The timing reflects growing reliability concerns across the Pacific Northwest. Electricity demand is increasing, while some existing power plants are retiring and new resources are not being added quickly enough to keep pace. This has led to tighter supply conditions, particularly during peak demand periods.
Acting now allows Flathead Electric Cooperative, through PNGC Power, to secure needed capacity before shortages become more severe and more expensive to address. Planning ahead helps ensure reliable service for our members and avoids the higher costs and risks associated with waiting until the market is even tighter.
Learn More About Regional Reliability
- 2026 Northwest Regional Forecast | Pacific Northwest Utilities Conference Committee (PNUCC)
- Resource Adequacy and the Energy Transition in the Pacific Northwest | Energy + Environmental Economics (E3)
- 2025 Western Assessment of Resource Adequacy | Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC)
- Long-Term Reliability Assessment, January 2026 | North American Electric Reliability Corporation (NERC)