energy

Tyler Cross writes, "As temperatures rise and demand spikes, Montana families are being forced to overpay for power."

Montana’s largest utility defended their request to raise electric and gas rates Monday, as the state’s utility regulators consider whether to sign off on the proposal.

Ralph Waters writes, "Our Montana delegation has the responsibility to advocate for the voters who overwhelmingly support solar energy and businesses like mine."

The POWER Act creates a separate rate class for data centers so their grid expansion and infrastructure needs are paid for by tech companies that own them.

More than 600 electric vehicles are registered in Missoula County, comprising around 5.5% of every 1,000 people. But accommodating those drivers while preparing for growth within the EV industry remains a work in progress.

Fred Thomas writes, "Let me be clear: I support an “all of the above” energy strategy. That includes solar, wind, hydro, natural gas, and yes, coal—so long as it remains affordable and reliable."

Tim Miller writes, "The bill makes sweeping changes to clean energy tax credits—changes that will increase household energy costs and slow vital clean-energy investments in our state."

After dropping to historic levels last year due to ongoing drought and high temperatures, hydropower generated in the Northwest is expected to rise slightly this year from much needed precipitation.

Michael Hoyt writes, "Northwestern Energy is not ready or preparing for the inevitable shift to renewable power production. Instead, the company is in denial and continuing to invest in an old technology that contributes to global warming."

Amy Cilimburg and Abby Huseth write, "Climate advocates and policy nerds had been bracing for more rollbacks and, honestly, we don’t shock easily. But this budget bill is even worse than anticipated. Squashing rooftop solar in its tracks really is quite shocking!"