AWEA hails Montana Gov. Bullock’s plan to power 6.4 million Montana homes with wind energy

The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) on Tuesday saluted Montana Gov. Steve Bullock’s new Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) for the state that will rely more heavily on wind power and seek to power to 6.4 million homes with wind by 2030.

“Governor Bullock’s energy blueprint provides the framework for Montana to develop its world class wind resource and capture a significant portion of the region’s rapidly expanding markets for wind power,” AWEA Senior Director for Western State Policy Tom Darin said. “The governor’s plan has the right focus on specific state actions and transmission upgrades to expand Montana’s historically strong export economy and significantly increase wind energy as part of Montana’s diverse energy portfolio. This combination will enable Montana to realize substantial economic development and consumer savings benefits from new wind projects.” 

Montana’s current wind energy capacity totals 665 megawatts, enough to power approximately 180,000 average homes. The U.S. Department of Energy estimated that the state could support a substantial increase in wind energy infrastructure, and Bullock’s new plan reflects that.

Wind energy costs have fallen by approximately 67 percent since 2010, making wind energy more affordable. The increase in renewable energy is expected to make Montana more attractive to investors and corporations, boosting both environmental and economic benefits in the state.