Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Glendive, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading regional solar installer based in Billings, MT, with a strong focus on residential systems across Montana and Wyoming. They are known for comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to installation and maintenance, with deep knowledge of Montana-specific incentives and net metering policies.
A well-established, locally-owned Montana contractor specializing in renewable energy systems. They offer robust design services for both grid-tied and off-grid solutions, making them an excellent choice for rural properties outside of city limits. Their expertise extends to energy efficiency assessments to maximize savings.
A multi-state installer with a significant presence in Montana, known for professional project management and high-quality installations. They are a certified installer for major equipment manufacturers and offer strong warranties. Their larger scale provides access to a wide variety of financing options and leasing programs.
The home solar market in Glendive, Montana, is characteristic of a rural region: there are no dedicated solar installation companies physically headquartered within the city limits. Therefore, the market is served by reputable regional contractors based primarily in Billings (approximately 220 miles west), who regularly service the entire Eastern Montana area. Competition is moderate but professional, with these established players offering high-quality service. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before the 30% federal tax credit. This translates to a typical gross cost of **$15,000 to $25,000** for a 6-8 kW system. Key factors influencing the local market include Montana's favorable net metering policy, the lack of state sales tax on solar installations, and the specific need for both grid-tied and robust off-grid solutions for more remote properties in Dawson County.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Glendive regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Glendive, Montana.
Solar panels actually operate more efficiently in cooler temperatures, which can benefit production during Montana's crisp, sunny winter days. While winter days are shorter, Glendive receives abundant sunshine year-round, with summer providing long daylight hours for peak production. Snow can temporarily reduce output, but panels are installed at an angle to encourage shedding, and the reflective snow can sometimes increase production on clear days.
The gross system cost for a typical home in Glendive ranges from $15,000 to $25,000 before incentives. Crucially, Montana offers a state tax credit of up to $500, and you can combine this with the 30% federal solar tax credit. Local financing options include loans from Montana-based credit unions, and you should also check for any specific programs from your utility, Dawson County Electric Cooperative or Montana-Dakota Utilities.
You will need an electrical permit from the City of Glendive or Dawson County, depending on your location. The most critical step is submitting an interconnection application to your local utility (Dawson County Electric Cooperative or Montana-Dakota Utilities) for approval to connect your system to the grid. A reputable local installer will handle this entire process, ensuring compliance with the Montana Net Metering and Interconnection Rules.
Prioritize providers with extensive local experience in Eastern Montana's specific climate and utility requirements. Look for Montana-based, licensed and insured contractors, and ask for references from recent installations in Dawson County. Verify they are familiar with the interconnection processes for your specific utility and can provide a detailed production estimate tailored to Glendive's solar insolation.
While technically possible, going fully off-grid in Eastern Montana is challenging and expensive due to extended periods of low winter sun and high energy needs for heating. Most homeowners opt for a grid-tied system with net metering, which acts as a virtual battery. For true off-grid setups, a very large solar array coupled with a substantial battery bank and a backup generator is typically required to ensure reliability through harsh winters and multi-day storms.