When is the Best Time to Install a Solar Electric System in Montana?
Spring is an ideal time. Nearly all modern solar panel systems are connected to the conventional electric utility grid. When this happens, your meter spins backwards and your utility company credits you for that power. This grid-tied method tends to be the most convenient for homeowners. This is ideal for us in Montana, because of our long solar days in the summer and shorter days in the winter time. In Montana the utility company will not write you a check for excess energy that you produce. So generally your system will be sized to accommodate your average annual usage. (determined by your utility bill). Each year the solar electric system generates power during peak season (summer), and you consume power during the darker, shorter days of winter. The utility company (each one slightly different dates) resets once a year and the process begins again. We generally recommend with NorthWestern Energy to reset on April 1st. This gives the entire summer to generate power and the entire winter to consume power before beginning the cycle again.
Other conditions that make the perfect time to install your solar electric system:
- 30% federal tax credit still available in 2018.
- State tax credit, $500.00 per tax payer makes this a great time to invest for the long term.
Call SBS Solar today for your free solar estimate. 406-541-8410.