NorthWestern News

NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Great Falls Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:26:22 GMT

Butte, Mont. – November 2, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Great Falls, Montana, area to attend its Home Energy Makeover Expo this Saturday, November 7, at the Montana Expo Park, Trades and Industry Building, 400 Third Street NW from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Expo, which will be held in conjunction with another round of weatherization kit giveaways, will include activities such as pictures with Louie the Lightning Bug, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations. This year, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest at the Saturday event.

“Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded our events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to small scale renewable energy applications,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications. “Customers that are interested in finding ways to save energy will be able to speak one-on-one with energy experts.”

Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at the expos or weekday kit giveaway events. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

The Great Falls Home Energy Makeover Expo is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Great Falls Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 08:26:22 GMT

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Reports Third Quarter 2009 Financial Results

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 15:18:13 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – Oct. 28, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) reported financial results for the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2009.

Refer to attachment.

NorthWestern Energy customers Invited to Helena Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 13:51:01 GMT

Butte, Mont. – October 26, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Helena area to attend its Home Energy Makeover Expo this Saturday, October 31, at the Lewis and Clark Fairgrounds, 98 West Custer Avenue from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Expo, which will be held in conjunction with another round of weatherization kit giveaways, will include activities such as pictures with Louie and Sniffy, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations. This year, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest at the Saturday event.

“Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded our events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to small scale renewable energy applications,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications. “Customers that are interested in finding ways to save energy will be able to speak one-on-one with energy experts.”

Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at the expos or weekday kit giveaway events. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

The Helena Home Energy Makeover Expo is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Butte, Mont., Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 11:49:30 GMT

Butte, Mont. – October 19, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Butte area to attend its Home Energy Makeover Expo this Saturday (October 24) at the Butte Plaza Mall, Mall Events Center, 3100 Harrison Ave. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Expo, which will be held in conjunction with another round of weatherization kit giveaways, will include activities such as pictures with Louie and Sniffy, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations. This year, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest at the Saturday event.

“Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded our events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to small scale renewable energy applications,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications. “Customers that are interested in finding ways to save energy will be able to speak one-on-one with energy experts.”

Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at the expos or weekday kit giveaway events. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

The Butte Home Energy Makeover Expo is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Submits Delivery Services General Rate Case Filing to the Montana Public Service Commission

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 04:05:00 GMT

Butte, Mont. – October 19, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today submitted its general rate filing to the Montana Public Service Commission seeking approval to change several components of its delivery services charges for Montana electricity and natural gas customers. This filing was required pursuant to a stipulation approved by the Montana PSC in 2008.

If approved, the proposed changes would result in an increase of $0.08, or less than one-tenth of one percent, for a typical natural gas customer using 10 dekatherms/per month. A typical residential electric customer’s total monthly bill would increase by $2.41 or about 3.35%. The company has asked for an interim rate adjustment pending the full review by the Commission.

“This filing addresses the foundational aspects associated with the day-to-day operations and maintenance of our electric and natural gas infrastructure,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO. “Despite the economic downturn and other challenges, this is an exciting time to work at NorthWestern. We’re making the appropriate investments in our system to provide safe and reliable service. We’re engaging our stakeholders at all levels to prepare our system to meet the expectations our customers have for utility service now and in the future.”

The proposed changes include new cost allocation between rate classes and rate designs. The proposals introduce an inclining block residential rate structure that would assign more costs to residential customers that use more energy within each rate class. Under this methodology, some customers would see higher increases than the typical residential customer while other residential customers may experience lower rates than average. The intent of the inclining structure is to provide additional incentive to larger volume residential users to reduce their consumption through adoption of energy efficiency measures.

The amount of the proposed rate increases, based on a requested authorized return on equity of 10.9% and a weighted cost of capital of 8.3%, has been reduced as a result of a reduction to income tax expense due to recent changes made to the tax accounting method related to capital expenditures and repair expenses. As a result of this change, NorthWestern’s proposed revenue requirement for its natural gas utility was reduced from approximately $4.8 million to $1.96 million and for its electric utility from $24.1 million to $15.5 million. The general rate filing does not address energy supply issues, which are addressed in other proceedings. The transmission and distribution components of a typical total bill represent less than 50% for residential electric and natural gas customers with energy supply costs making up the balance of the bill amounts.

