Montana environmental group fears electricity rate increase with NorthWestern-Black Hills merger

350 Montana, an environmental group, is urging the Montana Public Service Commission (PSC) to scrutinize the proposed merger between NorthWestern Energy and Black Hills Energy, expressing fears that it could lead to higher electricity rates for state residents and prioritize Artificial Intelligence data centers over everyday Montanans. Jim Parker, a leader with 350 Montana, emphasized the need to protect ratepayers and called for greater transparency from the PSC before any decisions are made. Attorney Monica Tranel, representing 350 Montana, filed a supplemental motion with the PSC, alleging that NorthWestern's proposal is a "shell game" designed to serve AI data centers and that the commission is not adequately addressing concerns related to labor and data centers. PSC Commissioner Brad Molnar, R-Laurel, supported these concerns, stating he requested more time to review the merger documents but was denied by a majority of the commissioners. Commissioner Randy Pinoci, R-Great Falls, also agreed that 350 Montana's filing highlights the need for increased diligence and oversight. While Commissioners Jennifer Fielder, R-Thompson Falls, and Annie Bukacek, R-Kalispell, have not yet responded to inquiries, Commissioner Jeff Welborn, R-Dillon, indicated he would need to hear testimony before offering an opinion. NorthWestern Energy and Black Hills Corporation issued a joint statement asserting that their merger application provides clear evidence that the combination will result in a stronger, more resilient company capable of meeting customers' evolving energy needs safely, reliably, and cost-effectively. The core of the dispute, as framed by Commissioner Molnar, is whether Montana's energy resources will primarily serve its residents or data centers.