Montana Residents Stunned: Northwestern Energy Seeks 9% Natural Gas Rate Hike – What’s Next?

Northwestern Energy has filed a proposal with the Montana Public Service Commission that could raise natural gas rates by nearly 9%, leaving thousands of households bracing for higher energy bills. The utility giant argues the increase is necessary to cover rising infrastructure costs, but critics warn it could strain already tight budgets.

Why the Sudden Spike?

According to Northwestern Energy, the proposed hike stems from:

• Pipeline upgrades – Aging infrastructure requires safety improvements.
• Inflation pressures – Rising material and labor costs.
• Regulatory compliance – New federal and state mandates.

If approved, the average residential customer would pay an extra $8–$12 monthly starting in late 2025. The Montana Consumer Counsel, however, has vowed to scrutinize the request, calling it "excessive" amid record utility profits.

How Montana Compares Nationally

Montana’s potential increase outpaces the national average. Recent data shows:

1. Natural gas rates rose 4.2% nationwide in 2024.
2. Western states averaged 6.1% hikes this year.
3. Montana’s last major rate adjustment was a 5.3% jump in 2023.

What You Can Do

Residents can voice concerns at the PSC’s public hearings in August. Experts also recommend:

• Requesting an energy audit to identify savings.
• Exploring state low-income assistance programs.
• Submitting written comments to regulators before July 15.

What Do You Think?

• Should utilities prioritize shareholder profits over affordability?
• Is a 9% hike justified when Northwestern reported $287M in Q1 earnings?
• Would you support public ownership of utilities to curb price surges?
• Are renewable energy alternatives the real solution to rising costs?