Solar Panel Savings in Billings, MT
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Billings, Montana. Based on 5.1 peak sun hours/day and 13.7¢/kWh average electricity rate.
5.1
Peak Sun Hours/Day
13.7¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
9.5 yr
Payback Period
$19k
25-Year Savings
Billings Solar Overview
Calculate Your Billings Solar Savings
Billings average: $109/mo
South-facing roofs produce the most energy
Add $8,000-$12,000 for whole-home battery backup
Annual Production
kWh/year
Annual Savings
per year
Net System Cost
after 30% ITC
Payback Period
break-even time
25-Year Total Savings
$41,741
Monthly Savings
$102
Federal Tax Credit
$4,950
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Billings | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $16,500 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$4,950 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $11,550 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.75/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Billings
Sun Hours vs National Average
Billings gets 13% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 153 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 53.8°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,544 sq ft — enough for a 85-panel system
Billings Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $16,500 system, that's a $4,950 credit. Valid through 2032.
Montana State Incentives
Montana property tax exemption for solar; net metering at retail rate.
Net Metering — NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy offers net metering in Billings. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Billings
3.7
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
61
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.8
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 8,935 kWh annual production with a 6kW system. EPA average: 0.417 metric tons CO2 per MWh, 10,632 kWh per US home.
Solar Energy in Billings, Montana
Billings, Montana receives an average of 5.1 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 13.7¢ per kWh from NorthWestern Energy, below the national average, but with rates rising 2-3% annually, the long-term savings are still meaningful.
A typical 6kW solar system in Billings produces approximately 8,935 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $1,222 annually. The system pays for itself in about 9.5 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 16+ years of the system's warranty life.
Billings has a solar penetration rate of 3.5% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 104 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Billings, MT?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Billings is approximately $16,500 before incentives ($2.75/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $11,550. Montana property tax exemption for solar; net metering at retail rate.
How many peak sun hours does Billings get?
Billings, MT receives an average of 5.1 peak sun hours per day and approximately 153 sunny days per year. This is above the national average of 4.5 hours, making it an excellent location for solar energy.
What is the solar payback period in Billings?
The average solar payback period in Billings is approximately 9.5 years. After payback, your solar panels generate essentially free electricity for the remaining 15-20 years of their warranty. Over 25 years, total savings can reach $19,000.
Does Billings have net metering?
Yes, Billings has access to net metering through NorthWestern Energy. This allows you to earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, significantly improving your solar investment returns.
Is solar worth it in Billings, MT?
Absolutely. With a 9.5-year payback period and $19,000 in 25-year savings, solar is an excellent investment in Billings. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.