The resources you need to make SOLAR EASY are right here! 

Our goal is to help you understand and navigate the process of going solar. Through these resources, learn about current opportunities, policies and the pathways to installing residential solar, from working through a bid from an installer to tax benefits and financing. Contact us with questions!

Solar-Ease Resources

Solar How-To Videos:
Interested in installing solar at your home or business but not sure how to get started? These short videos from MREA and Climate Smart  explain everything you need to know. Spoiler alert: it's really easy! 
Video #1: Simple Steps to Going Solar
Video #2: Solar Financing Options & Considerations
Residential Solar Basics 2-Pager (PDF - right click and save below)
Although a couple years old, these resources above are all quite relevant!
Partner Resources
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We hosted a fantastic virtual Solar Happy Hour and Q&A - if you want a great overview of how to go solar and have an hour to listen, we recommend checking out the recording - linked HERE.
​Our Solar-Ease partners include:

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Solar Financing Basics

Tax Credits
Federal: As of now, federal tax credits for residential solar energy systems are available at 26% through Dec 31, 2022. The credit is set to decrease to 22% for 2023 and then expire entirely for residential systems after 2023.  We are hopeful that federal legislation (e.g., Build Back Better Act) will extend these tax credits. After 2021, the credit for commercial systems will continue permanently at 10%. 
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  • 26% for systems placed in service after 12/31/2019 and before 01/01/2023
  • 22% for systems placed in service after 12/31/2023 and before 01/01/2024
  • There is no maximum credit for systems placed in service after 2008.
  • ​The home served by the system does not have to be the taxpayer’s principal residence.

The tax credit can be spread across multiple years if it exceeds your annual tax liability.  It is important to note that this credit could end or change. ​Stay tuned. 

​And here's a good website that is tracking federal tax credits.

State: Residential taxpayers in Montana who install alternative energy (non-fossil fueled) systems are eligible for tax credit up to $500 per individual or $1,000 per household if married taxpayers file jointly but this expires this year, Dec 31, 2021!.
A Couple of Loan Options

Montana Department of Environmental Quality  (DEQ) offers an Alternative Energy Revolving Loan Program funded by air quality penalties collected by the DEQ. Energy conservation measures installed in conjunction with an alternative energy project can also be funded through the program. Interest rates for 2018 are fixed at 3.50%.

Clearwater Credit Union offers Solar Loans. Call or visit their website for more information. 
Solar Energy, Missoula-Style!  Solar Process Flowchart
Navigate the flow-chart below to go step-by-step through the process of understanding the local solar landscape, and then chart your own path! We explain a few of the details in the sidebar to the right.
Energy Smart: energy savings and renewables go hand in hand! Residential energy accounts for nearly a quarter of our community's carbon emissions. Visit our Energy Smart page to learn ways you can reduce energy use at home. 
Creative Ways to Support Solar
Not everyone can get rooftop solar arrays but every one can benefit from solar energy. Help us support better policy, encourage and educate your friends and neighbors, and share your solar stories with us!