Is Montana’s NorthWestern Energy Putting Profit Over People?

BUTTE, MT - Love them or hate them, for years NorthWestern Energy has been relied on by Montanans to keep the lights on at home, in their businesses, and in our cities.

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But, as recently reported by The Daily Montanan, the NorthWestern Energy committee in charge of recommending future resource planning to the public utility—called the Electrical Technical Advisory Committee—will soon be investigated by the Montana Public Service Commission.

What does all of this mean? Is the commission facing criminal charges? What does it mean for NorthWestern Energy? What does this mean for the average Montanan?

Let's take a look.

Breaking Down the Situation

The Montana Public Service Commission (PSC) has launched an investigation into NorthWestern Energy’s Electric Technical Advisory Committee (ETAC). Concerns about closed-door meetings and transparency issues have surfaced, particularly as the utility plans for Montana’s energy future.

Commissioner Randy Pinocci, in support of the investigation, highlighted the importance of transparency. Conservation groups argue that NorthWestern relies on expensive, polluting energy sources, leaving affordable and cleaner alternatives underrepresented. Critics also allege that NorthWestern excludes key public interests, such as low-income advocates and small energy developers.

In response to these concerns, the PSC aims to gather and share information about ETAC proceedings. David Sanders, the PSC’s executive director, has stated that he would like to open up the investigation to the public. NorthWestern reinstated a committee website, but many remain skeptical due to the company's defensive response to transparency questions.

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What Does the Committee Under Investigation Do?

The ETAC plays a crucial role in NorthWestern Energy’s long-term resource planning. It advises the company on future energy needs, helping guide decisions about energy sources, infrastructure investments, and sustainability strategies. Critics argue that the committee’s recommendations favor costlier, less environmentally friendly energy sources, while renewable energy advocates push for cleaner, more affordable alternatives. There are also concerns that the ETAC lacks representation from diverse stakeholders, such as low-income advocates and small-scale energy developers.

How Long Will the Investigation Take?

The exact duration of the PSC’s investigation is unclear at this stage. These types of inquiries typically involve collecting and reviewing significant amounts of information, which could take several months. The commission will need to gather documents, examine evidence, and conduct meetings before reaching a conclusion. As of now, there is no specific end date for the investigation, but the commission aims to move swiftly in order to resolve transparency concerns.

Could the Committee Face Criminal Charges?

At this point, the investigation is not focused on criminal charges. Instead, it is examining NorthWestern Energy’s transparency and adherence to regulatory standards. The inquiry may lead to recommendations for changes in the utility’s governance practices, but criminal proceedings are unlikely unless evidence of fraud or illegal activity emerges. The focus remains on accountability, transparency, and compliance with state regulations.

What Does the Investigation Mean for NorthWestern Energy?

The investigation could lead to significant changes in how the company operates. With growing concerns over transparency and decision-making, NorthWestern Energy is under scrutiny for its approach to resource planning and public engagement. The investigation may force the utility to open up more of its internal processes to public scrutiny and improve its relationship with Montanans.

How Will This Affect the Average Montanan?

For most Montanans, the investigation could bring changes in how NorthWestern Energy engages with the public and makes decisions that impact energy prices and sustainability. If the PSC finds that NorthWestern has been too secretive or has favored costly, non-renewable energy sources, it could push the utility to adopt cleaner, more affordable options.

In the short term, the investigation may not lead to immediate changes, but over time, it could result in more open, accountable decision-making that benefits consumers across the state.

Ultimately, Montanans can expect a closer look at the utility’s long-term plans and possibly a shift toward greater public involvement in energy decisions.