Windmist Farm in Jamestown, Rhode Island, is the perfect example of how sustainable choices can benefit both the environment and the economic bottom line. Martha Neal and her husband George decided to pursue a clean energy system in 2018, redefining the farms carbon footprint, and significantly reducing their energy bills.  

Since the 1960s, Windmist Farm has been family-owned and operated, providing high quality, grass-fed and pasture-raised meat and eggs, along with vegetables and other products.  

“We require a lot of storage for these products; we run 5 chest freezers as well as 2 walk-in freezers and a cooler. We looked into solar years ago and decided it was too costly, but in 2018 the town of Jamestown ran an incentive program called Solarize Jamestown, and it seemed like the right time to look into it again,” said Martha.  

With the help of several funding sources including the Rhode Island Agricultural Energy Program, USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program, and Rhode Island Commerce’s Renewable Energy Fund, Windmist Farm installed a 25.21-kilowatt solar panel system on top of two southern facing barn roofs. 

Windmist Farm now saves a remarkable $18,000 each year in energy costs, and the payback period was calculated at just under 4 years.  

“I absolutely recommend my farmer friends look into these solar grant opportunities, because the people that are involved are very helpful, and the energy savings are well worth the time and effort it took to apply for the grants and have the project completed.” 

If you are a farmer or small business owner looking for ways to save money on your energy bills, please contact our helpful staff at the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources. 

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) has been traveling around Rhode Island to interview recipients of the Erika Niedowski Electric Bike Rebate Program, which offers standard and income-qualified rebates for electric bikes. These bikes offer enhanced speed and distance compared to conventional bikes while still providing exercise and the joy of biking. 

Elizabeth Petersen and her family have enjoyed e-biking in Newport for many years. Recently, she purchased her very own Aventon Soltera e-bike, which she utilizes for both commuting and recreation activities, thanks to OER's e-bike rebate initiative. 

“It’s a much easier way to get around here in Newport, especially during the summertime,” said Elizabeth. “You can avoid traffic and you don’t have to park it.”  

Although Elizabeth has owned this specific e-bike for a short time, her prior experiences have led her to plan to install a rear rack capable of carrying one to two weeks' worth of groceries. The e-bike, which was pre-assembled by Dash Bicycles in Providence, comes equipped with a front cargo basket that she finds handy when she goes to get coffee from local shops to bring to the beach. 

Some of the advantages Elizabeth noticed while owning an e-bike is being able to go on a bike ride before work.  She says, “it’s a lot faster and easier than taking a normal bike, it's just easier putting into my day to day”. 

Another advantage she enjoys is using her e-bike in place of a car most places she goes. This not only saves her time in traffic but also saves money on fuel cost, as well as reduces her carbon footprint.  

Elizabeth emphasizes how useful the throttle can be to people who may struggle with starting and pedaling a bike. E-bikes allow the rider to use less physical effort with the motor assist, helping them to enjoy bike riding again.  

Elizabeth is very passionate about e-bikes and encourages anyone interested to apply to the rebate.  

To learn more about rebates for e-bike visit: drive.ri.gov/ebike. 

Last season, Rhode Island College’s Women’s Basketball team took home the title of Little East Champions and made it to the NCAA Division III Championship Semi-Finals for the first time in history. Now, they get to start off the 2024 season in the Murray Center with brand-new lighting.  

The Office of Energy Resources has taken on a significant energy efficiency project with RIC to replace existing lighting systems with state-of-the-art LED fixtures and integrated controls across four major facilities: the Murray Center, Clark Science Lecture Halls, Fogarty Auditorium, and Penfield Hall.  

OER’s Lead by Example team has been working closely with RIC to provide technical support throughout the completion of the project. Installation has already commenced, and we anticipate completion by January 2024. This endeavor has been funded by OER using proceeds from the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative, complemented by energy efficiency rebates provided by Rhode Island Energy. 

The gymnasium has converted 64 lighting fixtures to LEDs that face upward using the ceiling's white paint to reflect light back onto the court, providing indirect lighting that does not shine directly in players' eyes. This new lighting will not only improve the players’ and spectators’ experience, but it will also provide RIC with major energy savings.  

“We are very excited about the lighting upgrades that were completed in the Murray Center,” said Jim Murphy, Assistant Director Facilities & Operations. “OER has been a great partner throughout this project, and we are proud to be leading by example for other schools to follow.” 

Upon completion of this project, every facility within Rhode Island College will be illuminated with LED lighting—a remarkable achievement in energy efficiency and sustainability. 

The Rhode Island State Police, in collaboration with the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, have implemented energy efficiency upgrades to multiple State Police facilities. 

In May 2023, the State Police received a Lead by Example Clean Energy Award due to their significant reduction in energy use and carbon emissions. This project focused on converting the Rhode Island State Police Public Safety complex to LED lights with intergraded controls, making the facility 100 percent LED and saving the state over $45,000 per year in energy costs. 

The police upgraded the HVAC systems at the training academy barracks located in Foster. The building, built in 1955, is a single-story structure that spans 7,732 square feet and until now has largely remained unchanged. 

