Best 4 Solar Companies in Missoula, MT

How To Choose the Best Solar Company in Missoula

The price and efficacy of solar panels often depend on the provider that mounted them. Here are some important factors to keep in mind while searching for a solar provider.

Licensing and Training

Solar jobs in Montana need a licensed electrician under either of three circumstances: if the system is rated for over 90 volts, if your locality requires a licensed electrician install the panels, or if the system is connected to a utility grid. For solar water heating systems, you'll need a master plumber to do the job regardless of your panels' capacity. Solar installers can also pursue certifications from standards organizations and trade groups. The most prestigious ones in the industry come from the NABCEP. Most company websites will prominently display earned credentials, but you should also ask your estimator for more information.

Cost of Solar Panels in Missoula

The kind of solar panels you purchase dictates how much electricity you can produce. Monocrystalline panels and high-quality and give you the best performance but cost more upfront. Polycrystalline panels produce less power, but they're worth it if you want a traditional panel style without the high cost. Thin-film panels aren't meant for large home installations, but they're excellent for small projects like sheds and RVs.

You can also add electric car (EV) chargers and battery backup systems. These will increase your total installation cost, but they can enhance your solar system's performance. Not all solar contractors offer these extras, so look for a company that installs them if it's important for you.

You can plan to spend about $17,350 on average for a five-kilowatt solar energy system in Missoula. Check the table in this section to get an idea of how much Missoula solar companies might quote for your specific solar system's price.

Financing Solar Energy in Missoula

Solar companies offer multiple different financing options to increase your savings and lower your costs. Though some providers offer unique payment plans, the most common are solar leases, solar loans, cash payments and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Though it requires a large up-front payment, cash is the most affordable choice because it qualifies you for solar incentives and doesn't accrue interest. Solar loans are the second most effective option. As with a home or auto loan, you'll pay a monthly rate towards system ownership, including interest. You can still apply for valuable solar incentives, and depending on your lender, you could put as little as $0 down. Solar leases allow you to pay a monthly fee to rent your panels, while a PPA lets you pay a fluctuating rate based on only the energy you use. We generally advise against these options since you will not have ownership of your system and are disqualified from solar incentives, but they might be suitable in particular circumstances. We suggest working with a company that offers multiple financing options. Ask each agent about what's available, and secure more than one estimate for the best odds of keeping within your spending limits.

The table below lists the average payback periods for different capacities of solar systems in Missoula.

You can claim a 26% federal solar tax credit from the IRS for new residential solar systems purchased before 2032. Additionally, utilities and local governments may have their own rebates and financing plans that could reduce your total cost even more.