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Best Solar Companies in Montana

ShopSolar and Purelight Power are our top picks

    • Best overall
      Purelight Power
      4.5(59)
    • DIY projects
      ShopSolar
      4.7(218)
    Author picture
    By: Kathryn Parkman
    +1 more
    Author picture
    Edited by: Justin Martino

    Best Solar Companies in Montana

    Based on local customer satisfaction ratings, Purelight Power is the best company for professional solar panel installation in Montana. ShopSolar is our pick to buy equipment for do-it-yourself projects.

    Why trust ConsumerAffairs?
    • Our recommendations are based on what reviewers say.
    • 4,808,390 reviews on ConsumerAffairs are verified.
    • We require contact information to ensure our reviewers are real.
    • We use intelligent software that helps us maintain the integrity of reviews.
    • Our moderators read all reviews to verify quality and helpfulness.

    Our picks for the best solar companies in Montana

    1. Best overall: Purelight Power
    2. Best for DIY projects: ShopSolar

    The ConsumerAffairs Research Team compared popular solar companies on ratings and reviews, warranties, availability and other factors to select the top picks for this guide. 

    Our picks may be Authorized Partners that compensate us, but this does not affect our evaluations. Read the full methodology for all the details on how we make solar company recommendations.

    Compare Montana’s top solar energy companies

    Our Montana solar company picks

    NOTE: Solar panel systems installed after Dec. 31, 2025, are not eligible for the 30% federal solar tax credit.

    Our top pick overall

    Purelight Power

    Purelight Power
    4.5
    59 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    25 years
    Payment options
    Cash, loan, leases, PPA
    Year founded
    2017
    Read Reviews
    Pros
    • Easy to get started
    • Efficient installation teams
    • Helpful sales reps
    Cons
    • Not the cheapest option
    • Some communication issues

    Purelight Power makes switching to solar simple and stress-free. Reps keep you informed throughout the process, according to recent verified customers. Happy reviewers also appreciate that the sales reps are honest and not pushy, and that installation crews work quickly and clean up well.

    “The team at Purelight made the switch to solar a simple one. We are grateful for the transparent conversations and the low pressure decision.”
    Jessa Missoula, MT
    “Start to finish the Purelight Power team was very informative and assisted greatly with the process to get approval from the power company to operate the solar power system.”
    Tom Helena, MT
    “The level of professionalism in working with Purelight Power from day 1 was amazing. They took us through all the steps from a proposal with engineering to discussing financing options. Once we said yes they kept us informed throughout the process. The installation of panels on our roof and connection to our system was seamless and quite a quick 2 day process.”
    Jay Bozeman, MT
    • Services: Purelight Power specializes in grid-tied and hybrid solar panel systems plus energy monitoring for residential and commercial clients.
    • Equipment: Panels and other components are sourced from Hyundai, Yingli, Tesla, Canadian Solar, Enphase Energy, SolarEdge and elsewhere.
    • Warranties: Purelight Power guarantees your solar system’s parts and production for 25 years. There is also a 50-year non-prorated warranty on any roofing work.
    Our pick for DIY projects

    ShopSolar

    ShopSolar
    4.7
    218 reviews
    Max. panel efficiency
    Varies
    Panel warranty
    Varies
    Payment options
    Cash, loan
    Year founded
    2018
    Read Reviews
    Pros
    • Great for RVs and outbuildings
    • Price-match guarantee
    • 30-day return policy
    • Lifetime customer support
    Cons
    • No professional installation
    • Some shipping and delivery delays
    • Occasional issues with defective or damaged products

    ShopSolar is an online retailer that sells custom solar kits and other equipment like solar storage batteries and generators. It’s an awesome place to buy everything you need for a do-it-yourself solar project. We like that it has a nice selection of equipment, fast deliveries and good communication.

    You pay for your order in full upfront through ShopSolar’s secure website. Financing is available at rates from 0% to 36% APR.

    “It’s been a good experience with ShopSolar. I got what they call a solar generator. It’s solar panels, a battery, and an inverter converter wiring — a complete kit, and their rep gave me a discount, which was very nice. The product works well and I can use it in various locations if I wish. That’s what I planned on doing with it.”
    Kent Great Falls, MT
    “I bought the kit because they were most recommended, and ShopSolar’s customer service has been great.”
    James Great Falls, MT
    • Equipment: You can find new and used solar panels, solar storage batteries, inverters, charge controllers, cabling and hardware, mounts and racks. Equipment comes from quality brands like REC, Renogy, Canadian Solar and EcoFlow.
    • Warranties: ShopSolar is an authorized distributor of all the brands it sells, so all solar equipment is covered by the individual manufacturers’ warranties.

    Solar Companies in Montana Buyers Guide

    Jump into our guides and start learning

    In this guide

    Top Picks

    See who reviewers like

    Purelight Power logo
    ShopSolar logo
    See our top picks

    Simplify your search

    Switch to solar with a system built for you.

