Electricity Rates in Montana
Average residential electricity cost, utility comparison, and solar savings potential for Montana homeowners.
Montana Electricity Cost Overview
The average residential electricity rate in Montana is $0.12 per kWh, which is 25% below the national average of $0.16/kWh.Montana homeowners pay an average of $114 per month for electricity, based on typical usage of 948 kWh per month.
Electricity rates in this state have been trending upward over the past decade, following national patterns of rising energy costs. As rates continue to increase, solar panels become an increasingly attractive way for homeowners to lock in their energy costs and achieve long-term savings.
Major Electric Utilities in Montana
| Utility Company | Avg Rate ($/kWh) | Customers | Est. Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|---|
| NorthWestern Energy | $0.12 | 380K | $114 |
| Flathead Electric Cooperative | $0.10 | 60K | $95 |
| Missoula Electric Cooperative | $0.11 | 50K | $104 |
Compare & Shop Electricity Rates in Montana
Montana has a deregulated electricity market. This means residents can choose their electricity supplier and shop for the cheapest rates available. Your local utility still delivers power to your home, but you pick who generates it — and at what price.
How to Find the Lowest Rates in Montana
- Compare suppliers: Visit Montana's Public Utilities Commission website for approved electricity suppliers and current rate offers.
- Fixed vs. variable rates: Fixed-rate plans protect you from price spikes. Variable rates may start lower but fluctuate with the market.
- Check contract terms: Watch for early termination fees, promotional rates that increase, and monthly service charges.
- Consider solar: Rather than switching suppliers year after year, solar panels generate electricity at a fixed cost for 25+ years — often the cheapest long-term option.
The current average rate in Montana is $0.12/kWh. By comparing suppliers or going solar, many Montana homeowners cut their monthly bill from $114 to under $34 per month.
How Solar Compares to Montana Electricity Rates
Without Solar
- Monthly bill: $114
- Annual cost: $1,368
- 25-year cost: $34,200
- Rate trend: Rising 2-5% annually
With Solar
- Monthly savings: $87
- Annual savings: $1,044
- 25-year savings: $25,000
- Rate: Locked in for 25+ years
Electricity Rates FAQ - Montana
The average residential electricity rate in Montana is $0.12 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is 25% below the national average of $0.16/kWh. The average monthly electric bill is approximately $114.
With solar panels, Montana homeowners can reduce their electricity costs by approximately 76%, saving around $87 per month or $25,000 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit further reduces the upfront cost.
The largest electric utilities in Montana include NorthWestern Energy, Flathead Electric Cooperative, Missoula Electric Cooperative. Rates vary between utilities, so your exact cost depends on your provider and usage.
Yes, electricity rates in Montana have been increasing over time, following national trends of 2-5% annual increases. This upward trend makes solar panels an increasingly attractive investment since they lock in your energy costs for 25+ years.
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