'We've never seen anything like this': Groups warn of data centers at Missoula meeting
Environmental nonprofits held a public meeting in Missoula, Montana, to raise concerns about the substantial electricity consumption of proposed data centers in the state. They warned that these centers could significantly increase residential electricity rates and expressed worry about potential environmental and financial costs. The Montana Public Service Commission is currently reviewing a proposed "large load tariff" by NorthWestern Energy to regulate power supply to these facilities.
Environmental nonprofits convened a meeting in Missoula, Montana, on Tuesday to caution against the potential negative impacts of data centers on the state's electricity grid and environment. Anne Hedges, executive director of the Montana Environmental Information Center, highlighted that NorthWestern Energy has signed letters of intent with three data center companies proposing to consume between 850 and 1,400 megawatts by 2030, a load equivalent to twice NorthWestern's current residential supply. She expressed concern that this demand could lead to significant increases in residential electricity rates, which have already risen substantially.
Hedges specifically mentioned Quantica, planning a 1,000-megawatt facility in Yellowstone County, and Krambu, proposing a 100-megawatt facility near Bonner. She likened the data center rush to past boom-and-bust cycles in Montana, fearing that residents would bear the costs of infrastructure if these companies fail. Derek Goldman from the NW Energy Coalition echoed these sentiments, warning of financial and environmental costs accruing to Montanans while profits benefit out-of-state tech billionaires. Other speakers included Amy Cilimburg of Climate Smart Missoula and Barbara Chillcott of the Western Environmental Law Center.
Simultaneously, the Montana Public Service Commission is reviewing a proposed "large load tariff" submitted by NorthWestern Energy. This tariff aims to establish a framework for supplying electricity to large industrial customers like data centers, promising regulatory oversight and cost transparency. Opponents are urging consumers to contact elected officials to ensure data centers are fully responsible for all infrastructure investments made on their behalf.