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The links and resources on this page were developed in connection with our Solar-Ease workshops in November 2017 and February 2018. If you missed the workshops or are seeking more information, the resources you need to make SOLAR EASY are right here! Check back often for updates.
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 or any of our partners with questions! |
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Solar-Ease Resources
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. |
Solar-Ease partners include: 
Energy Smart is a new initiative aimed at helping community members conserve and use energy more efficiently, because energy savings and renewables go hand in hand! Results from our community emissions inventory show residential energy accounts for a quarter of our emissions! We are challenging Missoulians to reduce home energy use 10% by 2018. Visit our Energy Smart page to learn more and take part.
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!
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Solar Financing Basics
Tax Credits
Federal: As of now, federal tax credits for residential solar energy systems are available at 30% through Dec 31, 2019. The credit is set to decrease to 26% for 2020, to 22% for 2021 and then expires Dec 31, 2021. The credit for commercial systems will continue permanently at 10%.
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.
Federal: As of now, federal tax credits for residential solar energy systems are available at 30% through Dec 31, 2019. The credit is set to decrease to 26% for 2020, to 22% for 2021 and then expires Dec 31, 2021. The credit for commercial systems will continue permanently at 10%.
- 30% for systems placed in service by 12/31/2019
- 26% for systems placed in service after 12/31/2019 and before 01/01/2021
- 22% for systems placed in service after 12/31/2020 and before 01/01/2022
- There is no maximum credit for systems placed in service after 2008.
- Systems must be placed in service on or after January 1, 2006, and on or before December 31, 2021.
- The home served by the system does not have to be the taxpayer’s principal residence.
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.
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%.
Missoula Federal Credit Union offers Unsecured Solar Loans and Solar Home Equity Loans. Call or visit their website for more information.
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%.
Missoula Federal Credit Union offers Unsecured Solar Loans and Solar Home Equity Loans. Call or visit their website for more information.