Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bozeman, MT (2024 Update)
- Bozeman Solar Installation Cost: $40,301
- 25-Year Savings: $23,455
- Payback Period: 19.0 Years
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Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bozeman
Find out what the average cost of installing solar panels is in Bozeman.
While the national average of solar panels is $2.66 per watt, solar panels in Bozeman typically cost around 3.The average solar panel system size in Bozeman is around 16.6 kilowatts, meaning a cost of about $40,301 for a solar installation, or $57,630 before the 0 federal solar tax credit is applied.
The true cost of your system can go higher or lower than the average in Bozeman depending on a variety of factors, such as the model of solar panels you choose and the solar installer you hire.Despite the high initial cost, the average Bozeman homeowner can save around $13,000 on their electricity bills over 20 years, which is one of the positives of solar.
To calculate your potential savings and connect with a local solar installer, click the button below.
Solar savings over time in Bozeman
| Year | Return on Investment |
|---|---|
| 1 years | $-39,029 |
| 3 years | $-36,484 |
| 5 years | $-33,938 |
| 7 years | $-31,393 |
| 9 years | $-28,848 |
| 11 years | $-26,303 |
| 13 years | $-23,758 |
| 15 years | $-21,213 |
| 17 years | $-18,668 |
| 19 years | $-16,123 |
| 21 years | $-13,577 |
| 23 years | $-11,032 |
| 25 years | $-8,487 |
Top Solar Installers in Bozeman
Trying to put up solar panels on your own can be a difficult project, which is why getting a solar installation company is a good option for many homeowners. Another great thing about using a reputable solar installer is that it'll provide warranties and free repairs, which help protect your investment.
Working with a professional solar installer can make going solar easier. Here are our recommendations:
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
See all of the solar companies in Bozeman
Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bozeman
There are several criteria that can affect your installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that installs your solar panels.
Solar Equipment
The size of the solar energy system you need for your household, which is measured in kilowatts, is the most important cost factor to consider. For every additional kilowatt you need, your total will most likely increase by nearly $3,470. There are many different solar panel brands and the one you choose also changes the cost. Usually, the brands that have better efficiency tend to also be more expensive. Plus, the type of equipment you want to install can affect your total cost. If you only need panels, your system will be far less expensive than if you also need solar batteries or an electric vehicle charger.
Solar Financing Terms
Many homeowners find the average cost of solar in Bozeman to be prohibitively costly, even if the investment pays off over time. Fortunately, almost every solar company in the area provides financing options. Solar loans remarkably decrease upfront costs in most cases, but they also lead to higher prices over time because of interest.When estimating your overall cost, you should also calculate the interest you’ll pay if you opt for a solar loan. Also, paying more upfront can reduce the total interest paid over time.
Solar Panel Installation Company
Lastly, the company you choose to install your solar panels can impact the cost. Bozeman’s solar companies all have different labor costs and add varying upcharges to equipment. Additionally, some companies in Bozeman know more about local solar incentives and can help you take advantage of additional rebates or tax exemptions. Though, they may charge more for walking you through the whole process. Even if they cost more upfront, they could end up saving you more money in the long run.
Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size
| System size | Cost per system watt | Solar system cost | 25-Year savings | Payback period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 kW | $3.61 | $15,157 | $3,993 | 19.8 years |
| 8 kW | $3.54 | $19,821 | $5,712 | 19.4 years |
| 10 kW | $3.47 | $24,290 | $7,626 | 19.0 years |
| 12 kW | $3.40 | $28,565 | $9,735 | 18.6 years |
| 14 kW | $3.33 | $32,646 | $12,037 | 18.3 years |
| 16 kW | $3.26 | $36,532 | $14,534 | 17.9 years |
| 18 kW | $3.19 | $40,224 | $17,225 | 17.5 years |
| 20 kW | $3.12 | $43,722 | $20,111 | 17.1 years |
How to Save on Solar Panels
There are a lot of solar installers to choose from, all of which offer different warranties, solar panel brands and price points. To help you select the right company for you, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Installation Process: Make sure you’re aligned with the installer regarding how the installation process will go and what you need to do before your solar system is installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
- Reputation: Solar panel companies that have great reviews from their customers and that have been operating for many years most likely offer good-quality solar panel installation and expertise.
- Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and models of panels. If you know you want a specific brand, make sure the solar panel installer you’re considering has it.
- Contract: When reading over your solar installer’s contract, ask questions about any terms you’re not sure of and be sure you understand what happens in scenarios like a system part breaking or if the company goes out of business.
Best National Provider
SunPower
- Most efficient panels on the market
- National coverage
- Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
- Great warranty coverage
- Expensive
- Customer service varies by local dealer
Best Technology
Tesla Energy
- Price-match guarantee
- Sleek, efficient, and durable solar panels
- Best solar battery on the market
- Some reported issues with customer service
- Customer service varies by local dealer
EcoWatch's Bozeman, MT Solar Cost FAQs
How much does it cost to install solar panels in Bozeman?
The average cost of solar panels in Bozeman is about $17,350 for a 5-kW system and $34,700 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the real cost will depend on stuff like the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.
Can you get solar panels for free in Bozeman?
You can’t get solar panels for free in Bozeman. However, you may still be able to install them on a lower budget. You can lease solar panels for a low upfront cost or, if you’d prefer to own your solar panels, you can finance them with a solar loan.
Can you sell solar power back to the grid in Bozeman?
Each state has some form of net metering programs except Tennessee, South Dakota and Alabama currently. Some states let you sell power back to the grid, but others just offer you credit toward your future power bills.
How long do solar panels last in Bozeman?
On average, solar panels can last about 25 to 30 years. Some even last up to 50 years, but their efficiency goes down by about 0.8% each year. You can choose to replace them sooner if you want to maintain a higher amount of energy production.
Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.
Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.