Montana Eyes Major Overhaul of Public Service Commission

Montana’s energy governance faces a pivotal structural shift with a proposed overhaul of the Public Service Commission.

Governor Greg Gianforte’s energy task force, commissioned in September 2025, has recommended changing the PSC from an elected to an appointed body and establishing coordinated state energy leadership. These reforms aim to address growing electricity demand and governance challenges.

The PSC currently comprises five elected commissioners, all Republicans, each representing a district. The task force report, released August 25, 2026, responds in part to misconduct allegations against Commissioner Brad Molnar, who is suspended for one year. It also tackles utility issues like data center service and the NorthWestern Energy-Black Hills Corp. merger. Senator Chris Pope and Representative Gary Parry, both task force members, are advancing draft legislation and proposals to enact these recommendations in the 2027 Legislature. Task force Vice President Jennifer Fielder emphasized the need for commissioners with deep energy policy expertise and accountability.

The 2027 Montana Legislature is expected to debate these significant reforms.

For Montana businesses, this potential shift from elected to appointed commissioners could recalibrate regulatory stability and expertise, affecting energy policy and infrastructure decisions. In a state where energy production and rural interests intertwine with political oversight, a more coordinated leadership approach might influence investment and operational risk assessments in the energy sector.

Gianforte’s energy task force calls for PSC reform
By Keila Szpaller, Daily Montanan