Photovoltaic (PV) systems produce electricity from sunlight. This electrical power can be used to operate all of the lights, appliances, and electronics that normally consume electricity from the power grid. Photovoltaic systems have been used in homes and business for years but are enjoying a resurgence in popularity due to falling prices for photovoltaic panels, technical advances in inverter technology, and increasing utility costs.
NorthWestern Energy encourages you to do the research to learn whether a PV system makes sense for your family or business. We have developed a Field Guide to Photovoltaic Systems, which is available for download in PDF format, to help you get started. Because the Guide contains a number of pictures, it may take a minute or two to download. You can view the status of the download in the task bar at the bottom of your browser.
If you decide to install a photovoltaic system at your home, you may want to review our net metering procedures.
Contractor Qualifications for Renewable Energy Projects
NorthWestern Energy has established qualification requirements for contractors interested in receiving Universal Systems Benefit (USB) renewable energy (RE) funds for RE projects within NorthWestern Energy's electric service territory.
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.