NorthWestern Energy bills to increase again

NorthWestern Energy customers will see another increase in their electric bills beginning July 1.

The average residential electric bill is expected to rise from about $124 a month to $131, according to a filing with the Montana Public Service Commission. Four years ago, the average monthly bill was just over $91.

NorthWestern says the increase is tied to higher fuel and other variable costs and notes that Montana electric rates remain below the national average. The utility also says investments in facilities such as the Yellowstone County Generation Station and Colstrip help provide reliable service and long-term rate stability.

Consumer advocates with the Montana Environmental Information Center argue the increases are unnecessary and come at a time when many Montanans are already struggling with affordability. The group says rates have climbed 44 percent since 2022 and points to lower-than-expected power sales as a factor driving costs higher.

The Public Service Commission will review the costs later this year, but the increase is scheduled to take effect July 1.

https://dailymontanan.com/2026/06/16/northwestern-energy-bills-to-increase-again/