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Rhode Island   Rhode Island Profile

State Profile and Energy Estimates

Changes to the State Energy Data System (SEDS) Notice: In October 2023, we updated the way we calculate primary energy consumption of electricity generation from noncombustible renewable energy sources (solar, wind, hydroelectric, and geothermal). Visit our Changes to 1960—2022 conversion factor for renewable energy page to learn more.

Profile Overview

Quick Facts

  • In May 2017, the first U.S. offshore wind farm began operating off Block Island. Wind power provided 2.5% of Rhode Island's net generation in 2021.
  • Rhode Island consumes the lowest amount energy on a per capita basis and is among the 10 states that use the least amount of energy per dollar of gross domestic product (GDP).
  • About 30% of Rhode Island households use heating oil and other petroleum products as their primary source for home heating, which is 3 times more than the U.S. rate. The 1-million-barrel Northeast Home Heating Oil Reserve can help offset supply disruptions in the region.
  • In 2022, natural gas fueled 83% of Rhode Island's electricity net generation, the second-largest share of any state after Delaware.
  • Rhode Island uses less total petroleum than all others states, except for Vermont, and is second-lowest, after New York, in petroleum use on a per capita basis.

Last Updated: November 16, 2023

More Data & Analysis in Rhode Island