Montana has been awarded $700 million in federal funding to advance the North Plains Connector, a pioneering 415-mile high-voltage, direct-current transmission line that will bridge the eastern and western U.S. energy grids. This landmark project, spearheaded by Grid United and Allete, aims to enhance energy reliability across more than 20 states by facilitating power transfer between regions.

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant, announced by Governor Greg Gianforte on Tuesday, marks a significant step forward for the $3.6 billion project, which will connect Montana's Colstrip substation to Center, North Dakota. This initiative could become the first high-voltage line to link the nation's two major power grids, a move hailed as crucial for improving energy resilience and market integration.

The North Plains Connector has garnered support from several key utilities, including NorthWestern Energy and Portland General Electric. The latter has reserved a 20% capacity share in the project, which will help balance the variability of its renewable energy sources.

As the project progresses, Grid United is preparing to apply for federal environmental review this fall, with facility siting work set to begin in Montana and North Dakota. The state has also secured an additional $46 million to improve infrastructure along the transmission route, a boost to local communities and the workforce.

"This investment will modernize Montana's electrical infrastructure, create good-paying jobs, and lower energy costs for Montanans," said Senator Jon Tester, who played a key role in securing the funding.

Source: ekalakaeagle.com