350 Montana joined a national week of action with other 350 groups throughout the nation on August 14 calling out the fossil fuel gluttons that run our private monopoly utilities. It’s time for an energy system in Montana that:
● Provides reliable and affordable energy for all
● Transitions to 100 percent clean renewable energy
● Offers democratic ownership and decision-making for energy generation and distribution
With a backbone of 50 percent hydro, off-the-charts solar and wind resources, proven storage technologies, and a relatively small population, Montana could be the first state in the country to build a 100 percent carbon-free energy system. Instead, we witness NorthWestern Energy squandering $300 million on methane “peakers” and acquiring two 40-year-old coal-burners that will cost billions in maintenance and coal-ash cleanup. These 19th century behemoths produce over 11 million tons a year of carbon dioxide pollution. It’s no surprise that the company raised rates 28 percent in 2023, with big increases coming again this fall and next spring. As always, a dull and disinterested Public Service Commission stands ready to rubber-stamp whatever costly fossil fuel development NorthWestern brings forward. It’s time for citizens to take charge.
