Missoula and Bozeman Launch Montana’s First Green Power Program With Northwestern Energy

Missoula and Bozeman move toward launching Montana’s first Green Power Program.

The cities of Missoula and Bozeman, in partnership with NorthWestern Energy and Energy Strategies LLC, are finalizing a voluntary tariff to allow customers to purchase electricity generated from new renewable energy sources. This initiative aims to support local goals of achieving 100% clean electricity by 2030.

The Green Power Program, which began development in 2021, represents a collaborative effort among local governments and NorthWestern Energy to offer customers a choice in their energy sourcing through a special rate. Bozeman is scheduled to vote on the program today, followed by Missoula city and county next week. This would be the first program of its kind in Montana, providing a direct subscription model to Montana-built renewable resources.

Looking ahead, the upcoming votes will determine whether the program moves forward, marking a significant step in local clean energy adoption.

For Montana businesses and consumers, the program could signal a shift toward greater renewable energy options within regulated utility frameworks. Given Montana’s vast natural resources and dispersed population centers, voluntary clean power tariffs might attract interest among communities seeking to balance sustainability with reliable, affordable service. The success of this regional effort may influence similar initiatives in other parts of the state.

Missoula, Bozeman closing in on green power program

By Martin Kidston