Utilities setup and providers in Montana: Local utility companies per region. Cost of electricity and gas. Renewable energy options. Internet service availability. Cable TV provider choices. Average water bill. Sewer service providers. Propane delivery options. Trash collection services. Setup fees and deposits.
Local utility companies per region.
In Montana, local utility companies vary by region, with providers such as NorthWestern Energy, Montana-Dakota Utilities, and Black Hills Power serving different areas for electricity and natural gas. Additionally, various companies like Energy West Montana, Cut Bank Gas, and several others provide natural gas and propane services, while numerous entities cater to water, sewer, and telecommunications needs across the state. For a comprehensive list of these regulated entities, you can refer to the Montana Public Service Commission website.
Cost of electricity and gas.
The cheapest electricity provider in Montana is the City of Troy Utilities, offering a residential rate of 8.30 cents per kilowatt-hour. For natural gas, Montana-Dakota Utilities stands out as a major provider, striving to deliver service at the lowest cost possible. For more detailed information, visit this comprehensive resource on Find Energy, which provides insights into energy providers and rates in the state.
Renewable energy options.
Montana offers a range of renewable energy options, including wind, solar, and geothermal. The state is ranked among the top five for Wind Power potential, with several large wind farms in operation, and its solar resource is 26 percent greater than the national average, supporting a robust residential and commercial solar installation industry. To explore more about these renewable energy programs, you can visit the Montana Department of Environmental Quality's website.
Internet service availability.
In Montana, internet service availability is diverse, with providers such as Spectrum delivering gig-level broadband in population centers, whereas CenturyLink and TDS Telecom ensure wider coverage through both DSL and fiber options. Despite these offerings, Montana ranks near the bottom in national internet speed rankings, with limited fiber availability impacting connectivity. However, local ISPs and investments are actively working to enhance broadband access across the state. For an in-depth look at the best internet providers in the region, explore the insights on CNET, which includes a thorough analysis of various services and their reach.
Cable TV provider choices.
In Montana, the top cable TV providers include DIRECTV and Dish Network, which are available to 100% of households, followed by Spectrum, which serves about 57% of households, and CenturyLink, available to around 71% of households. Other providers such as Blackfoot Telecommunications and Frontier have more limited availability. For more detailed coverage information, visiting the In My Area website can be beneficial.
Average water bill.
The average water bill in Missoula, Montana, varies based on meter size and usage. For example, a single-family residential user with a 3/4-inch meter pays a base rate of $26.27 plus a volume rate of $0.24 per gallon based on their water winter average. Larger meters and commercial users have different base and volume rates. For more detailed information on the water rates and various classifications, visit the Utility Rates page on the City of Missoula's website.
Sewer service providers.
Ready Freddy Inc. has been a cornerstone in Kalispell, MT, and the Flathead Valley since 1965, offering exceptional septic tank maintenance, repair, and installation services. Known for their reliable and affordable solutions, they have built a reputation for excellence over the decades. Meanwhile, Cotter's Sewer Inc. caters to the Billings, MT area, ensuring that residential and commercial clients have access to top-notch sewer services including drain cleaning, septic pumping, and portable toilet rentals. They also stand out by providing 24/7 emergency services to meet all urgent needs. Together, these companies exemplify commitment to high-quality and dependable service delivery across Montana.
Propane delivery options.
Silvertip Propane offers propane delivery and services across various locations in Montana, catering to needs such as home heating, barbecue tanks, and large bulk transport loads. Meanwhile, JFF Propane is a locally owned and operated provider serving Polson, Ronan, and other areas in Mission Valley and Sanders County, with offerings that include propane delivery, installation, and fuel oil services. In addition, Fall River Propane provides comprehensive solutions like propane delivery, tank rentals, and system services across Idaho, Montana, and Wyoming, boasting features such as wireless tank monitoring systems and industry-certified technicians. Similarly, Montana Propane Services offers a wide range of services including delivery, tank and appliance installation, and maintenance for both home and commercial applications, covering essentials like gas fireplaces, heaters, and barbecues.
Trash collection services.
McGree Trucking offers a comprehensive range of services including residential and business trash collection, alongside curbside recycling solutions. This well-established company has been dedicated to serving the Butte-Silver Bow area in Montana since 1949. For more information about their services, visit the McGree Trucking website.
Setup fees and deposits.
For utilities setup in Montana, particularly with Missoula Electric Cooperative, setup fees include a one-time processing fee of $5.00. Deposits range from a minimum of $150 for residential accounts to twice the highest bill at the service location, or for commercial accounts, equal to the total of the two highest bills in the last twelve months. For more detailed information, you can visit the Missoula Electric Cooperative website.