Tuesday January 27 2026

BHE Montana Announces Energization of Glacier Battery System

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Cut Bank, Montana – January 27, 2026 – BHE Montana today announced the successful energization of the Glacier Battery System, a major investment in Montana’s energy infrastructure.

Located near Cut Bank, Montana, the Glacier Battery System represents a $100 million investment in advanced energy storage technology. With a capacity of 75 megawatts for two hours, the system will provide critical grid support, enhance reliability across the region and support BHE Montana’s participation in the Western Energy Imbalance Market.

To put this in perspective, 75 megawatts is enough electricity to power approximately 60,000 homes for two hours – more than the number of households in Great Falls and the surrounding area combined.

“The energization of the Glacier Battery System marks a significant milestone in our commitment to delivering reliable energy to the region,” said Ed Rihn, CEO of BHE Montana.

“This project strengthens our ability to balance supply and demand and ensures customers have the power they need, when they need it. Montana continues to be a great place to invest, and we are excited about our quickly expanding presence here.”

Gov. Greg Gianforte emphasized: “Investments like the Glacier Battery System drive economic growth in Montana. This project not only strengthens our energy infrastructure but also creates jobs and supports local communities, reinforcing Montana’s position as a leader in energy development.”

Senator Steve Daines added: “The Glacier Battery System is a prime example of Montana’s commitment to creating jobs and bolstering energy development. This project and the work by BHE Montana will help keep costs affordable for families across the region, secure future energy resilience for Montana communities, and strengthen our national security.”

“As your Senator, one of my top priorities is supporting Montana’s resource economy in building a successful future so we can create jobs, power America, and make Montana energy affordable, accessible, and reliable again,” Senator Tim Sheehy said. “We will see an exponential increase in demand for baseload power over the next 20 years, and I’m glad to see BHE Montana investing in strengthening our grid and keeping Montana on the leading edge of technological innovation and energy production.”

Rep. Zinke said: “Montana has always been a resource driver for this country, and investments like this prove that our state continues to lead. As energy demand grows, we need reliable infrastructure that keeps the lights on for families and businesses across the region. This $100 million investment near Cut Bank strengthens Montana’s energy backbone and shows that our state is ready to meet rising energy demands with the kind of serious infrastructure America depends on.”

Rep. Downing said: “Montana has the resources to drive the nation’s economy forward. Projects like this one are critical for keeping up with the increasing demand for electricity. I am encouraged that businesses like BHE Montana are committed to doing business in the Great Falls area.”

BHE Montana operates the 189-megawatt Rim Rock windfarm near Kevin, Montana, as well as the 105-megawatt Glacier I and 103.5-megawatt Glacier II windfarms in Glacier and Toole Counties in northern Montana. BHE Montana began construction of the Glacier Solar Park, a 130-megawatt solar generation project, in October 2025.