Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Inverness, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A highly reputable, locally-owned and operated company specializing in both solar electric (PV) and solar thermal systems. They are known for their personalized service, deep knowledge of Montana's climate and incentives, and expertise in both grid-tied and complex off-grid battery-based systems, which is crucial for rural properties.
While headquartered in Washington, A & R Solar has a strong operational presence in Montana and is a certified installer for major manufacturers. They are recognized for their high-quality system design, professional installation crews, and comprehensive service from consultation to maintenance. They have extensive experience with the net metering policies of utilities like Northwestern Energy.
As a SunPower Master Dealer, this company offers some of the most efficient solar panels on the market, backed by a strong manufacturer's warranty. They are a well-established Montana business that provides robust financing options and leasing programs, making solar accessible for a variety of budgets. They focus on maximizing energy production for homeowners.
** The home solar market in and around Inverness, Montana, is characterized by a small number of highly specialized, regional providers rather than national chains. The competition is moderate but of high quality, with companies competing on expertise and service rather than price alone. Given the rural nature of the area, there is a significant demand for and expertise in **battery storage and off-grid solutions**, alongside standard grid-tied systems. **Average Quality:** The quality is generally high, with providers holding necessary state licenses and certifications (like NABCEP) and forming partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers (e.g., SunPower, Tesla, Generac). **Competition Level:** Low to moderate. While there are few direct local competitors, the established regional players are experienced and reputable. This benefits the consumer as companies must maintain excellent service to retain their standing. **Typical Pricing:** Pricing is competitive with national averages but can be influenced by the logistics of serving remote locations. As of 2024, the average cost for a residential system before incentives is typically in the range of **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt**. For a typical 8 kW system, this translates to a gross cost of **$20,000 - $28,000**. The 30% federal tax credit significantly reduces this net cost. Montana also offers a state tax credit and has property tax and sales tax exemptions for renewable energy systems, which local installers are well-versed in explaining.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Inverness regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Inverness, Montana.
Solar panels are highly effective in cold, sunny weather, and Montana's clear winter days can yield good production. However, heavy snow accumulation can temporarily reduce output, so proper panel tilt and a sturdy, code-compliant roof mount are critical for snow shedding. Installers in the region are experienced in designing systems to handle the snow load and maximize exposure to the lower winter sun angle.
For a typical home in Inverness, a solar system costs between $15,000 and $25,000 before incentives, with pricing influenced by Montana's rural logistics. Crucially, you can combine the 30% federal solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) with NorthWestern Energy's net metering program. Montana also has a state property tax exemption for renewable energy systems, ensuring your home's assessed value won't increase due to the solar installation.
Prioritize providers with extensive experience in Montana's specific climate and with NorthWestern Energy's interconnection process. Look for licensed, bonded, and insured contractors familiar with local building codes and snow load requirements. It's essential to choose a company that offers robust post-installation service and monitoring, as local support is invaluable for maintenance, especially after severe weather events common in Hill County.
NorthWestern Energy offers net metering, which credits you for excess solar energy sent to the grid, offsetting your usage when the sun isn't shining. This is particularly beneficial during Montana's long summer days when you may produce a surplus. Your credits roll over month-to-month, helping to balance lower winter production, making it a financially sound policy for maximizing your system's annual value in this climate.
While not required, adding battery storage is a highly recommended consideration for Inverness homeowners due to the rural setting and potential for weather-related grid outages, especially in winter. A battery allows you to use stored solar energy during power failures, providing critical backup. Given Montana's frequent sunny days even in cold weather, a properly sized system can often keep a battery charged for emergency use.