7 Best Solar Companies in Montana

The Main Types of Residential Solar Systems

Today's solar energy systems can accommodate a variety of roof shapes, budgets and energy needs. Many of the providers on our list are experts in all three of the fundamental types of solar panels, and they'll help you find the right fit during the estimate process.

Monocrystalline

In the hot summers of Montana, you'll get the best results from monocrystalline panels. Each black-hued cell has only one silicon crystal, meaning you can generate more energy with a small array. While they cost more upfront due to their more involved manufacturing process, their efficiency means you'll save more money over the longer term.

Polycrystalline

Polycrystalline solar panels have dark blue cells made of multiple silicon fragments. Aside from their lower average price, they have a less wasteful manufacturing process.

However, polycrystalline panels are less space-efficient than monocrystalline panels, so you'll need more space on your roof for a high-capacity array.

Thin-film

Thin-film solar panels use various metal alloys instead of silicon crystals. Some homeowners select them for their light weight or greater compatibility with unique roof shapes. Others select them for their greater heat resistance and low-light performance. Thin-film arrays are a great choice for value in more "partly sunny" areas of Montana. They maintain efficiency as temperatures fluctuate and work with many different roof shapes.

Although some thin-film panel models are approximately as efficient as polycrystalline panels, other models are far less efficient or have very short lifespans.

Solar Purchase Options

Montana's available solar financing tools have granted more homeowners access to renewable energy than in the past. Your installer might go over the following options with you:

• Solar leases: With a solar lease, you'll make a monthly payment based on the energy the panels are predicted to produce. Your lease provider can offer benefits such as no money down, covered regular maintenance, and a guarantee which provides for refunds if your panels don't reach their predicted target efficiency. However, they aren't eligible for state or tax incentives and won't increase your property values. If you sell your house, the company will remove the panels unless the buyer decides to continue with the lease.
• Power purchase agreements (PPAs): With a power purchase agreement, your utility company will pay for your system upfront, then sell the power from your panels back to you. The cost per kilowatt you pay may be less than what you'd pay your utility company. Remember that many typical PPAs can last for 20–25 years. While you can end the PPA, there may be early termination fees you'll have to pay.
• Financing: Solar loans function like any other financing. You'll own the system once you finish paying off the loan, and since you're purchasing the panels, you can take advantage of tax breaks and other incentives during the payback period. A credit check may be required, but some specialty solar lenders may have better options for people with a less-than-ideal credit history.

Besides the purchase price of the panels, you'll also be responsible for your contractor's labor costs and the price of electrical, roofing, or plumbing work that they delegated to other contractors. Each financing option will generally cover all of these costs.

Residential Solar Incentives and Cost Support

You might be eligible for financial incentives for installing home solar panels, like the following:

• Tax credits: Tax credits or temporary exemptions for new solar equipment are common in many U.S. jurisdictions. Consult with your tax preparer for more detailed information on what is available and the forms you need to file. Remember that no matter what, you should file Form 5695 on your federal returns to apply for a 30% credit on the value of your solar panels.
• Rebates: Contractors and governments often work with utility companies and equipment manufacturers, offering rebates to promote people to go solar. If your installer thinks you qualify for a rebate, it will help you fill out the application. If approved, you could receive the money directly or as a credit on your installation or power bills.
• Net metering: Net metering is a program that utilities and counties use to protect their grid and add renewable energy capacity. If your solar panels generate more power than you actually need, you can send the excess energy to the grid in exchange for bill credits.
• Net billing: There's a national trend toward more utilities retiring net metering in favor of net billing schemes. Fundamentally speaking, both systems work the same. However, with net billing, you sell the electricity to your utility company instead of earning credits for your excess solar generation. Compensation will usually be at a wholesale or avoided-cost rate, which is below the retail rate.

Solar Energy By the Numbers in Montana

Curious about solar energy's impact on the Montana economy? These statistics paint a good picture of the growing solar market in your area.

• Montana generates 0 MW of residential solar energy, serving 1,069 homes and growing.
• In Montana, the average new home solar array is rated for up to 10.2 kW and costs $24,618.
• A 5 kW solar energy system in Montana has an average payback period of 12.0 years. That said, you would also save $806.87 on your energy bill.
• Without solar, the average family spends about $1,284 every year on their electricity bill.
• Solar energy has enabled the creation of 308 jobs in Montana, with more added as companies grow and technology continues to improve.

Useful Resources

Want more information on Montana's solar opportunities, incentives, and regulations? Visit these online pages and reference guides:

• DSIRE: DSIRE has a wealth of information on the latest local and statewide solar incentive packages. Search by your location, utility company, and the type of solar system you're looking to install.
• PVWatts: PVWatts is a handy online tool that lets you virtually tinker with different solar configuration ideas on your property. You can find out how much energy your panels would produce and see which angles and locations would give you the best ROI.
• Best solar companies by city: If you're looking for tailored solar company recommendations in your area, Today's Homeowner has just what you need. We can recommend you the best companies in cities likeDATAPOINT_ERR_{top_live_cities(largest_cities, 5)}.