The charts below show the relationship between the regulated delivery service costs and rates and “pass through” electric and natural gas supply costs. Delivery rates have been stable in recent years with relatively few and relatively modest adjustments. Volatility in customer bills has been primarily due to adjustments in market-based natural gas and electric supply costs, which commonly comprise more than one-half of a customer’s total bill.

Note: Click here to download larger images of the charts.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Rick Burt
(866) 622-8081
rick.burt@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Innovative Partnership to Develop Community Based Biomass Power in Montana

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 11:32:33 GMT

NorthWestern Energy and Montana Community Development Corporation are partnering with sawmills and landowners

Butte/Missoula, Mont. – October 15, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy and the Montana Community Development Corporation (MCDC) are partnering with eight Montana sawmills and public and private landowners to help develop community-based biomass power in Montana. The partnership will create a coordinated business plan to enable the production of wood-fueled power in the state.

The joint effort includes every player in the chain of biomass power production including owners of existing forest products facilities, public and private landowners and a regional power purchaser. “Bringing all the essential players to the table is what makes this partnership so unique,” says Rosalie Cates, President of MCDC.

Individual sawmills have previously worked on separate plans to produce and provide NorthWestern Energy with biomass generated power by constructing wood-fired plants at various locations in the state. However, each mill encountered significant cost and technical issues when it came to delivering the power to the grid.

NorthWestern wants to help bridge that gap. “We know that biomass power can be good for forests, and good for Montana’s timber industry,” said John Fitzpatrick, NorthWestern’s Executive Director – Government Affairs. “This feasibility study will lead to the development of a comprehensive business plan that addresses our goal of adding a significant amount of biomass resources to our portfolio.”

“If this project moves forward it will help address the environmental impact of pine beetle blight, provide a local economic development impact, and help diversify electric supply for our customers. We have discussed with our Congressional Delegation ways that federal energy and climate legislation could help support this exciting project,” said Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy’s President and CEO.

The partnership’s feasibility study includes analysis of the biomass supplies available on private and public land, potential biomass generation facilities, operational requirements and preliminary impacts of the biomass production on local economies and the environment. Each of the eight mill sites will be assessed, so that NorthWestern and the sawmill businesses can identify and address issues such as connectivity to power lines, cost efficiencies, and technical problems. The end result of the process will be a statewide plan that could enable all parties to finalize investment plans and begin plant construction.

“It is not every day that this kind of joint effort comes together,” added Cates. “The issues around biomass sourcing, community-sized power facilities, and connection to transmission are very complex. Only in Montana do small power producers like these sawmills have the opportunity to work directly with the power company to find solutions. I think it will be a model nationally. ”

The participating mills are Eagle Stud Mill (Hall), Plum Creek Timber (Columbia Falls), RY Timber (Townsend and Livingston), Pyramid Mountain Lumber (Seeley Lake), Sun Mountain Lumber (Deer Lodge), Tricon Timber (St Regis), and FH Stoltze Land & Lumber (Columbia Falls)

All of the state’s major forestland owners are participating in the partnership including the: US Forest Service, Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation, Plum Creek Timber, The Nature Conservancy, Stimson Lumber Company and the Blackfoot Challenge.

The Biomass Energy Feasibility Study is partially funded by a grant from The Montana Department of Commerce in the amount of $125,000, authorized by The Montana Reinvestment Act. The US Endowment for Forestry and Communities provided a grant of $50,000 to support MCDC’s work with biomass energy in Montana. Carlton Owen, Endowment president and CEO, believes this partnership could be a national model for woody biomass power generation. “The $50,000 award to MCDC recognizes the relevance and importance this project holds for forests, wood products manufacturing and domestically- produced energy across the nation.”

About Montana Community Development Corporation
MCDC is a non-profit financing institution dedicated to building better community through its business lending and consulting efforts. MCDC lends about $3 million per year to small businesses that fall outside traditional bank standards, provides New Markets Tax Credit financing to large scale business development and assists over 200 companies a year with business consulting. Since 2001, MCDC has operated a Forest Business Consulting service with the goal of assisting Montana’s timber industry to create environmentally and financially sustainable business models. More information on MCDC is available on the company’s web site at www.mtcdc.org.

