DOE Steps Into Review of Montana-to-Dakotas Power Line Megaproject
Published Date: 11/19/2025
Notice
Summary
The Department of Energy is updating its role in the North Plains Connector Project, a big power line from Montana to North Dakota. Now, DOE confirms it has decision power tied to a $700 million grant that helps make the power grid stronger and more reliable. This means local communities and the environment will be carefully considered as the project moves forward, with important reviews happening soon.
Analyzed Economic Effects
3 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 2 mixed.
DOE May Finalize $605M Grant
DOE clarified it has a decision role over a conditional GRIP award announced in August 2024 of up to $700,000,000 for the North Plains Connector Interregional Innovation project. If DOE finalizes the award, it would provide approximately $605,000,000 in Federal funding to the Montana Department of Commerce, to be disbursed in phases for planning, procurement, permitting, construction, and commissioning of the project.
GRIP Program Targets Grid Resilience
DOE is administering the $10,500,000,000 Grid Resilience and Innovations Partnership (GRIP) Program created by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act to enhance grid flexibility and resilience so all American communities have access to affordable, reliable electricity. The amended notice says DOE will consider Congressional intent to support innovative transmission, storage, distribution, and interconnection projects.
Colstrip Substation Expansion Details
The EIS will analyze specific upgrades at the Colstrip Substation, including the possible installation of two new 500 kV bays, upgrading the 500 kV bus to a 5,000-Amp rating, and expanding the existing substation footprint by about 4 acres to the northwest and about 9 acres to the south and east. These physical changes are part of the proposed North Plains Connector Project between Colstrip, Montana and Center/St. Anthony, North Dakota.
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