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Lawyer Grills Montana Power Company CEO on Fossil Fuel Costs, Financial Risks
- On June 9, 2025, the Montana Public Service Commission held a hearing in Helena on NorthWestern Energy's proposal to raise electric and natural gas rates for Montana customers.
- The rate increase request follows NorthWestern's investment of about $1 billion in infrastructure, including the Yellowstone County Generating Station and hydroelectric upgrades, aiming to balance reliability, affordability, and sustainability.
- The hearing featured testimonies from CEO Brian Bird and regulatory counsel Sarah Norcott defending the prudence of investments, while attorney Shiloh Hernandez challenged fossil fuel reliance and financial risks tied to coal assets like Colstrip.
- NorthWestern proposed raising electric rates by $4.63 and natural gas rates by $4.74 , with public opposition manifesting in protests and calls for smaller increases amid concerns over drought impacts and climate commitments.
- The PSC will continue reviewing the case and must decide how much of the costs customers should bear, as environmental groups remain involved and the hearing may last up to two weeks.
19 Articles
19 Articles
NorthWestern Energy ‘not as in touch with Montanans’ as rate case unfolds
The Montana Public Service Commission is hearing NorthWestern Energy's rate case this week and next. (Photo by fhm | Getty Images)Even before the Public Service Commission approved a settlement that meant a 28% rate increase for NorthWestern Energy customers, Chris Blazer’s friend struggled. Blazer, of Helena, said her friend lives on just $2,000 a month. “Even five years ago, before the big rate increases, she was living in darkness and cold so…
Helena Independent Record
Amid accusations of bias toward fossil fuels, NorthWestern Energy asks to raise rates for Montana customers
"This is your chance to stand up for Montanans, to protect families, not fossil fuel investments," said the executive director of Families for a Livable Climate.
Eyes on Montana PSC as NorthWestern Energy argues for rate increase
Montanas largest utility defended their request to raise electric and gas rates Monday, as the states utility regulators consider whether to sign off on the proposal.The Montana Public Service Commission had a full chamber Monday morning, as they opened what could be more than a weeklong hearing on NorthWestern Energys latest rate case.(Watch the video for more of the reactions on the first day of the hearing.) Eyes on PSC as NorthWestern Energy…
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