Montana PSC weighs NorthWestern merger as critics push back

MONTANA — Montana utility regulators heard arguments over whether NorthWestern Energy should be allowed to merge with South Dakota-based Black Hills Electric.

The proposed deal would expand the utility across eight states. That possibility drew concern from people including Caitlin Piserchia of the Montana Sierra Club.

She said the commission should keep strong oversight of major utilities in Montana.

“We believe that Montana Public, the Montana Public Service Commission, should continue to have real power in assessing and holding Montana's largest monopoly utilities accountable for reliable, affordable power that's in the in the public interest of Montanans,” said Caitlin Piserchia.

Jason Brown, a lawyer for the Montana Consumer Council, argued the merger details would not weaken the commission’s authority.

“If you look at that, org chart attached to the stipulation, what's outlined there as, you know, subject to Montana jurisdiction is not changing. This commission's regulatory authority over those entities is not changing,” said Jason Brown.

A settlement tied to the merger would send $18 to each Montana household. Opponents said that amount did not go far enough.

The opposition was spearheaded by climate group 350 Montana and led in court by state Legislature candidate Monica Tranel.

“There are a lot of people who haven't been here. There are a lot of people who don't know this merger is happening. They're at work. They are the salaried employees making maybe 15 bucks an hour. So please take care with the evidence that has been brought here this week,” said Monica Tranel.

The next hearing is set for June 5. Commissioners are expected to hear more arguments about the proposal.