Guest Opinion: Concerns with energy resource plan

Even though the Flathead Valley has some of the cheapest energy in the region supplied by Flathead Electric Co-op, there are many good reasons residents should write the PSC to comment on Northwestern Energy’s 20-year plan, or Integrated Resource Plan (IRP). 

Northwestern Energy’s intent to invest in the most expensive and polluting power plants to increase profits on the back of rate payers and the environment hurts all Montanans. Looking back from 2009 to 2026 Northwestern Energy’s rates have increased 99%.  

This IRP is no different than past IRPs with Northwestern favoring coal, gas and now nuclear over renewables like wind and solar. Their models devalue renewable energy, battery storage and transmission making coal, gas and unproven nuclear look more desirable and affordable. They do not address climate change impacts and other external costs to Montanans such as radiation, as the Department of Energy slashes regulations on new nuclear plants allowing less stringent radiation containment.

The PSC needs to hear from you with your concerns about the IRP. To get informed you can go to https://url.us.m.mimecastprotect.com/s/cz2RCgJODRTPwlZkFNfOc450Es?domain=meic.org, or the MEIC YouTube site. The comment period ends July 28.

Steven Martinez, Kalispell