Renewable energy adoption in most of the U.S. is running at a slow pace, but in Montana a big surge in solar energy is being pushed by Republicans and Democrats.

The newest legislation to push residential solar energy is "net metering", a new electric system used by business and home customers to sell off any excess energy to the state. Using this net metering system can lead to sustainable solar energy, alongside excess in the summer, which can be sold off for energy price reductions or a profit.

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It makes setting up solar panels on home or businesses a much less risky situation, after the initial payment homeowners will be able to have self-reliant energy, if the solar panels continue to make enough energy to power the household.

"At its core, it's about Montanans seeking self-sufficiency," said Sen. Mike Phillips. "I think Montanans pride themselves on recognizing the idea of self-sufficiency...It really is a question of freedom: 'Why shouldn't I be able to do this?'"

However, the new push will be hit with opposition from state electric companies, who claim one customers gain is another's loss, and a net metering system is unsustainable in any U.S. state.

"The only reason they are even remotely viable is that they are supported by a system of subsidies and cost-shifts that burden other (electric) ratepayers and taxpayers," says John Fitzpatrick, director of governmental affairs for NorthWestern Energy.

The current cap for net metered solar systems in Montana is 50-kilawatts, meaning large companies might not agree to the solar deals in the state, although state representatives show interest in upping this cap.

TagsMontana, solar power, Republicans, Democrats, renewable energy