Montana 2023 Regular Session

Montana Senate Bill SB387

Introduced
2/17/23  

Caption

Revise laws related to coal, coal tax, and coal-fired unit remediation

Impact

One of the significant impacts of SB 387 is the prohibition against passing certain stranded costs and remediation costs onto ratepayers. This helps safeguard consumers from unforeseen financial burdens that could arise from discontinuities in ownership or operation of coal-fired units. By protecting ratepayers from these costs, the bill aims to alleviate some of the financial pressures on consumers and provide a clearer framework for utility companies navigating ownership transitions.

Summary

Senate Bill 387 focuses on revamping regulations surrounding coal-fired generating units in Montana. Key elements of the bill include provisions for handling maintenance costs and transmission capacities when an owner ceases operation or ownership of a coal unit. It establishes a system whereby an owner who abandons their interest is still liable for a proportionate share of future maintenance costs, thereby ensuring the financial responsibilities are equitably distributed among remaining owners. This could help maintain stable operations for utility services relying on coal-generated power.

Contention

The bill delineates clear responsibilities for abandonment of coal-fired generation units, which may stir debate among stakeholders. While it seeks to enforce accountability, some might argue that it imposes too heavy a financial burden on owners who wish to divest from coal energy. Concerns may also arise regarding how these regulations affect the competitiveness and feasibility of existing coal-fired facilities amid a transition toward cleaner energy sources, and the implications for energy prices in the short and long term.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

MT HB737

Revise laws related to coal fired generating unit remediation

MT HB368

Generally revise water supply requirements for coal-fired generating units

MT HB576

Revise laws related to water and coal mining

MT HB321

Generally revise laws related to the coal trust

MT HB927

Authorize additional authority for coal trust housing loans

MT HB546

Authorize additional funding for coal trust loan program for housing

MT SB387

Generally revise electric bicycle laws

MT HB2713

WV 2021 Plan for Securing WV Coal Supplies

MT HB753

Generally revise laws regulating coal ash

MT SB343

Revert revenue from coal tax to coal trust

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.