      If you’ve been thinking about switching to solar power but feel overwhelmed by the many options in Montana, you’re not alone. We’re here to help you compare your options and get the best deal.

      Key insights

      In Montana, a typical residential solar panel system costs $8,982 to $25,663, depending on the size of your system and what financial incentives you qualify for.

      Jump to insight

      If you want to minimize your initial cost, you can typically lease your solar equipment.

      Jump to insight

      Watch out for solar scams. Some solar reps might use pushy sales tactics, and you could end up with monthly bills higher than expected.

      Jump to insight

      What to look for in a solar company in Montana

      Solar panels are a long-term investment — most systems last 25 years or more. That means choosing the right installer is just as important as choosing the right equipment. 

      Based on our research, the best solar energy companies share a few traits: strong customer reviews, high-quality equipment and reliable warranties. Here are the key steps to finding the right fit.

      1. Know what you want

      If you’re going solar to save on energy costs, you have to make sure your system is big enough to generate enough power.

      A typical Montana household needs a 7.1 kW system to offset energy costs enough to make going solar worth it. Depending on your household energy usage, you might need a smaller or larger system.

      How do I know what size system I need?

      On your electric bill, it should say how many kilowatt-hours (kWh) you used last year. Divide that number by 1,200 to estimate your system size in kilowatts (kW). For example, if you used 12,000 kWh last year, you need a 10-kW system.

      If you have an electric car, ask about EV charger options. Homeowners in more rural parts of Montana should also consider critter guards to protect the panels.

      » RELATED: How many solar panels do you need for your house?

      What to know about solar batteries

      Solar panels only generate electricity when the sun is shining. A solar battery stores the extra energy your panels produce during the day so you can use it at night or during a power outage.

      Without a battery, that unused energy goes to the grid, and you’ll still depend on utility power after dark.

      Adding a battery can provide backup power and reduce electricity costs, but it comes with a higher upfront price. Solar battery costs are generally between $7,000 and $18,000. It’s a must if you want real energy independence and essential if you go off-grid.

      2. Read reviews

      Look at reviews on platforms like ConsumerAffairs and other forums to see real customer experiences. Watch out for these red flags:

      • Equipment failures that aren’t resolved quickly
      • Misleading sales tactics about costs or savings
      • Billing and contract issues

      Local experience matters too. Companies with a history in Montana understand state-specific incentive programs, utility rules, permitting requirements and how to design systems that perform well in the region’s sometimes harsh climate. 

      3. Check credentials

      The Montana State Electrical Board doesn’t have special rules for installing solar panels. But if the electrical work uses more than 90 volts, you must hire a licensed electrician in Montana to do it. And if your solar system is connected to the power grid, a licensed electrician has to do the work.

      Confirm your installer also has:

      • Insurance coverage to protect your home during installation
      • NABCEP certification (the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners is a respected national credential for solar installers)

      4. Compare quotes

      Get quotes from at least three or four different solar installers in Montana. This lets you compare different proposed equipment, pricing, financing terms and estimated energy production.

      Most installers set the price according to the system's wattage, with a typical cost between $2.50 and $5 per watt. In Montana, the average cost per watt is $2.57.

      Pro tip
      Upgrade old appliances before going solar. A more eco-friendly water heater, refrigerator or clothes dryer reduces how much electricity your household needs. That means you can get a smaller system, which will be cheaper overall.

      5. Read the fine print

      The contract should be easy to understand. Focus on warranties for panels, inverters and installation workmanship, as well as any performance guarantees.

      Make sure the quoted price includes installation, permits and grid hookup. Watch for hidden fees like monitoring or maintenance service charges. If anything doesn’t make sense, ask for clarification.

      How much does it cost to go solar in Montana?

      Average solar panel costs in Montana typically range from $8,982 to $25,663. The size of your solar panel system is a big factor in your total cost. It also depends on what incentives you’re eligible for, the condition of your roof and how much sunlight exposure it gets.

      Average solar panel costs by system size in Montana

      NOTE: The estimated costs above do not include the cost of a solar storage battery, which sometimes costs as much as the panels.

      How can I pay for solar panel installation?

      Getting solar panels is like buying a car. You could pay cash, but many finance instead. A solar loan works like most other types of loans — there is an application process, and you pay it back over time with interest.

      Leasing solar panels is sometimes cheaper in the short term, but you’ll be disqualified from some of the best financial incentives, including the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » SOLAR PANELS: Lease vs. buy

      Solar incentives in Montana

      The federal solar investment tax credit (ITC) is now set to expire at the end of the year, much earlier than previously scheduled. This means you have until Dec. 31, 2025, to install and pay for a system to qualify for the 30% credit.

