Background
Thirsty Lake Solar is located in Northwest Montana and has been run from off-grid facilities by owner/operator Jeff Wongstrom since it's beginning in 2003. Jeff's background includes a Materials Science and Engineering degree from the University of Michigan, training at Solar Energy International, NABCEP solar PV installer certification, experience in many phases of construction including underground cable installation, concrete pouring, roofing, framing and finish carpentry, and designing and building an off-grid energy efficient home from the ground up. Jeff has been living off-grid since 1997.
Jeff attends renewable energy fairs and training workshops. He also instructs online solar and wind classes for the University of Montana College of Technology Energy Technology Program.
Services
Renewable Energy services provided by Thirsty Lake Solar include site analysis, complete system design and installation, educating clients on system operation and proper maintenance, consultation, maintenance and troubleshooting, and equipment sales. We compete on the basis of our knowledge, quality of work, and after sale support. We do not compete with cheapestsolardotcom.
In our work we strive to provide a code compliant system that meets industry standards for safety and workmanship including properly sized wire and conduit, appropriate circuit breakers, and a proper grounding system. Systems that we design and install have a one year warranty that guarantees a properly functioning system and replacement of defective equipment covered under the manufacturer's warranty. Travel costs and shipping costs are not included in warranty work and will be charged to the client.
Getting Started
We prefer to start a design and installation project with a site visit. During the visit a site analysis is conducted from which a proposal is generated. The proposal includes the cost of major components and a good faith estimate of installation labor, materials, and travel. A site analysis fee is charged which is refundable towards a system purchase.
Tax Credit
Residential renewable energy systems qualify for a 30% of cost federal tax credit and a $500 Montana state tax credit. Commercial systems qualify for a 30% of cost federal tax credit and may be depreciated for a further 20-40% savings.
Other
Thirsty Lake Solar provides the Eureka public library with a subscription to Home Power Magazine and is a member of the Montana Renewable Energy Association.