The $206 million plant would be used to stabilize the electric grid. The plant would also allow NorthWestern to take more wind power onto the system. NorthWestern says the plant is the first step in "re-regulating" the company that was split apart from the old Montana Power Company.

The Montana Environmental Information Center says it supports the project because the company needs the ability to own and control power plants. NorthWestern hopes to start building the plant next year if it can get the permits.