MontanaSolar Panel Costs & Savings
Montana averages 4.5 hrs of peak sun per day with an average payback period of 11.5 years. Homeowners can save $24,200 over 20 years.
Peak Sun Hours
4.5 hrs
per day
6kW System Cost
$18,600
before incentives
Payback Period
11.5 yrs
average
20-Year Savings
$24,200
estimated
Solar Cost Breakdown in Montana
| Item | Amount |
|---|---|
| 6kW System Cost ($3.1/W) | $18,600 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,580 |
| Net Cost | $13,020 |
Net Metering
Full Net Metering
Electricity Rate
12.81¢/kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$107/mo
Solar Incentives in Montana
Federal Solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
The federal ITC allows homeowners to deduct 30% of solar installation costs from federal taxes. Available for systems installed through 2032, stepping down to 26% in 2033 and 22% in 2034.
Solar Potential by ZIP Code in Montana
| ZIP | City | Sun Hours | Annual Savings | Payback |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 59101 | Billings | 4.6 hrs | $1,061 | 12.3 yrs |
| 59301 | Miles City | 4.6 hrs | $1,061 | 12.3 yrs |
| 59001 | Absarokee | 4.5 hrs | $1,038 | 12.6 yrs |
| 59401 | Great Falls | 4.5 hrs | $1,038 | 12.6 yrs |
| 59601 | Helena | 4.4 hrs | $1,015 | 12.9 yrs |
| 59201 | Wolf Point | 4.4 hrs | $1,015 | 12.9 yrs |
| 59701 | Butte | 4.4 hrs | $1,015 | 12.9 yrs |
| 59801 | Missoula | 4.2 hrs | $969 | 13.5 yrs |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Montana?
A typical 6kW solar system in Montana costs approximately $18,600 before incentives. After the 30% federal tax credit ($5,580), the net cost is approximately $13,020.
How long does solar take to pay for itself in Montana?
The average solar payback period in Montana is 11.5 years, slower than the national average of 9.4 years. After payback, homeowners enjoy free electricity for the remaining system life.
Does Montana have net metering?
Montana has full net metering. Homeowners receive full retail rate credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid.
How much sun does Montana get for solar?
Montana averages 4.5 peak sun hours per day, which is 0.0 hours below the national average. A 6kW system produces approximately 9,855 kWh per year.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: NREL, DSIRE, EIA