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Bill to repeal utilities’ right of first refusal for transmission lines draws industry split
Summary
Senate Bill 119 would repeal a 2017 Montana statute that gives incumbent utilities a right of first refusal to build transmission projects in their footprints; proponents argued competition lowers costs while utilities warned of reliability and local maintenance risks.
Senator Wiley Galt opened the committee hearing on Senate Bill 119 by describing the bill as a repealer that would remove the existing right of first refusal that gives incumbent utilities first opportunity to build transmission facilities in their service areas.
Proponents said competition can reduce costs and spur innovation. Anne Hedges of the Montana Environmental Information Center cited a Brattle Group study she provided to the committee, saying competitive bids for transmission projects have been substantially below initial cost estimates. Sharon Segner, senior vice…
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