harbour expenditure to help the projects qualify for the federal Clean Electricity Investment Credit. The state expects the incentive to cover 30% to 40% of eligible project costs, potentially delivering between $3 million and $3.7 million in 2028.
To qualify, both systems must be operational by late 2027, creating a relatively short construction and commissioning window.
Combined, the federal earmark and anticipated tax credit could cover as much as $8.2 million of the estimated $9 million project cost, depending on the final eligible expenses and credit amount.
The planned battery storage systems are intended to complement the solar installations, while EV chargers will expand access to charging for vehicles using the government campus.
Project Supports Rhode Island’s Lead by Example Programme
The installation forms part of Rhode Island’s Lead by Example programme, which supports energy efficiency and clean energy improvements at state facilities. The programme has backed more than 185 projects with a combined value exceeding $48 million.
By combining solar generation, battery storage and EV charging at government sites, the state aims to expand clean energy infrastructure while demonstrating its use in public-sector operations.
The project also aligns with growing demand for charging infrastructure as more drivers adopt electric vehicles.
Senators Highlight Charging and Clean Energy Investment
Senator Sheldon Whitehouse welcomed the planned investment, pointing to the need for charging infrastructure as electric vehicle adoption grows.
“Drivers are making the switch to electric vehicles because they’re cheap to run and fun to drive. I’m glad to see Rhode Island’s capital city leading the buildout of clean energy and charging infrastructure to meet this moment,” Senator Sheldon Whitehouse said. “Investments like this will help bring clean cars and big savings within reach for more Rhode Islanders.”
The project remains subject to its planned construction and commissioning schedule, with completion by the end of 2027 important to securing the anticipated federal tax credit.