Implementing the Green Energy Transition in Montana: What Would it Take?

In an era where people of different political persuasions seemingly can’t even agree that the sun rises in the East, it is easy for some to discount or dismiss the notion that carbon-emitting energy production is going away. Just as it is a matter of faith with others that an emissions-free world is right around the corner. These swift conclusions gloss over the hard questions the coming years will force us to address: What would it actually take to power the largest economy in the world within the emissions targets set by our leaders, and what is the most effective way to carry that out?

For our 49th annual Economic Outlook Seminar we add an additional question: What would it mean for Montana? Our colder climate and our large geography have combined to make us one of the most energy-dependent states in the country. We are also a state that mines metals and minerals, and the green energy shopping list for what we could produce is potentially a long one.

A dose of reality is what we think the political battles over green energy need, and that’s exactly what the 2024 Economic Outlook Seminars aim to provide. We hope you can join us for what certainly looks to be a spirited, informative discussion.