MT HB314

Establishes a Montana Energy Authority allocated to the Department of Environmental Quality to facilitate planning, development, and coordination of energy generation and electric transmission facilities

Authority composed of 13 governor-appointed members serving staggered 3-year terms, plus 4 ex officio nonvoting members from state agencies and 2 legislative liaisons; members must represent utilities, cooperatives, developers, and various energy consumption sectors including residential, small business, agricultural, and commercial/industrial

Grants authority powers to employ staff, contract for professional services, receive grants, participate in regional energy transmission organizations, and assist in coordinating electric transmission corridors

Creates a special revenue account funded by up to $700,000 annually from the wholesale energy transaction tax beginning July 1, 2025, to support authority administrative costs

Requires annual reporting to the Energy and Telecommunications Interim Committee before September 1 each year; act terminates December 31, 2031