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Senate advances SJR12 for interim study of electric transmission capacity and economic impacts
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution 12 was recommended for passage by the Committee of the Whole to study transmission congestion and curtailment affecting Montana’s electricity users; the committee recorded 42 ayes and 8 nays on second reading.
Senate Joint Resolution 12, an interim study of electric transmission capacity and the economic impact of observed congestion and curtailment, was recommended for passage by the Committee of the Whole and passed on second reading, 42–8.
Sponsor Senator Hunter said the study will examine transmission capacity, interconnection concerns, large industrial loads, and potential transmission upgrades and costs. He said Montana’s transmission network is central to future renewable and industrial development and that the study would inform planning for reliable, resilient power.
Senator Pope and others said neighboring states have seen economic benefits from transmission investments that attracted large industrial energy users; Pope urged support for the study on that basis. The sponsor noted prior interim work on transmission issues forced stakeholders to engage and sometimes reach solutions without legislation.
The clerk recorded 42 ayes and 8 nays; the motion recommending the study passed. The resolution requires a final study report to the 70th Legislature.
