The city of Missoula and Missoula County are advancing a pivotal green power program, edging toward their shared aim of converting the community’s energy to 100% clean electricity. Officials announced the development marks a substantial push toward sustainable power goals. NorthWestern Energy customers across Montana could soon opt into this green energy initiative, which awaits approval from the Montana Public Service Commission. The city and county are poised to endorse the agreement at a joint meeting on Monday.
The green tariff initiative promises to allow voluntary subscriptions to renewable energy, supporting Missoula’s 100% clean electricity objective set for 2030. Mayor Andrea Davis expressed enthusiasm for nearing this milestone, underscoring the importance of delivering sustainable energy solutions. The City Council has preliminarily endorsed an agreement mapping out the responsibilities of each party involved and the process for advancing the proposal to the Montana Public Service Commission.
Spearheaded in 2019, the plan aims to bring the community significantly closer to its clean energy target, currently at just under 60% completion. Alongside Bozeman, the Missoula County is determined to propel this clean power program forward. The Clean Energy Buyers Association notes that 30 states have similar utility green tariff programs, with some offering multiple options, reflecting a growing trend.
The program would cap at 50 megawatts, potentially powering around 20,000 homes, and NorthWestern Energy would oversee its operation. Subscribers, including local governments and businesses, would pay for the renewable resource over time. According to Shannon Anderson, the program is designed to be self-sustaining, ensuring no external subsidization.
The proposal’s filing deadline with the Public Service Commission is set for September 15. The review duration remains uncertain, but upon approval, there is a 180-day window for recruiting eligible customers. Council Member Eric Melson highlighted the voluntary nature of the program, emphasizing its role in expanding consumer choices. This initiative aligns with broader national trends towards adopting similar green energy programs.
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