Provides funding to build or renovate affordable Zero Energy Building (ZEB) homes, where each building produces as much renewable energy as it consumes annually. The program supports demonstration projects that advance clean energy, reduce emissions, and create a pathway for scaling zero-energy affordable housing. This initiative is a collaboration between RIHousing, the Rhode Island Office of Energy Resources, and Rhode Island Energy.
There is currently no open Request for Proposals for the ZEOS Program. Visit our RFPs & RFQs page to view all open solicitations.
Per Unit Cap:
Project Cap:
Grant funds are to be used for eligible costs that directly improve energy efficiency measures. ZEOS assisted projects must be completed within three years of commitment date.
Eligible hard costs may include but are not limited to:
Solara is the newest addition to the historic Bourne Mill complex in Tiverton—a 59-unit, energy-forward development by The Armory Revival Company. The community offers modern amenities, including a fitness center, walking trail, and shared laundry facilities, with 47 units reserved for households earning 60–80% of the Area Median Income.
The development received funding from the Zero Energy for the Ocean State (ZEOS) program and integrates advanced energy-efficient and renewable technologies, including a rooftop solar PV array, electric vehicle charging stations, and high-efficiency systems for heating, cooling, and hot water—reducing environmental impact and long-term operating costs for residents.
Solara also received other state and federal fundings including the State Fiscal Recovery Fund’s Development of Affordable Homes (DAH) program and more than $11 million in Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) proceeds.
Sheridan Small Homes is a pioneering development of five net-zero, solar-powered homes located at the edge of Riverside Park in Providence’s Olneyville neighborhood. Developed by ONE Neighborhood Builders and designed through a collaboration between the developer, RISD, and Building Futures, the project exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to affordable homeownership. Each home is built to Passive House standards—one of the most rigorous energy efficiency certifications—ensuring exceptional insulation, airtight construction, and minimal energy use.
Supported in part by Rhode Island’s Zero Energy for the Ocean State (ZEOS) program, Sheridan Small Homes demonstrates how climate-conscious design can be both replicable and community-centered, offering durable, sustainable housing that meets the challenges of affordability and environmental responsibility.
Check whether your current residence is located within an eligible census tract.
Only residents of census tract 405 are eligible for the FirstGenHomeRI pilot program.
The map on the left shows the approximated eligible region.
Unsure if your address is part of the eligible region?
Type in your address below to find out (Include street #, street name, Newport, RI).
Check whether your current residence is located within an eligible census tract for application prioritization.
Applications from residents who live in the census tract listed below are prioritized.
| Central Falls | 44007010900, 44007010800, 44007011100, 44007011000 |
| Pawtucket | 44007016000, 44007015300, 44007015100, 44007015200, 44007015500, 44007016600, 44007016700, 44007017000, 44007017100, 44007016100, 44007016400 |
| Newport | 44005040500, 44005041100 |
| East Providence | 44007010100, 44007010501 |
Type in your address below to learn if you are in the targeted area. (Include street #, street name, city, RI).