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Bill

KS

Bill

HB 263

Generally revise digital asset mining and data center ratemaking laws

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Katie Sullivan

Failed Montana bill would have modified utility ratemaking rules for cryptocurrency mining and data center operations to address power consumption and rate structure questions.

(H) Died in Process
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Bill Summary · HB 263

Legislative bill overview

HB 263 would have revised Montana's regulatory framework governing how utility rates are calculated for digital asset mining operations and data centers. The bill aimed to modify ratemaking laws to address the growing demand from cryptocurrency mining and large computing facilities for electricity. The legislation did not advance past committee consideration.

Why is this important

Digital asset mining and data centers consume substantial amounts of electricity, creating potential rate impacts on other utility customers. Montana has become an attractive location for these operations due to affordable hydroelectric power, making rate regulation a contentious issue between the technology industry and residential/agricultural ratepayers. How utilities price power for these energy-intensive operations affects both business competitiveness and cost-sharing fairness across customer classes.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost allocation between customer classes: Whether mining/data center operators should pay premium rates reflecting grid strain, or standard rates that potentially shift costs to residential and small business customers
  • Environmental and resource concerns: Questions about whether incentivizing power-intensive operations aligns with Montana's energy and climate goals, and impacts on water resources used for hydroelectric generation
  • Economic development vs. utility affordability: Tension between attracting high-value tech industries versus keeping utility costs manageable for existing Montana residents and businesses

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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