How did you become interested in solar energy, and what motivated you to establish the solar division of your company?
Solar has always interested me. I have always been an independent person, and solar gives people a chance to be energy independent. I also have a wide history of different construction trades, which helps give insight into what will work best for the client's needs within their properties parameters.
Are there any incentives or regulations in Montana that make solar energy more accessible than before?
There is the 30% federal tax credit that property owners who go with solar do qualify for. Montana also offers a program that is called net metering. It is essentially a way to credit unused power that is generated, and pushed back to the grid. Montana does have the Montana Renewables Energy Association, which has been a huge supporter in helping keep solar affordable in our great state of Montana. OnPoint Electric also offers discounts for public workers, veterans, first responders, nurses, and teachers. If you serve our community let us serve you.
What makes energy independence so attractive?
Strictly that, energy independence! If you own your property, either land or a building with a roof, the sun most likely hits it every day. Why not harness that energy, wipe clean your power bill, and save money in the long term? Also, with the vast improvements of batteries, clients can have confidence in keeping their house warm, fridge and freezer cold, and lights on during outages. It is a win-win.
How do you navigate the balance between meeting your client's energy needs and optimizing the solar system's efficiency for Montana's unique weather conditions?
Montana is an incredible state for solar energy. Especially in Bozeman with an average of 300 sunny days a year, we have great potential for maximizing solar energy. Even with our heaviest winter snows, we still can get year round production and a power bill offset. We also take into consideration shading from trees, other houses, and we can usually find a way to make it worth-it for our clients, and if I can't, I will tell them that. Honesty is very important for us with relationships to our clients.
What trends or technological advancements in the solar energy industry are you most excited about?
The industry is becoming more feasible for everyone to afford it. That, along with way more efficient solar panels, inverters, and the flexibility for a lot of systems to add batteries for outages, or time of use. It is an incredibly exciting time to be a part of this industry.
What advice would you give to homeowners or businesses considering transitioning to solar energy?
To go with your gut. Energy independence is a fantastic thing, but the client has got to want to be energy independent. Some like the “commonality” of paying a power bill, and not thinking about it. For those who are considering it, the biggest advice I can give is find an installation company that will treat you right and fair. With us, we take immense pride, and I want to be proud when I drive by a property, and I can say I did that system and it looks immaculate, and the client is more than happy.
Craig Gariepy is the owner of On Point Electric. To learn more about their services or to schedule a free consultation, visit OnPointElectricMT.com
"Montana is an incredible state for solar energy. Especially in Bozeman with an average of 300 sunny days a year, we have great potential for maximizing solar energy."