Historically, this facility relied on an oil heating system. Replacing the system with a state-of-the-art heat pump ensures greater efficiency and also significantly reduces their carbon footprint, along with increasing comfort within the training barracks. These facilities are primarily a training hub for state police recruits and provide sleeping quarters, classrooms, and various amenities. 

“Overall, the energy efficiency project has resulted in a more efficiency, comfortable, safer and sustainable facility,” said Captain Ron Longolucco, Division Administrative Officer for Rhode Island State Police. “The main benefits of the HVAC system upgrade include Improved efficiency, better ability to meet the buildings thermal needs by having the flexibility to control the heating and cooling to different areas as needed which enhance the indoor air quality and occupancy comfort.”  

An important step in installing a new heat pump is also ensuring air tightness and improving the weatherization of the building. To enhance the thermal performance of the building, the police installed new windows and bolstered the attic insulation. This project's energy savings are estimated to result in nearly 100 tons of avoided carbon emission per year, taking another substantial step towards helping the state achieve the goals outlined in the 2021 Act on Climate. 

Sarah Doherty joined OER in September 2023 as the Thermal Programs Manager. We are thrilled to have her on our team and asked her to introduce herself to our readers.

Please tell us about your background.

I spent the last five years working as the operations manager for the energy efficiency and electrification department at Energy New England, a Massachusetts-based joint action agency that represents half of the state’s municipal light plans. There, I oversaw a ten-member team that provided residential and commercial services like energy assessments and rebate program design for heat pumps, weatherization, appliances, solar panels, lawn equipment, and electric vehicles.

What led you to work at OER?

I value public service and the role was a great opportunity to expand upon my previous experience in public power. I’m looking forward to increasing my knowledge of thermal energy and implementing energy efficiency and electrification programs for Rhode Islanders.

What do you see as the biggest opportunity for Rhode Island in adopting clean energy?

The Clean Heat Rhode Island program is a wonderful opportunity for us to help state residents not only install clean heating but also weatherize their homes and upgrade their electric service. 

Name: Sarah Doherty

Job Title: Thermal Programs Manager

Hometown: Tuxedo, New York

Favorite Food: Avocado, egg, and cheese on an English muffin.

Favorite hobby and/or sport: I bought my first house in September 2022, so anything DIY home improvement and gardening.

Ideal Vacation: Paris in the late spring or the west coast of Ireland in the summer.

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) has been traveling around Rhode Island to interview recipients of the Erika Niedowski Electric Bike Rebate Program, which offers standard and income-qualified rebates for electric bikes. These bikes offer enhanced speed and distance compared to conventional bikes while still providing exercise and the joy of biking. 

Larry Davis is an e-bike owner in Newport who uses his bike for running errands and riding around his favorite spots in Rhode Island, including Fort Adams. Larry was able to purchase his e-bike through OER’s e-bike rebate program. Since he purchased the e-bike in November, Larry has put over 600 miles on it. 

E-bikes are electric bicycles with a motor that gives riders a boost and has a rechargeable battery. With an e-bike, users can save money on fuel and maintenance by replacing daily car trips with e-bike rides. They offer the advantages such as, making it easier to travel greater distances, conquer hills more easily, reduce perspiration, and reduce their carbon footprint. 

“Applying for the rebate was very easy,” said Larry. “The application was straight forward, and I had no trouble with it.”

The Erika Niedowski Memorial Electric Bike Rebate Program is an extension of DRIVEEV. The program has been open since October 24, 2022, and it has given a total of 660 rebates as of July 31, 2023. 

Hills are no longer a barrier for Larry’s bike rides. The motor on the e-bike aids the rider when going up hills, making the commute easier and faster than on a traditional bike. This gives Larry the option to completely replace his car and use his e-bike for commuting and recreation. 

E-bikes require very little maintenance. Larry has not noticed any differences when comparing the e-bike to a traditional bike, other than having to charge the battery. 

Owning an e-bike has made Larry more motivated to go out on bike rides and encourages anyone interested in an e-bike to apply for the rebate. 

To learn more about rebates for e-bike visit: drive.ri.gov/ebike.

The Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources (OER) has been traveling around Rhode Island to interview recipients of the Erika Niedowski Electric Bike Rebate Program, which offers standard and income-qualified rebates for electric bikes. These bikes offer enhanced speed and distance compared to conventional bikes while still providing exercise and the joy of biking.

Kent Kreutler, a retired resident of Charlestown, Rhode Island, is thoroughly enjoying his new Aventon electric bike. After purchasing the bike for $1,800, he was delighted to receive a $1,000 rebate provided by OER, which is available to income-eligible residents.

"Electric bikes allow you to go further and faster, which makes them a viable form of transportation for getting around town," said Kent.

He decided to invest in the Aventon Pace 500 Version 2, a class 3 electric bike capable of reaching speeds up to 28 miles per hour. The online purchase and application process were seamless, and Kent picked up his bike at Best Buy, ready to hit the road.

To his surprise, Kent’s electric bike quickly became his preferred mode of transportation for visiting friends, exploring the coastline, and running errands efficiently. By choosing the e-bike over his car, Kent not only saved significantly on gas costs but also reduced his carbon footprint, contributing to a cleaner and greener Rhode Island.

