Title: Northern Cheyenne Tribe Urges Consideration of Commercial Solar Project in Montana
Introduction:
The Northern Cheyenne tribe is currently engaged in discussions with the U.S. Department of Energy regarding a commercial solar project that they believe would be a suitable fit for NorthWestern Energy. President Serena K. Wetherelt has written a letter to the Montana Public Service Commission, urging them to require NorthWestern Energy to consider the Northern Cheyenne energy in their integrated resource plan. The tribe’s unique position allows them to recover 50% of their investment in a solar project through federal tax credits and receive a 50% rebate for every megawatt-hour of electricity produced.
Concerns over Lack of Engagement:
Despite engaging with Basin Electric, Tongue River Electric Cooperative, and the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, the Northern Cheyenne tribe has expressed disappointment in NorthWestern Energy’s lack of meaningful engagement. Jo Dee Black, a spokesperson for NorthWestern Energy, stated that they value their relationship with the tribe but emphasized that no specific project proposal has been submitted for consideration or negotiation. However, Black did mention that the tribe could submit a project during the next request for proposals concerning new generation.
Montana’s Resource Plan and Public Concerns:
The state of Montana requires monopoly utilities to submit a 20-year resource plan every three years. This plan outlines the most cost-effective means for reliable energy service, including both generation and energy conservation. The public and the commission have the opportunity to comment on the plan, but the commission’s role is to make recommendations rather than approve or reject the plan. NorthWestern Energy’s long-term plan heavily relies on coal and natural gas-fired power plants, which has faced criticism during public listening sessions.
Opposition to Colstrip Power Plant:
NorthWestern Energy plans to increase its capacity share of the Colstrip Power Plant, a move that has faced significant opposition from the public. Concerns have been raised about the reliance on coal power and the potential costs associated with building renewable resources. Additionally, a recent District Court ruling declared a new Montana law, which shielded industrial polluters from carbon dioxide regulation, as unconstitutional. The ruling stated that climate change must be considered when applying the Montana Environmental Policy Act.
The Northern Cheyenne Tribe’s Perspective:
The Northern Cheyenne tribe argues that they are disproportionately affected by the Colstrip Power Plant due to its proximity to their reservation. Tribal members face negative impacts from hazardous air pollutants and groundwater contamination caused by the plant. Despite efforts to be heard on Colstrip matters, the tribe has often been left out of transition funding agreements made by other power plant shareholders. In 2019, they requested transition funding from NorthWestern Energy but were directed elsewhere for funding.
Conclusion:
The Northern Cheyenne tribe is actively advocating for the consideration of their commercial solar project by NorthWestern Energy. They believe that this project would provide affordable energy, equitable distribution of costs and benefits, and a move towards clean energy sources. As discussions continue and the public expresses concerns about NorthWestern Energy’s reliance on coal power, the future of Montana’s energy landscape remains uncertain.
Original Story at billingsgazette.com – 2023-09-10 13:15:00