Many renewable projects include net metering applications on NorthWestern Energy’s distribution system. If you install a renewable electric generation project at your home or business, you can meet some or all of your own energy needs. You can further reduce your own energy costs and add energy to the utility’s energy system through net metering.
Net metering is a special installation that allows any surplus energy generated by your system to go back on the utility grid and gives you "credit" for the electricity put back on the system at retail rates. Your meter measures the electricity you use from the utility system less the electricity your system puts back.
To participate in a net metering agreement, you must be a Montana NorthWestern Energy electric customer (see note below).
The Net Meter Request Form is available for download from our site.
Note: Because our E+ Programs are funded through the Universal System Benefits (USB) charge, they are available to Montana customers only. USB charges are collected from all Montana electric and natural gas customers as required by Montana law. Net Metering is an E+ Program.