Project support
Federal, state and county officials praise PPL Montana's Rainbow Dam project
Federal, state and county officials have shared their good wishes for a successful project to redevelopment of PPL Montana’s Rainbow hydroelectric and thanked PPL Montana for making a major investment in the state that will create jobs; increase the production of clean, renewable energy; and help the environment.
U.S. Sen. Max Baucus:
“I send my thanks to the folks at PPL Montana for your commitment and investment in Montana. I applaud projects like the one you’re celebrating at Rainbow Dam, which will increase renewable, clean energy and bring more good-paying jobs to Montana.”
U.S. Sen. Jon Tester:
“The redevelopment of Rainbow Dam is a much needed upgrade that will boost the entire economy of Great Falls. It’s an investment that will help meet the demands of the 21st century.”
U.S. Rep. Denny Rehberg, member of the House Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee:
“I commend PPL’s efforts to improve Rainbow Dam by increasing its generating capacity and improving conditions for migrating fish. In addition to responsibly developing our hydroelectric resources, projects like this provide much-needed jobs and infrastructure for future generations of Montanans.”
Evan Barrett, chief economic development advisor to Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer:
“Montana’s economic growth is centered on renewable energy, and right here is one of those forms of energy. We’re positively excited about this project, which will use Montana’s skilled workforce. That means it will be done right, on time and safely.”
Joe Briggs, chairman, Cascade County Board of Commissioners:
“For many years the citizens of Cascade County will enjoy the boon from this project, not only from the standpoint of the electricity it produces, but also for the enhanced tax base that will help keep taxes down for all of us. We’re grateful to PPL Montana for undertaking this project.”
Bill Bronson, Great Falls City Commissioner:
“Without this type of private development, we can’t do the job that the taxpayers and the citizens expect us to do. PPL Montana deserves our thanks and gratitude.”
Pete Simonich, vice president and chief operating officer of PPL Montana:
“PPL Montana is reinvesting in the state and making responsible use of the state’s valuable natural resources. Montana has a bright future, and PPL is honored to be part of it. Since 1910, at the dawn of the modern age, the Rainbow plant has been producing clean, renewable energy for our region. Now we’re preparing this historic plant for the 21st century.”