Cost & Savings Breakdown
Based on $150/month electric bill in Helena
System Size
8.1 kW
Annual Production
11,774 kWh
Gross System Cost
$25,000
Federal Tax Credit (30%)
-$7,500
State Incentive
-$500
Net Cost
$17,000
Monthly Savings
$122
CO₂ Offset/yr
10,832 lbs
25-Year Savings Projection
Utility & Net Metering
Local UtilityNorthWestern Energy
Net Metering PolicyFull Retail
Compensation RateFull retail rate
Capacity LimitNo overall limit
Electricity Rate$0.124/kWh
Peak Sun Hours5 hrs/day
Available Incentives
30%
Federal ITC — Deduct 30% of your system cost from federal taxes. Available through 2032.
$500
Montana State Incentive — Montana offers a $500 tax credit for residential solar.
Common Questions
How much does solar cost in Helena?
Solar in Helena, Montana costs approximately $25,000 for a 8.1 kW system. After the 30% federal tax credit, your net cost is about $17,000.
What is the solar payback period in Helena?
The estimated payback period for solar in Helena is 11.6 years, based on a $150/month electric bill and local sun hours of 5 hrs/day.
Does NorthWestern Energy offer net metering?
NorthWestern Energy offers Full Retail net metering. Full retail rate.