Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Augusta, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A well-established, Montana-born company specializing in custom residential solar solutions for both grid-tied and off-grid properties. They are known for their deep expertise in handling Montana's unique climate and their focus on high-quality, durable components suited for harsh winters. They provide comprehensive services from initial consultation and design to installation and long-term maintenance.
On Site Energy is a leading renewable energy contractor based in Great Falls, placing them in a key position to serve the Augusta area. They have a strong reputation for professional residential installations and are a certified dealer for major brands like Generac PWRcell. They offer robust financing options and are experts in state and federal incentives.
Based in Helena, PureWest Solar is a trusted local contractor that has expanded into solar energy, bringing their longstanding reputation for quality home services with them. They offer integrated services, combining solar installation with energy efficiency assessments and electrical work, providing a holistic approach to home energy management.
The home solar market in and around Augusta, Montana, is characterized by its rural nature and specific energy needs. Due to the limited local competition within Augusta itself, homeowners primarily rely on regional contractors from cities like Great Falls, Helena, and Bozeman. The market quality is high, as the companies that succeed in this region are experienced in dealing with Montana's extreme weather, complex off-grid requirements for remote properties, and navigating interconnection policies with utilities like Northwestern Energy. Competition is moderate but specialized. While there aren't dozens of installers vying for business, the established players are highly competent and reputable. Typical pricing for residential systems is generally in line with the national average, ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before incentives. However, off-grid systems tend to be more expensive due to the necessity of battery storage. There is strong consumer interest driven by a desire for energy independence, especially in rural areas prone to power outages, and the availability of federal tax incentives (ITC) makes solar a financially viable option for many homeowners.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Augusta regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Augusta, Montana.
Augusta's climate is excellent for solar, with high summer sun hours maximizing production. Winter snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to help snow slide off, and their dark surfaces accelerate melting. Importantly, cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency, and clear winter days can still yield strong production, making a well-designed system effective year-round.
The average home solar system in the Augusta area ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Montana offers a state tax credit of up to $500, and you remain eligible for the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC). Furthermore, systems are exempt from state property tax increases, and NorthWestern Energy's net metering program provides bill credits for excess energy sent to the grid.
The ideal installation time is late spring through early fall to avoid winter weather delays. The process from signing a contract to activation typically takes 2 to 4 months. This timeline includes system design, securing permits from Lewis and Clark County, the physical installation, and the final inspection and interconnection approval from NorthWestern Energy.
Prioritize providers with proven experience installing in Montana's rural and variable climates. Look for local or regional companies with strong references in Lewis and Clark County, as they understand specific permitting and interconnection processes. Verify they are licensed, insured, and offer robust warranties. Be cautious of out-of-state companies that may not provide adequate long-term service support in our area.
A properly sized grid-tied system with net metering is designed to handle this. Your system overproduces in sunnier months, banking credits with NorthWestern Energy. You then use these credits to offset usage during less productive winter months, effectively balancing your annual energy costs. For backup during power outages, you would need to add a battery storage solution, which is an increasingly popular option for rural homeowners.