Montana utility soliciting public input

NorthWestern Energy is soliciting public comment on the initiative following the release of its 2019 Montana Electricity Supply Resource Procurement Plan draft.

The plan would be filed with the Montana Public Service Commission after the 60-day public comment period ends.

“Reductions in regional and in-state thermal generation are limiting the ability of Montana to import and export energy,” John Bushnell, manager energy supply and regulatory for NorthWestern Energy, said. “To just assume the market will always be able to provide customers with sufficient electricity at affordable prices is a reckless approach that could have severe reliability and cost consequences. As an example of this risk, the market blew up on March 1, 2019, to nearly $1,000 per MWh.”

The utility is requesting those wishing to share input visit www.northwesternenergy.com to view the draft plan, submit comments, learn more about effective ways to make homes more energy efficient and inquire about various bill payment and assistance options.

“Over the next several years we will also be laying the foundation to join the western United States energy imbalance market, which will allow us to operate our supply resources more efficiently and may give renewable energy developers in Montana greater access to western markets,” Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy president and CEO, said.