Electricity Rates in Montana (2026)
National average: 16.72¢/kWh · Source: EIA, January 2026
Montana Benefits from Hydroelectric and Wind Power
Montana generates electricity from a mix of hydroelectric (about 40%), coal (about 30%), and growing wind capacity. At 12.45 cents/kWh, rates are well below the national average. NorthWestern Energy is the primary investor-owned utility. The combination of cheap hydro and coal (from local mines) has historically kept rates low. Wind development on the eastern plains is adding zero-fuel-cost generation.
Calculate Any Appliance Cost in Montana
Most Expensive Appliances to Run in Montana
Monthly costs at 12.45¢/kWh using typical wattage and hours:
| Appliance | Watts | Hrs/Day | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tankless Water Heater | 27000W | 1h | $100.85 |
| Electric Furnace | 10000W | 8h | $298.8 |
| Electric Car Charger (Level 2) | 7200W | 4h | $107.57 |
| Hot Tub | 6000W | 4h | $89.64 |
| Clothes Dryer | 5000W | 1h | $18.68 |
| Electric Water Heater | 4500W | 3h | $50.42 |
| Garage Workshop Heater | 4000W | 4h | $59.76 |
| Central Air Conditioner | 3500W | 8h | $104.58 |
| Electric Oven | 2500W | 1h | $9.34 |
| Dishwasher | 1800W | 1h | $6.72 |
| Hair Dryer | 1800W | 0.15h | $1.01 |
| Electric Pressure Washer | 1800W | 0.5h | $3.36 |
| Space Heater | 1500W | 8h | $44.82 |
| Electric Baseboard Heater | 1500W | 8h | $44.82 |
| Infrared Heater | 1500W | 6h | $33.62 |
Tips for Reducing Your Electricity Bill in Montana
- Montana's long, cold winters make heating the dominant energy expense. If you heat with electricity, upgrading insulation and sealing air leaks are the highest-priority investments.
- NorthWestern Energy offers energy efficiency rebates. Check their website for current programs on HVAC, insulation, and water heating.
- Montana has net metering for solar, but the low rate means longer payback periods (12-16 years). Solar works best as a long-term investment in Montana.
- Wood heating is popular in rural Montana and can significantly reduce electricity costs for heating.
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana Electricity
Montana benefits from hydroelectric dams on the Missouri, Clark Fork, and Flathead rivers that provide cheap, reliable generation. Local coal from eastern Montana mines adds low-cost thermal generation. The combination keeps rates well below the national average.
The average Montana household pays about $100-$125 per month. Low rates keep bills down, though consumption can be high in winter for homes with electric heating. Many Montana homes use natural gas or wood for primary heating, which keeps electricity bills lower.
Compare Neighboring Rates
See how Montana compares to other states in the Mountain region:
Arizona
13.81¢/kWh
Colorado
15.24¢/kWh
Idaho
10.87¢/kWh
Nevada
15.03¢/kWh
New Mexico
14.87¢/kWh
Utah
10.87¢/kWh
Wyoming
11.23¢/kWh
Electricity rate data sourced from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), average residential retail price, last updated January 2026. Your actual rate depends on your utility, plan, and usage tier. See our full disclaimer.