electrify cleanly: installing solar.
The Sun
It's even better when its power is harnessed to cleanly (and cheaply!) power your efficient, electrified home or commercial space. While the residential tax credit expired in 2025, solar still makes sense, especially with rising electricity rates.
Businesses, nonprofits, governments and places of worship may still be eligible for federal incentives. (Details on our financing pages).
Check out the resources below to find out how you can install solar.
Considering solar? Run the numbers!
5 Steps to Go Solar
It's now easier and cheaper to put solar on your home or business than ever before! Here are 5 simple steps to bring the clean-energy revolution to your rooftop.
1. Contact local solar installers - make sure to get at least two bids.
Best practice is to ask a company how long they've been working in Montana. The folks we've worked with would never pressure you to jump in immediately! As much as this is a great time to go solar, take the time to compare bids and figure out what is best for you, your home or business, and your finances.
While all the local folks we've worked with have great reputations, with solar taking off, there are less-stellar people entering the marketplace. Here are a few cautionary resources:
- Here's how to protect yourself from rooftop solar energy fraud
- Rooftop solar has a fraud problem. The industry is working to build back trust
- How to protect yourself from solar scams.
2. Get Free Estimates
Solar companies will ask for a copy of your utility bill to properly size your system. If you're planning to add any big electric appliances in the coming year (like an electric vehicle, heat pump, etc.) make sure to let them know so they can factor in that extra demand.
They'll work to size your system to exactly meet your need, since local net-metering agreements don't allow you to bank extra energy credits for more than one year.
3. Understand Costs & Financing Options
Your solar installer should give you information about the federal 30% tax credit and how much you can expect to get back. (This tax credit will be paid directly to you; if an installer is asking for you to pay that tax credit to them, be wary and ask follow up questions.)
There are a few solar-specific lending options available through the state and Clearwater Credit Union; learn more about financing options and tax credits here.
4. Sign a Contract
Pick the best company for your project and go! They'll facilitate all permitting and net-metering paperwork.
5. Go Solar & Celebrate!
We recommend hosting a celebration party after your meter is turned on! Invite all your neighbors and friends and inspire them to go solar, too!
Additional resources.
- Solar Smart: making it easy, Missoula-style - check out Climate Smart Missoula's website for a deeper dive.
- Solar Made Easy: A Step by Step Guide for Homeowners - A 2-page PDF that goes over the basics.
Our friends at the Montana Renewable Energy Association have a few excellent resources, including:
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