PSC holds hearing on portfolio

Some people think NorthWestern Energy's plans to purchase power in future is a good deal and others think it will burden consumers.

Gary Feland, chairman of the Public Service Commission, held a hearing in Havre Tuesday about the portfolio of electrical contracts proposed by NorthWestern Energy to supply customers who have not chosen an electrical supplier of their own. The rate increases expected from the portfolio range from about 20 percent over two years for most consumers, but up to 32 percent for irrigators.

State Sen. Greg Jergeson, D-Chinook, who is running against Feland for the Di...