The average residential electricity rate in Montana (MT) is $0.1228 per kWh as of April 2026, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is far below the national average of $0.1805/kWh, ranking Montana #8 out of 51 (all 50 states plus Washington DC), where #1 is the cheapest and #51 is the most expensive. The average Montana household consumes 961 kWh per month, resulting in a monthly electric bill of approximately $118 and annual electricity costs of about $1,416.
Montana tried electricity deregulation in 1997-2007 but re-regulated after prices spiked.
This comprehensive guide covers Montana electricity rates, historical trends, utility providers, bill calculation, solar savings potential, and actionable tips to reduce your electric bill. All rate data is sourced from the US EIA and updated monthly. Use our electricity cost calculator for personalized estimates.
Montana residential electricity rates have increased 12% over the past six years. The table below shows the trajectory compared against the national average.
| Year | Montana ($/kWh) | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $0.1092 | $0.1322 | -17% |
| 2022 | $0.1150 | $0.1492 | -23% |
| 2024 | $0.1190 | $0.1680 | -29% |
| Apr 2026 | $0.1228 | $0.1805 | -32% |
Montana has a regulated electricity market. The primary providers are: NorthWestern Energy, Montana-Dakota Utilities, Flathead Electric Cooperative.
Montana generates electricity from: Hydroelectric 35%, Coal 28%, Wind 20%, Natural gas 12%, Other 5%.
Your monthly electric bill = kWh Used × Rate per kWh. The average Montana household uses 961 kWh/month.
Montana has a mix of cheap hydroelectric and coal generation. The state has excellent wind resources.
Universal strategies: adjust thermostat 2-3 degrees (saves 5-10% on HVAC), switch to LEDs (see our LED savings calculator), unplug phantom loads (saves $100-200/year), and run major appliances during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing. For larger investments, consider a heat pump, better insulation, or a smart thermostat.
Montana receives 4.5 peak sun hours/day. A 6 kW system produces ~8,081 kWh/year, saving ~$992/year. With the 30% federal ITC, payback is typically 8-12 years. Use our solar panel calculator and solar ROI calculator for personalized estimates.
| State | Rate ($/kWh) | Avg Bill | Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Montana (MT) | $0.1228 | $118 | Regulated |
| Idaho (ID) | $0.1050 | $116 | Regulated |
| North Dakota (ND) | $0.1092 | $132 | Regulated |
| South Dakota (SD) | $0.1288 | $142 | Regulated |
| Wyoming (WY) | $0.1128 | $117 | Regulated |
Data source: US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Electric Power Monthly, April 2026. Rates shown are average residential rates and may differ from your specific utility tariff. Solar estimates assume a 6 kW system with 82% efficiency factor. Always verify current rates with your utility provider.