Lawmakers don’t want ratepayers saddled with data center costs

By: Keila Szpaller

Outlets: Daily Montanan

Published: September 9, 2026

Words: 959

Last Updated: 1 week, 1 day ago

Body Text Preview

A draft bill to protect power customers from paying for data center costs advanced Wednesday with a unanimous vote — but with criticism from NorthWestern Energy, the state’s largest public utility.

Sen. Daniel Zolnikov, chairman of the Energy and Technology Interim Committee, said the draft still needs work and input from more people.

The bill outlines the Montana Public Service Commission’s responsibilities for regulating a public utility serving “large loads.”

On a voice vote, all …

Create a free account to access this story and more

Join Plucky Wire to access full stories, collaborate with newsrooms, and discover content from networks around the world.

About

FAQ

Email Us