Why Starting the Process of Going Solar in Winter is the Smartest Choice for Montana Homeowners and Businesses

14 years into the solar business in Montana, we know that solar energy isn’t the first thing that comes to mind during the winter — but in Montana, it’s actually one of the smartest times to start. Whether you’re a homeowner, a nonprofit, or a business in Bozeman, Missoula, or the surrounding areas, starting your solar journey now sets you up for long-term success, efficiency, and savings.

At OnSite Energy, we’ve been helping Montanans design, install, and maintain solar systems for 14 years — and we know that winter planning is not just strategic, it’s powerful. Here’s why.

1. Early Planning Means Peak Summer Production

Solar panels generate energy even in winter, but starting the process now allows us to design your system for maximum efficiency when the longest, sunniest days arrive. By planning ahead, you’ll be ready to generate peak solar production and savings by spring and summer.

According to Montana.gov, solar energy is an excellent resource in Montana even during short winter days, since many of them are sunny. In fact, over the course of a year, Montana’s solar resource is 26% greater than the national average — making it a smart investment any time of year.

2. Beat the Spring Rush

Montana’s solar installation schedule fills up quickly in spring and summer. By starting in winter, you secure your spot early, avoid delays, and ensure your system is installed with the high-quality standards and attention to detail that OnSite Energy has been known for the last 14 years.

3. Take Advantage of Limited-Time Winter Incentives

For a limited time, our Winter Watts campaign offers $750 off residential solar systems. Starting the process now gives you time to plan, design, and schedule installation while still qualifying for the incentive (offer ends March 31st).

4. Solutions That Fit Your Home, Business, or Nonprofit

Winter is the perfect time to think beyond just panels. Adding a battery to your solar system can store extra energy for evenings or cloudy days, so you have power when you need it most.

During Montana’s recent winter storms, 73,000 residents lost power in December. Homes and businesses with batteries kept running smoothly, showing how storage adds both convenience and resilience.

Whether you’re a homeowner, business, or nonprofit, our team works with you to custom-design a system that fits your goals, property, and lifestyle. 

5. Partner with a Trusted, Values-Driven Company

At OnSite Energy, we’re proud to be Montana’s only solar company that is a Certified B Corp and a member of the Amicus Solar Cooperative. That means every system we install is backed by rigorous technical standards, long-term service, and a commitment to using business as a force for good.

Our founders, Orion Thornton and Conor Darby, built OnSite Energy on a simple principle: energy should be crafted with care for the land and accountability to the people who depend on it. Orion grew up off-grid in Northwest Montana, learning firsthand how energy, land, and daily life are deeply connected. Conor’s path in conservation and solar technology reinforced the belief that renewable energy could serve both people and the planet. Together, they founded OnSite to raise the standard for solar in Montana — focusing on craftsmanship, local expertise, and ethical, long-term work rather than chasing volume or gimmicks.

This foundation influences everything we do. From residential rooftops to nonprofit facilities and commercial projects, your solar system isn’t just clean energy — it’s a commitment to quality, community, and the landscapes we all share. Our Solar for Conservation program also channels support to Montana nonprofits, ensuring that every project contributes to protecting wildlife, rivers, forests, and working lands.

With OnSite Energy, you’re not just installing panels — you’re joining a local, values-driven solar company dedicated to doing solar the right way, for people and for Montana.

Ready to Start Your Solar Journey This Winter?

Starting the conversation now ensures your system is designed thoughtfully, installed with care, and ready for maximum production when the sun is at its strongest. Residents, businesses, and nonprofits in Bozeman, Missoula, and surrounding areas can take advantage of our Winter Watts $750 discount before March 31st.

Contact us today at info@onsiteenergyinc.com to schedule a consultation or complete our digital intake form here to begin planning your solar system for a brighter, cleaner Montana.

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