      The ITC expired at the end of 2025.

      On the bright side, a couple of solar incentives in Montana still encourage homeowners to invest in renewable energy:

      • Property tax exemption: Homeowners who install solar systems don't pay property taxes on the added home value for 10 years. This benefit is capped at $20,000 for single-family homes.
      • Rebate program: Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative offers rebates to go solar for specific reasons, such as watering stock.
      • Loan program: Residents can borrow up to $40,000 to install renewable energy systems, including solar. These loans have a 10-year repayment period. The interest rate, currently 3.5% for 2025, is reviewed annually.

      Are solar panels worth it in Montana?

      The general consensus is that solar investments are worth it in Montana. On average, Montana homeowners with solar panels avoid $41,487 in total utility costs over 25 years.

      Homeowners with solar panels typically save $20,000 to $90,000 over 25 years.

      The return on investment of a solar panel installation depends on your system's efficiency and size. Assuming an upfront purchase, it takes about 12.23 years to break even (when your savings with solar panels make up for the cost).

      But it doesn’t work out for everybody. If your panels stop working and your company won’t help, you could end up paying more (especially if you took out a loan). That’s why it’s important to choose a solar company you can trust.

      » STILL NOT SURE? Solar energy pros and cons

      FAQ

      Can I get free solar panels in Montana?

      There’s no totally free option to get solar panels in Montana that we’re aware of. Unfortunately, scams that promise free solar panels can cost consumers a lot of money. However, you can lease solar equipment to reduce your upfront cost. You won’t own your panels, though, so you won’t be eligible for the federal solar investment tax credit.

      » FREE SOLAR PANELS: Are they really free?

      Is my HOA allowed to restrict solar panels?

      There are no laws in Montana that prevent homeowners associations from restricting solar panels.

      How do I know if my house is a good candidate for solar?

      We suggest using the National Renewable Energy Laboratory’s PVWatts Calculator to estimate how much electricity a solar panel can produce over a year on your house.

      Solar photovoltaic (PV) technologies, more commonly known as solar panels, absorb sunlight and convert it into usable electricity.

      So, plenty of unshaded roof space that faces south or west is best for optimal sun exposure. Montana averages 4 to 5 peak sun hours each day. However, if you have a lot of shading around your house, they might not get enough sun to power your home.

      Should I replace my roof before going solar?

      We’ve heard about problems with leaks and roof damage caused by the installation of solar panels, leading to frustration and difficulties in getting repairs. As a rule of thumb, if your roof is more than 10 years old, consider fixing it before going solar. Installing solar panels on an old roof might mean you have to remove the panels, replace your roof and then reinstall the panels. This will cost around $5,000 for a 19-panel setup.

      How does net metering work in Montana?

      Net metering is a system of give-and-take between you and your utility company. It lets you access power from the grid when your panels don’t generate enough electricity.

      Net metering also lets you earn credits for sending any excess solar energy to the grid. These credits can offset the cost of electricity consumed at other times.

      In Montana, you get compensation for your energy as a credit on your electric bill. How much you earn and limitations can vary from utility company to utility company. For example, NorthWestern Energy has a 50-kilowatt (kW) size limit for systems, while Yellowstone Valley Electric Cooperative has a size limit of 15 kW.

      Methodology

      We started with a list of popular solar companies and narrowed it down to those serving Montana. We then ranked them based on the factors that matter most to homeowners:

      Local customer satisfaction (65%)
      We analyzed reviews from verified customers in Montana. Companies with the most recent positive ratings were scored higher.

      Price satisfaction (7%)
      We evaluated customer feedback on overall cost and value.

      Installation satisfaction (7%)
      We looked at reviews of the installation process, including professionalism, timeliness and overall quality of the work.

      Customer service satisfaction (7%)
      We evaluated feedback on how responsive and helpful each company is before, during and after installation.

      Payment options (7%)
      We considered companies that make paying for solar easier by offering multiple financing and payment options.

      Warranties and guarantees (7%)
      We compared equipment and workmanship warranties. Our top picks provide 10 to 25 years of coverage.

      Not sure how to choose?

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        Guide sources

        ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this guide include:

        1.  DSIRE, "Montana Programs." Accessed Nov. 11, 2025.
        2. Interstate Renewable Energy Council (IREC), “Solar Licensing Database.” Accessed Nov. 11, 2025.
        3. Montana Legislature, “Net Metering in Montana.” Accessed Nov. 11, 2025.
        4. Montana Renewable Energy Association, “Permitting Processes for Solar Photovoltaic Systems in Montana.” Accessed Nov. 11, 2025.  
        5.  Montana Renewable Energy Association, “Going Solar and Selecting a Contractor.” Accessed Nov. 11, 2025.
        6. Federal Trade Commission, “Solar Power for Your Home.” Accessed Nov. 11, 2025.

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