Solar Energy

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Missoula County recognizes the value of solar energy and is committed to increasing residential and commercial access to solar resources. In recognition of the county’s efforts to make it easier, and more affordable to install solar energy systems, Missoula County has been awarded SolSmart Silver Designation. SolSmart is a U.S. Department of Energy program that recognizes communities that are “open for solar business.”

In addition to encouraging county residents and businesses to consider solar energy, Missoula County is actively pursuing solar installations on county-owned buildings. In 2021, the county installed the largest rooftop solar array in the State of Montana at the Missoula County Detention Facility. Click here for Frequently Asked Questions about this project.

Missoula County is also a proud participant in the three community solar projects that have been developed by the Missoula Electric Cooperative in Lolo, Frenchtown, and Bonner.

Solar Resources for Missoula County Residents and Businesses

Missoula County has partnered with Climate Smart Missoula, the Montana Renewable Energy Association, and other local organizations on the Solar-Ease Program to make solar easy for local residents and businesses. Check out the Solar-Ease webpage for tons of informational resources and helpful videos.

Find a local solar contractor through the Montana Renewable Energy Association's Installer Director

Missoula County permitting requirements for solar energy systems:
- Roof-mounted Solar Energy Permitting Checklist (residential and commercial)
- Pole- or Ground-mounted Solar Energy Permitting Checklist (residential and commercial)
Financing and Incentives

The solar array at the Missoula County Detention Facility, the largest rooftop array in the state, consists of 1,152 solar panels and has a total capacity of 432 kilowatts.

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