Media Contacts:

NorthWestern Energy:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Montana Community Development Corp:
Rosalie Cates
(406) 782-9234 #205
rcates@mtcdc.org

NorthWestern Energy Plans Outage in the Aberdeen Area for House Move

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 13:31:47 GMT

Huron, S.D. – October 14, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy has scheduled a power outage within the Aberdeen city limits to accommodate the moving of a large apartment building. The outage will begin Wednesday, October 21, at approximately 12:00 a.m., and will last an estimated 2.5 hours.

The outage will affect the two different areas: one is located from 1^st Ave. SW to the south side of 6^th Ave. SW between 3^rd St. S and 5^th St. S. The second area that will be affected is between 6^th Avenue and 9^th Ave. between 5^th St. S and Klein St. South.

“We understand this is an inconvenience for customers, and we thank you for your patience,” said Randy Otto – Aberdeen Area Engineer. “This brief outage will ensure that the apartment building is clear of any overhead power lines while it is being moved along the road.”

State law requires utilities to provide safe clearance for scheduled building and other large structure moves taking place where overhead lines could be a danger.

If weather prevents the apartment move, the outage will be rescheduled.

Customers with questions may call the Contact Center at (800) 245-6977.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Bozeman, Mont. Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 14:44:28 GMT

Butte, Mont. – October 12, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Bozeman, Montana area to attend its Home Energy Makeover Expo this Saturday (October 17) at the Gallatin County Fairgrounds, Building Four, 901 North Black St. from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Expo, which will be held in conjunction with another round of weatherization kit giveaways, will include activities such as pictures with Louie and Sniffy, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations. This year, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest at the Saturday event.

“Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded our events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to small scale renewable energy applications,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications. “Customers that are interested in finding ways to save energy will be able to speak one-on-one with energy experts.”

Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at the expos or weekday kit giveaway events. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

The Bozeman Home Energy Makeover Expo is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern to Host Third Quarter 2009 Financial Results Conference Call

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 15:41:52 GMT

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – October 9, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that it will host an investor conference call on Thursday, October 29, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time (10:00 a.m. Central Time) to review its financial results for the quarter ended September 30, 2009.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading. To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at noon ET on October 29, 2009, through November 29, 2009, at 800-475-6701, access code 118865.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:

Claudia Rapkoch

(866) 622-8081

claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:

Dan Rausch

(605) 978-2902

daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Submits Energy Efficiency Program Plans to South Dakota Public Utilities Commission For Consideration

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 09:14:42 GMT

Huron, S.D. – October 9, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy has submitted a plan to the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission that, if approved, would enable the company to offer its customers a broad array of energy efficiency programs.

Demand Side Management (DSM) Programs are energy efficiency programs or plans that encourage customers to conserve energy through the installation of energy saving equipment, building upgrades, energy consumption habit modification, and overall energy usage education. The end result is educated consumers and less wasted consumption of energy.

An added benefit of DSM programs to energy customers, shareholders and utilities is that by using less energy, utilities are able to prolong their need for rate increases by delaying the need to construct expensive peak generation or base load generation projects.

NorthWestern’s Montana utility has offered successful DSM programs for approximately 20 years and the SD DSM Plan is based on the company’s experience with those programs. Under the submitted plan, SD DSM programs would be funded through a monthly per customer surcharge that mirrors similar funding mechanisms used by energy utilities in their SD PUC approved DSM plans.

“In talking with our customers over the past few years we have learned that many are very interested in learning about things they can do to their home or business to help conserve energy,” said Pamela Bonrud – Director SD/NE Government and Regulatory Affairs. “That desire to ‘do it yourself’ tells us that this is the right time for our South Dakota customers to receive benefits for that way of thinking.”

The proposed DSM Plan includes rebates for the installation of energy saving products, like insulation, lighting and programmable thermostats. Home and business energy audits will be a key component of the proposed DSM Plan should it receive PUC approval. Mail-in energy audits would be available to residential electric customers that use electricity for only lights and appliances. Electric and natural gas space heating and water heating customers would qualify for on-site home energy audits, if their home is more than five years old. Audited customers would receive feedback about their energy usage habits, and the recommended steps to resolve inefficient habits or structural deficiencies causing excessive energy consumption.

“The home energy audit is the cornerstone of our DSM plan, and it is one of the best things that customers could be involved with in order to improve their energy efficiency,” said Bobbi Schroeppel – Vice President Customer Care/Communications/Human Resources. “During our Home Suite Home Giveaway in 2008, a South Dakota family won a new energy efficient clothes washer and dryer. Also included in the prize package was an on-site home energy audit. The winning family said the most valuable item in the prize package was the information gleaned from the auditors.”

