An environmental group in central Montana is working to help more residents there adopt solar energy to power their homes and businesses.
The Central Montana Resource Council is streamlining residents’ transition to rooftop solar by removing some of the biggest barriers — mainly, time and money.
The local branch of the Northern Plains Resource Council is doing the research for interested residents by pre-selecting a solar installer and holding remote webinars. The group is also offering free assessments this spring for residents who want to figure out what type of solar array is right for their home or business.
The Central Montana Resource Council began its campaign to “solarize” Petroleum, Wheatland, Fergus and Judith Basin counties earlier this month. Residents in those counties have until June 1 to sign up for a free assessment.
Other “solarize” campaigns have taken place in Billings, Glendive, Helena, Livingston and Red Lodge.
The Solar Energy Industry Association says in 2021 about .32% of Montana's energycame from solar, and the state ranked 43rd in terms of solar installed.
