NorthWestern announced its plans to purchase the 40MW project, valued at $86m, in April 2011.
If approved by the Montana Public Service Commission (MPSC), the proposed project is to be developed by Compass Wind and placed into utility rate-base for NorthWestern’s Montana electric retail customers.
Upon the completion of the hearing, which is scheduled in mid-December, NorthWestern and the MCC recommend that the Commission issue a final order approving, adopting and implementing the terms of the stipulation and agreement.
If the MPSC fails to grant approval for the project on or before 1 April 2012 , then either party may terminate this agreement, NorthWestern said.
Construction is expected to commence upon a favorable ruling, with commercial operation projected to begin by the end of next year.
