Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Hungry Horse, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly respected, locally-owned and operated solar installer with a strong focus on custom-designed systems for Montana's unique climate. They are known for their expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid battery-backed systems, which are highly relevant for the more remote areas around Hungry Horse.
A larger regional company with a branch in Kalispell, bringing extensive resources and manufacturer partnerships. They offer a full suite of services from consultation to maintenance and have a strong reputation for professional installations and navigating financing and incentives.
A dedicated local contractor specializing in residential and small commercial projects in the Flathead Valley. They pride themselves on personalized service, energy efficiency assessments, and high-quality craftsmanship, making them a great option for homeowners seeking a more hands-on approach.
** The home solar market in the Hungry Horse area is characterized by a small number of high-quality, specialized regional providers rather than a high volume of local competition. The providers are primarily based in the commercial hub of Kalispell and the nearby city of Columbia Falls. Due to Montana's climate with significant snowfall and variable sunlight, the top contractors demonstrate expertise in system design optimized for these conditions, including proper panel angling for snow shedding and robust off-grid capabilities for properties outside reliable utility service. The competition level is moderate but professional; customers are typically dealing with established businesses with strong track records. Pricing is generally at or slightly above the national average, reflecting the custom nature of many installations, the logistics of serving mountainous regions, and the high quality of equipment used. However, this is offset by the strong long-term value and energy independence these systems provide, aided by federal tax incentives and knowledge of local net metering policies that these top providers expertly leverage for their clients.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Hungry Horse regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Hungry Horse, Montana.
Solar panels are very effective in Montana's climate, as they operate efficiently in cold weather and snow can reflect light, boosting production on clear days. Key considerations for Hungry Horse include proper panel tilt for snow shedding and system sizing to account for lower winter production, ensuring ample energy is generated and banked during the long, sunny summer months to offset winter usage.
The average gross cost for a residential system in Montana ranges from $18,000 to $30,000 before incentives. Homeowners in Hungry Horse benefit from the 30% federal tax credit and Montana's state-specific incentives, including a property tax exemption for the added home value from solar and a small state tax credit for renewable energy systems, which together significantly reduce the net investment.
You will need an electrical permit from Flathead County, and if you're within the Hungry Horse Fire Service Area, their approval may also be required. Montana state law (the Solar Rights Act) protects your right to install solar, limiting the ability of HOAs to outright prohibit systems, though they may have reasonable aesthetic guidelines, so checking your specific covenants is advised.
Look for installers with strong local experience in the Flathead Valley, as they understand regional weather challenges like snow loads and hail. Essential criteria include proper Montana electrical and contractor licensing, strong references from nearby projects, and partnerships with local utilities like Flathead Electric Cooperative to ensure seamless interconnection and net metering setup.
While technically possible, going fully off-grid in Hungry Horse is complex and costly due to extended periods of low solar generation in deep winter. Most homeowners opt for a grid-tied system with Flathead Electric Cooperative's net metering program, which acts as a reliable "battery," crediting you for summer surplus to use in winter, providing backup power without the high expense and maintenance of a large battery bank.