Montana PSC commissioner tours state to talk about electricity rates and data centers

Montana Public Service Commission (PSC) Commissioner Brad Molnar, R-Laurel, has initiated a tour across the state to address concerns regarding electricity rates and the impact of data centers, beginning with the Billings City Council. A proposed data center in Broadview has raised significant questions among residents, including Giovanni and Perla Scerra, who expressed worries about environmental impact, water consumption, sound pollution, and the potential increase in electricity costs for the community. Billings City Councilmember Amy Aguirre echoed these concerns, highlighting the substantial water usage and sound pollution associated with data centers. Commissioner Molnar, along with PSC Commissioner Randy Pinocci, specifically pointed to the Northwestern Black Hills merger and the acquisition of Puget Sound Energy's share of Colstrip plants 3 and 4. Molnar argues that the low-cost energy from these plants should serve Montana ratepayers rather than be diverted to data centers, believing the merger could ultimately cost taxpayers. They plan to seek support from other council and commission meetings to ask the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) to reexamine the proposed merger. Councilman Tony O’Donnell, a former PSC commissioner, and Mayor Mike Nelson have voiced support for Molnar's stance. Molnar is scheduled to present to Yellowstone County Commissioners, while Commissioner Mark Morse, R-Yellowstone County, awaits Molnar's comments before providing his own. Northwestern Energy has previously stated that expanded Colstrip plant ownership safeguards Montana's energy future and supports economic growth, despite ongoing debate.