Kent has had his e-bike for over 8 months and values the motor of his electric bike, which effortlessly assists him up inclines, making Rhode Island's hilly terrain easy to tackle. He has also equipped his e-bike with various accessories, including a bike rack and a back light.

Maintenance for Kent's e-bike is simple. Apart from routine chain oiling, the only additional task is charging the battery after each outing, which typically takes two hours. The e-bike's easy upkeep makes it an appealing choice for everyday transportation.

"Every time I go out, it's a memorable experience," said Kent.

Kent encourages traditional bike riders to apply for the e-bike rebate. He emphasizes the program's smooth application process and affordability for income-eligible residents. Kent's journey is a testament to the program's success in empowering individuals to make sustainable transportation choices, fostering a cleaner and more vibrant Rhode Island.

To learn more about rebates for e-bike visit: drive.ri.gov/ebike

To view more of Kent’s favorite destinations, visit his webpage: https://www.keywebstop.com/photos/environs.shtml

Greg Ohadoma joined OER recently as our Energy Justice Manger responsible for ensuring OER programs are equitable, accessible and inclusive. We are thrilled to welcome him to our team and asked him to introduce himself to our readers.

Please tell us about your background?

I have experience in both energy policy and outreach. Before joining the office, I worked with the Northeast Clean Energy Council, Green Energy Consumers Alliance, RISE Engineering and have interned with Senator Sheldon Whitehouse.

What led you to work at OER?



In 2016, I was fortunate enough to work as an intern with OER and thoroughly enjoyed my time here. Working with the office parked my interest in clean energy policy and programs. I went on to work at various roles in the clean energy industry. When I saw an opportunity open up at OER to work in Energy Justice, something that’s very personal to me, I couldn’t pass it up.

What do you see as the biggest opportunity for Rhode Island in adopting clean energy?



In my opinion, the biggest opportunity for Rhode Island in adopting clean energy is its size. We not only have the opportunity to be leaders, but also to set the example for the rest of the country to follow.

Name: Gregory Ohadoma

Job Title: Energy Justice Manager

Hometown: Norwalk, CT

Favorite Food: Pizza

Favorite hobby and/or sport: Music production & football

Ideal Vacation: A cruise around the Mediterranean

The Newport Wastewater Treatment Facility (WWTF) is located along the J.T. Connell Highway, about 1,000 feet inland from the Newport coast. The Newport facility serves 41,600 customers and treats an average of 8.4 million gallons of wastewater per day. Newport’s system also treats stormwater runoff during rain events with a capacity up to 19.7 million gallons per day.

The Newport WWTF recently completed a renewable energy project. It installed four roof mounted solar systems, two carports, and one ground mounted solar farm. All these systems were interconnected in 2020.

The project totaled 790 solar panels with an estimated annual energy savings of 328,000 kWh annually. This is enough energy to power 55 homes in Rhode Island.

Clean energy projects are essential for meeting the State’s climate goals. Solar installations do not require any fossil fuel inputs, so they do not emit greenhouse gases or other harmful pollutants. The widespread adoption of solar will help to reduce the environmental burden of personal, industrial, and commercial processes which rely on electricity generated by the burning of fossil fuels.

The total cost of the seven PV projects before incentives was $1,861,962. Newport WWTF received a $227,286 Renewable Energy Fund grant. It also received funding from Rhode Island Infrastructure Bank (RIIB) from the Efficient Buildings Fund (EBF) and its Wastewater program. The DEM wastewater department helps to regulate the Newport WWTF.

The town of West Warwick is home to about 29,000 residents and ranks 10^th in population out of 39 cities and towns in Rhode Island. West Warwick is also home to the Echo Valley Apartment Complex, which provides affordable housing to about 100 families.

Echo Valley recently completed a 426 kW rooftop community solar project, which is now interconnected and serving  residents of the complex and the surrounding community. This solar system is expected to produce over 581,000 kWh annually, which is equivalent to the amount of electricity needed to power about 100 homes in RI. This solar project became operational in August 2020, and is 100 percent subscribed.

This community solar project is a part of the Community Remote Distributed Generation (CRDG) program. This program allows a power management company to pass the monetary value of renewable electricity generated by the solar array  onto its subscribers in the form of bill credits on their monthly  electric bill. In addition, qualifying Low to Moderate Income (LMI) subscribers may receive a rebate up to $500. This money can  be used to provide further relief to LMI customers beyond the savings generated by the community solar project.

This is the first community solar array for an affordable housing complex in Rhode Island. Community solar projects allow Rhode Island residents to share the benefits of solar power, even if they cannot install solar panels on their roof or property. This project and other community solar projects can be found by visiting the RI Community Solar Marketplace, at https://risolarmarketplace.com/all-projects/. 

"PowerMarket is incredibly proud of its role in subscribing the low-income residents of the Echo Valley Apartments to this community solar project. This is a realization of our goal to bring guaranteed savings to low-income communities through local, renewable energy. We are eager to take the lessons learned and experiences acquired here to ensure the successful inclusion of low-income residents in community solar programs nationally," said Jason Kaplan, COO at PowerMarket.