The Energy and Telecommunications Interim Committee (ETIC) has broad oversight
over a range of energy and telecommunication-related topics in Montana. The
committee conducts interim studies as assigned by the Legislative Council or
selected by members and reviews the administrative rules proposed by the Department
of Public Service Regulation (DPSR) and the Public Service Commission (PSC).
There are a number of state entities involved in various aspects of energy production and consumption in Montana. The Consumer Counsel represents Montana public utility consumers before the Public Service Commission, state and federal courts, and administrative agencies in matters concerning public utility regulation. The DEQ's Energy and Pollution Prevention Bureau is responsible for improving energy efficiency and increasing the use of renewable energy for power generation. In 2007 the Energy Promotion and Development Division was established within the Department of Commerce to help implement Governor Schweitzer's 'clean and green' energy initiatives.
