Although Montana customers will continue to be provided with reliable electricity, the economy will inevitably suffer in total size, prosperity, and population as a byproduct of a Clean Power Plan. Statewide employment will be met with a reduction of 7,100 jobs, half a billion dollars in Montana household income, $1.5 billion in gross business receipts, $145 million in state revenues, and population by 10,000 people and 3,000 potential students. A major component of this substantial drop-off comes from a particular employer, Colstrip SES, closing down as this company’s nature makes it profitable for employees and Montana’s export industry, while a company with a smaller economic and environmental footprint has less need for labor and material-handling processes.
University of Montana – Economic Implications of Clean Power Plan [full PDF]
