Rhode Island Solar Easement Laws

Program Overview

Implementing Sector State
Category Regulatory Policy
State Rhode Island
Incentive Type Solar/Wind Access Policy
Eligible Renewable/Other Technologies Solar - Passive, Solar Water Heat, Solar Space Heat, Solar Thermal Electric, Solar Thermal Process Heat, Solar Photovoltaics, Solar Pool Heating
Applicable Sectors Commercial, Industrial, Local Government, Nonprofit, Residential, Schools, State Government, Federal Government

Summary

Rhode Island allows property owners to establish solar easements in the same manner and with the same effect as a conveyance of an interest in real property. Solar easements must be created in writing. 

In general, they must include: 

 

  1. A description of the real property involved, 
  2. A description of the angles and three-dimensional space involved; 
  3. The terms under which the easement is granted or may be terminated, and
  4. Any provisions for compensation of either property owner.

 

In addition, the state’s local zoning ordinances must address access to air and light, views, and solar access.

Authorities

Name R.I. Gen. Laws § 34-40-2
Date Enacted 1981
Effective Date 1981
Name R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-24-33
Date Enacted 8/7/1996

Contact

Christopher Kearns
Organization:
Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources
Address:
One Capitol Hill
Providence, RI 02908-5890
Phone:
(401) 574-9117
E-Mail:
christopher.kearns@energy.ri.gov