The Governor’s plan was warmly welcomed by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), emphasising, as it does, continued support for Montana’s Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS). The RPS can help the state reach its wind energy reach potential while creating significant economic and environmental benefits.
The blueprint advocates the expansion of transmission infrastructure, including long distance power lines, in order to move Montana’s electricity to strong and growing markets for renewable energy. At present, Montana’s wind turbines total 665 MW capacity, generating enough power for nearly 180,000 average homes, but analysis by the US Department of Energy (DOE) suggests that they can produce much more, representing enough power for 6.4 million average homes by 2030.
“Governor Bullock’s energy blueprint provides the framework for Montana to develop its world class wind resource and capture a significant portion of the region’s rapidly expanding markets for wind power” said Tom Darin, Senior Director for Western State Policy, AWEA. “The Governor’s plan has the right focus on specific state actions and transmission upgrades to expand Montana’s historically strong export economy and significantly increase wind energy as part of Montana’s diverse energy portfolio. This combination will enable Montana to realize substantial economic development and consumer savings benefits from new wind projects.”
Wind power costs have fallen by two-thirds in the last six years, making wind generated electricity very attractive for export as well as generating savings for homes and businesses in the state. Indeed, the Wind Energy Foundation reports that growing wind energy in Montana could deliver $677 million in electricity bill savings.
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