Compare the highest-rated home solar professionals in Somers, Montana. All contractors are licensed, insured, and verified through our rigorous screening process.
A leading local solar installer in the Flathead Valley, known for comprehensive service from initial consultation and system design to professional installation and maintenance. They emphasize custom solutions for both grid-tied and off-grid homes and have strong partnerships with top-tier equipment manufacturers.
A well-established Montana contractor specializing in renewable energy systems. They offer a full suite of services, including energy efficiency assessments to maximize the benefit of a solar installation. They are known for their expertise in complex installations and their knowledge of local and national incentives.
Provides dedicated solar services to Northwest Montana, focusing on residential clients. They handle the entire process, including permitting and interconnection with Flathead Electric Cooperative. They also offer maintenance and cleaning services to ensure long-term system performance.
** The home solar market in and around Somers, Montana, is characterized by a small but highly specialized and competitive group of regional installers. The market quality is generally high, with companies staffed by technicians holding certifications from organizations like NABCEP (North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners). As a community within the Flathead Valley, homeowners are served by reputable local businesses rather than national corporations, which often translates to more personalized service. The primary utility, Flathead Electric Cooperative, has a net metering program, which is a key driver for solar adoption. Competition is moderate among the handful of established providers, who differentiate themselves through expertise in Montana's climate, knowledge of state-specific incentives (like the alternative energy system tax credit), and experience with both grid-tied and off-grid systems common in rural areas. Typical pricing for a residential system is competitive with national averages, generally ranging from **$2.50 to $3.50 per watt** before applying the 30% federal tax credit and any state incentives. This results in an average gross cost of **$25,000 to $35,000 for a 10 kW system**, though final costs are highly dependent on roof complexity, equipment choices, and energy storage needs.
4.7+ star average from verified customer reviews
All contractors are properly licensed and insured
10+ years average experience in the industry
Familiar with Somers regulations and climate
Get answers to common questions about home solar services in Somers, Montana.
Solar panels are highly effective in Somers' climate. While snow cover can temporarily reduce winter production, panels are installed at an angle to help snow shed, and cold temperatures actually improve panel efficiency. The abundant sunny days in spring, summer, and fall generate significant surplus energy, which can be banked as credits with Flathead Electric Cooperative to offset lower winter production, making annual net metering very effective.
A typical system in Somers costs between $18,000-$30,000 before incentives. Crucially, Montana offers a state tax credit of up to $500 per year for five years ($2,500 total), and the 30% federal tax credit still applies. Combined with Flathead Electric's net metering program and rising utility rates, the payback period for most Somers homeowners is typically 8-12 years, with decades of free power thereafter.
You will need an electrical permit from Flathead County. Montana has a "Solar Rights Act" (MCA 70-17-101) which prohibits HOAs from outright banning solar installations, though they can have reasonable rules on placement for aesthetic purposes. It's essential to check your specific HOA covenants and work with a local installer who is familiar with the county's permit process to ensure a smooth approval.
Prioritize providers with a strong physical presence and proven track record in the Flathead Valley. They should be intimately familiar with local snow loads, roof structures common to the area, and Flathead Electric's interconnection process. Look for certified (NABCEP preferred), licensed, and insured installers, and ask for references from recent installations in nearby communities like Kalispell or Lakeside to verify local experience.
For a standard installation, plan for 2 to 4 months. The timeline includes system design, securing Flathead County permits, scheduling the installation (which can be weather-dependent, especially in winter), and finally, the required inspection and interconnection approval from Flathead Electric Cooperative. Starting the process in spring or early summer is ideal to ensure installation during favorable weather and to maximize first-year production.