Governor Greg Gianforte’s Energy Task Force will host a series of public open houses aimed at gathering input from Montanans on key energy issues facing the state.
The first of three events is scheduled for Feb. 25 from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Copper Lounge on the campus of Montana Technological University in Butte.
Additional open houses are planned for March 25 in Miles City and April 15 in Colstrip.
According to the governor’s office, the open house format is designed to encourage direct engagement. There will be no formal presentations. Instead, attendees will have the opportunity to speak one-on-one with members of the Energy Task Force, ask questions, and offer feedback on a range of energy topics.
Staff from state agencies will also be available to discuss regulatory authority related to energy development. The Butte event will include information tables hosted by local government representatives, NorthWestern Energy, and Sabey Data Centers to address questions about energy resources and data center development in Butte and Silver Bow County.
Governor Gianforte established the Energy Task Force through an executive order in September 2025, charging the bipartisan group with developing recommendations and strategies to increase the supply of affordable and reliable energy options in Montana.
The task force meets regularly and is expected to submit written recommendations to Governor Gianforte in September 2026 and January 2027.
State officials say the open houses are intended to ensure public input plays a central role in shaping Montana’s energy future.
By: DNU sttaff