he Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is inviting public input on the Draft Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for the proposed North Plains Connector Project. The comment period is open now through February 23, 2026.
The Draft EIS evaluates potential environmental impacts associated with the North Plains Connector, a proposed 525-kilovolt (kV) high-voltage direct-current (HVDC) transmission line designed to deliver 3,000 megawatts (MW) of electricity from the Western grid to Eastern states.
If approved, the project would span approximately 420 miles, beginning near Colstrip, Mont., and reaching two endpoints in North Dakota, near Center and St. Anthony. Construction in Montana would also require a Major Facility Siting Act Certificate of Compliance from DEQ.
DEQ is requesting substantive public comments, which are defined as fact-based, specific, and relevant feedback offering insight, analysis, or constructive suggestions regarding the Draft EIS.
Written comments may be submitted by mail or email, or in person during two public meetings scheduled for January 27 and February 3 from 5–7 p.m. The first meeting will be held in person at the Custer County Event Center in Miles City, while the second will be a virtual session.
The meetings provide an opportunity for the public to learn more about the North Plains Connector Project, DEQ’s environmental review process, and to submit substantive comments on the Draft EIS.
By: DNU staff