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4 Best Solar Companies in Missoula, MT

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Written By David Cusick

Last Updated April 2024

Rooftop solar is one of the most easily accessible forms of renewable energy for Missoula homes. Adopting solar energy can help you save money and reduce your carbon footprint, but you want to make sure you find a reputable installer. That’s why, after properly vetting installers, we put together a guide to the most reputable solar companies in Missoula. These installers offer high-quality service.

Our Recommended Providers

Top Pick
4.7/5
  • High-quality Maxeon solar panels
  • Nearly 30 years in business
  • Great customer service

Top 4 Best Solar Companies in Missoula

Big Sky Solar & Wind

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1308 River St, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 360-5148 bigskysolar-mt.com

Informative resources

Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Panel installation
Battery storage
Cleaning and maintenance

PETES ELECTRIC

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2407 Harve Ave W, Missoula, MT 59801 (406) 543-3086 peteselec.com

Free quotes

Reliable customer support

Clear pricing policy

Services Offered

Panel installation

Freedom Energy

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2642 Whites Ln, Victor, MT 59875 (406) 207-8181 gofreedomenergy.com

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Free quotes

Family-operated business

Services Offered

Battery storage
Financing assistance
Consultation
Panel installation

D.J.'s Electric, Inc.

D.J.'s Electric, Inc. Logo

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201 Old Corvallis Rd, Hamilton, MT 59840 (406) 363-1972 djselectric.com

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Free quotes

Clear pricing policy

Reliable customer support

Services Offered

Cleaning and maintenance
Panel installation
Skilled repairs
Today's Homeowner Ranking Methodology

Today's Homeowner looks at dozens of datapoints on solar companies to come up with our data-driven rankings. It's not possible for a company to pay for preferential treatment in our rankings. We look at the following key factors in determining who should top our list:

  • Company Experience
  • Real User Reviews
  • Company Reputation
  • Accreditations and Licenses
  • Service Area
  • Customer Service
Have questions about our methodology or company ratings? Reach out to FindAPro@TodaysHomeowner.com.

How To Choose a Solar Company

Putting solar panels on your roof could reduce your electricity payments while benefiting the planet by reducing your carbon footprint through renewable energy use. Key considerations when researching local solar installers are as follows.

Check Licensing

It's important to hire a licensed solar installer. This help guarantee that the work is done correctly using current installation best practices. Solar jobs in Montana need a licensed electrician under any of three circumstances:

  • The system is rated for over 90 volts
  • The system is connected to a utility grid
  • Your locality requires a licensed electrician install the panels
. For solar water heating systems, you'll need a master plumber to do the job regardless of your panels' capacity.

Read Customer Reviews

Check TrustPilot, the Better Business Bureau (BBB), Google Reviews, and other review sites to see what past customers have to say about local solar providers. Detailed reviews on these platforms can help you evaluate a provider's integrity and customer service. Avoid providers with few or mainly poor reviews.

Compare Multiple Quotes

To find a solar installer that fits your budget, ask for free, detailed quotes from three to five providers. The quotes should list all costs as well as all solar equipment included. Looking at several quotes helps you identify the option that best fits your budget.

Ask About the Warranty

High-quality solar installations should have robust workmanship and performance guarantees. The workmanship warranty covers any installation issues like cracks in the panels, poor wiring, or poor alignment. The output warranty guarantees an energy generation baseline. Strong warranties reflect a solar provider's confidence in its installations.

Evaluate Financing and Incentives

Solar energy can help lower your energy expenses over time. Be sure to consider these aspects when judging the cost and value of solar panels.

  • Compare system purchase options: Solar panels can be purchased upfront or financed through a lease or loan. Confirm important financing details such as annual percentage rate (APR), fees, payment schedule, and ownership implications when financing your solar system.
  • Research federal and state tax credits: A 26% federal tax credit for solar the applies to total system costs is available through 2032. Many states also offer incentives. These credits offer substantial savings for solar buyers.
  • Look into utility rebates: More rebates might be available from utility companies looking to encourage homeowners to go solar. Contact your local utility provider to learn rebate values and qualification criteria, so you can calculate your possible savings.

Cost of Solar Installation in Missoula

The cost of home solar panels in Missoula varies depending on several factors, including your system's expected capacity and the type of panels you'll use. Generally speaking, a typical solar energy system costs $3,470 per kilowatt, not including labor, preliminary work, or permit fees. Most solar systems in Missoula are 17.1 kilowatts, and the typical Missoula homeowners spends $41,500 after accounting for federal tax refunds. Some homeowners may prefer to lease solar panels and reduce upfront costs.

Missoula Solar Incentives Guide

Incentive Type: Property Tax Incentive

Website: oregon.gov

Incentive Amount:

100%

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Incentive Amount:

100%

Incentive Type: Rebate Program

Website: northwesternenergy.com

Incentive Amount:

See program website for details.

Incentive Type: Loan Program

Website: deq.mt.gov

Incentive Amount:

$40,000

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: deq.mt.gov

Incentive Amount:

100%

Incentive Type: Personal Tax Credit

Website: ecowatch.com

Incentive Amount:

30% federal tax credit for systems placed in service after 12/31/2021 and before 01/01/2033. Good for: solar water heat, solar photovoltaics, biomass, geothermal heat pumps, wind (small), fuel cells using renewable fuels.

Frequently Asked Questions About Solar in Missoula, MT

A solar photovoltaic (PV) system can generate power to run any electric system or appliance in your home. More specifically, you can install a solar water heating system.

There are a number of benefits to home solar energy. You can qualify for tax benefits, raise your property values, and reduce emissions. With the right storage equipment, solar panels can also offer you additional energy security and offer some protection from power outages.

Yes. The grid in Missoula already uses a large share of renewable energy sources, and you may be able to sell your excess generated energy to your utility for additional cost savings.

Generally speaking, your energy bills will decrease significantly after you install solar panels. This is because you're using the energy you generate for free rather than buying it from your power company. In Missoula, the average amount someone can save is $2,280 per year. With net metering programs offered by many utilities, you could ultimately make a profit from your system when your payback period is done.

Yes, solar panels can still provide you with energy during a grid outage. To ensure that your solar system is able to keep working during a power outage, make sure to choose a quality solar provider and look for a solar system that includes a battery backup.

Some frequently-used types of home solar panels in Missoula include monocrystalline, thin-film and polycrystalline. Monocrystalline panels are balanced and efficient, while thin-film and polycrystalline panels pair good performance with greater upfront value. Ask your local provider about which solar panels they work with.

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