Large-scale natural gas generation requires access to high-capacity natural gas pipelines and transmission infrastructure capable of delivering power reliably across the region. The selected site in northern Idaho is adjacent to existing natural gas generation and already has both the pipeline capacity and transmission network in place, making it an ideal location for this type of facility.
Building similar infrastructure in Montana, particularly expanding large-capacity natural gas pipelines, would be significantly more complex, and costly for our members, and timelines would be substantially longer. By locating the project where infrastructure already exists, the project can be developed more efficiently and at a lower overall cost.
Flathead Electric Cooperative is part of a regional power network, and electricity does not need to be generated locally to serve our members. Power from this facility will be delivered over existing transmission lines that already supply our system. FEC continues to work closely with Bonneville Power Administration to add transmission capacity to serve our growing area.