Solar Panel Savings in Great Falls, MT
Calculate how much you can save with solar panels in Great Falls, Montana. Based on 4.6 peak sun hours/day and 11.6¢/kWh average electricity rate.
4.6
Peak Sun Hours/Day
11.6¢
Avg Rate (¢/kWh)
12.9 yr
Payback Period
$11k
25-Year Savings
Great Falls Solar Overview
Calculate Your Great Falls Solar Savings
Great Falls average: $98/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
$32,006
Monthly Savings
$78
Federal Tax Credit
$5,166
Cumulative Savings vs System Cost
Cost Breakdown
| Item | Great Falls | National Avg |
|---|---|---|
| Gross System Cost (6kW) | $17,220 | $17,100 |
| Federal Tax Credit (30%) | -$5,166 | -$5,130 |
| Net System Cost | $12,054 | $11,970 |
| Cost Per Watt | $2.87/W | $2.85/W |
Solar Potential in Great Falls
Sun Hours vs National Average
Great Falls gets 2% more sun than the national average.
Climate Advantages
- 170 sunny days per year
- Average temperature: 47.7°F — cooler temps actually improve panel efficiency
- Average roof size: 1,513 sq ft — enough for a 84-panel system
Great Falls Solar Incentives & Programs
Federal Investment Tax Credit (ITC)
30% of total system cost deducted from federal taxes. For a $17,220 system, that's a $5,166 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 Great Falls. Earn credits for excess solar energy sent to the grid, reducing your electric bill further.
Environmental Impact in Great Falls
3.4
Tons CO2 Offset/Year
55
Equivalent Trees Planted
0.8
Homes Worth of Energy
Based on 8,059 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 Great Falls, Montana
Great Falls, Montana receives an average of 4.6 peak sun hours per day, providing excellent conditions for residential solar installations. With electricity rates averaging 11.6¢ 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 Great Falls produces approximately 8,059 kWh per year, saving homeowners an estimated $937 annually. The system pays for itself in about 12.9 years, after which you enjoy essentially free electricity for the remaining 12+ years of the system's warranty life.
Great Falls has a solar penetration rate of 3% — indicating early-stage solar adoption with tremendous growth potential as prices continue to fall. The cost of living index of 102 (national average: 100) is near the national average.
Other Cities in Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do solar panels cost in Great Falls, MT?
The average cost of a 6kW solar panel system in Great Falls is approximately $17,220 before incentives ($2.87/watt). After the 30% federal Investment Tax Credit, the net cost is about $12,054. Montana property tax exemption for solar; net metering at retail rate.
How many peak sun hours does Great Falls get?
Great Falls, MT receives an average of 4.6 peak sun hours per day and approximately 170 sunny days per year. This is near the national average, providing good conditions for residential solar panels.
What is the solar payback period in Great Falls?
The average solar payback period in Great Falls is approximately 12.9 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 $11,371.
Does Great Falls have net metering?
Yes, Great Falls 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 Great Falls, MT?
Yes, solar is a solid investment in Great Falls. While the 12.9-year payback is moderate, you'll still save $11,371 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit and local incentives help make solar financially attractive.