(MT) PSC sets rates for renewable power producers (Dems vs. GOP)

[jpak]

http://www.missoulian.com/articles/2006/12/13/news/local/news04.txt

HELENA - A bitterly divided Public Service Commission on Tuesday approved new prices for small “renewable” power projects in Montana selling to NorthWestern Energy, with Republicans arguing the decision will cost electric ratepayers more money.

Yet Democrats, who made up the 3-2 majority approving the rates, said the prices and standard contract are required by law and won't increase rates by much, if at all. They also said the decision will help encourage development of small wind-power and other alternative energy projects across Montana.

“This is consumer protection, its good public policy,” said Commissioner Tom Schneider, D-Helena. “It's consistent with the law; it's the right thing to do.”
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The commission, which regulates utilities in Montana, set price and contract terms for renewable power projects up to 10 megawatts in size, which is relatively small.

NorthWestern must buy the power and incorporate it into the electricity it sells to more than 300,000 Montana customers.

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[Double T]

1. Wind Turbines are our future; ANYTHING that can be done to increase the number.......

of Wind Turbine Power Generators is good for our energy independence from the ripoff fossil fuel cartels.