Assuming the SD PUC approves the program by the end of this year, the company intends to begin rolling out the programs to customers in early 2010.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Lewistown, Montana Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 15:24:03 GMT

Butte , Mont. – October 5, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Lewistown, Montana area to attend its Home Energy Makeover Expo this Saturday, October 10, at the Fergus County Fairgrounds Ag Building, 1000 US Hwy 191, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Expo, which will be held in conjunction with another round of weatherization kit giveaways, will include activities such as pictures with Louie and Sniffy, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations. This year, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest at the Saturday event.

“Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded our events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to small scale renewable energy applications,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications. “Customers that are interested in finding ways to save energy will be able to speak one-on-one with energy experts.”

Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at the expos or weekday kit giveaway events. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

The Lewistown Home Energy Makeover Expo is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Issues Important Safety Reminders About Downed Power Lines and Other Weather-Related Concerns

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 13:01:20 GMT

Butte , Mont. – October 5, 2009 – As the first major winter storm of the season pushes through Montana, NorthWestern Energy is reminding customers how to stay safe and warm during severe weather.

Downed power lines are potentially a problem in areas that experience high winds or heavy snow loading. Downed power lines may still be energized and should be avoided at all times. Stay away from downed or low hanging power lines (even if you think it may be a phone or cable line). Keep others clear of the area and call NorthWestern Energy or 911 and we will come take care of it as soon as possible.

If your home or business loses power, please call us to report the outage. Occasionally, outages during major storms may be longer than normal. While our crews will be working as quickly as possible to restore any electric outages that may occur, there are a few things in the event the electricity goes out.

Remember to keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed to retain the cold.
Unplug sensitive electrical equipment such as computers and televisions.
Keep flashlights (with fresh batteries) handy and easily accessible.
Keep portable generators in good working condition, and set up according to the manufacturer’s specifications by qualified electricians to ensure your safety and the safety of our employees who may be working to restore your service.

Natural gas customers should make sure their appliance vents are kept clear of snow and ice. Customers who are having problems with their heating units should check first to ensure the appliance vents are clear of snow, clean, and in good repair to ensure proper venting. Other safety tips to remember if you lose heat in your home:

Use a wood stove or fireplace only if they are in safe working condition and vented outside.
Only use propane or kerosene space heaters as a last resort, and be sure to leave a window open ensuring adequate ventilation to allow sufficient combustion air and to permit exhaust by-products to exit. Carbon monoxide (CO) can build up quickly if the heater isn't working properly.
Do not place a space heater within three feet of anything that may catch on fire, such as drapes, furniture, or bedding.
Never use a hibachi or charcoal barbeque indoors—the fumes are deadly.
Don’t try to heat your home with the flame from a range or oven.
Elderly people, infants, and people with certain medical conditions are at greater risk of hypothermia, even indoors. Dress in layers, and use blankets to ward off a chill. Drink warm beverages, but avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can exacerbate hypothermic situations. If you lose heat in your home, consider going to another location that has heat.

If you experience problems with natural gas heat or an electrical outage, please call
NorthWestern Energy right away.

Gas Emergencies: 1-888-467-2427
Electric Emergencies: 1-888-467-2353

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Notifies Customers of Planned Power Outage in Doland, South Dakota

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 09:48:18 GMT

Huron, S.D. – October 5, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy is notifying customers of an upcoming planned power outage for residents in Doland, South Dakota. The outage, planned for Wednesday, October 14, 2009, will begin at 6:30 a.m. and will last approximately one half hour. The outage could affect some rural customers in the area as well.

“We need to have a brief outage in order to upgrade equipment on the transformers that serve the town. In order to complete the work safely, we need to interrupt power to the city of Doland,” said Craig Schroeder – District Superintendent- Doland. “We appreciate our customer’s understanding during this outage.”

Customers with questions may call the Contact Center at (800) 245-6977.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Taps Private Placement Market for $55 Million 30-Year First Mortgage Bonds

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 14:30:00 GMT

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – October 2, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that on September 30, 2009, NorthWestern Corporation (the “Company”) entered into a purchase agreement to sell $55,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 5.71% First Mortgage Bonds due October 15, 2039, with Country Life Insurance Company, Canada Life Insurance Company of America, and John Hancock Life Insurance Company.

The Company will use the entire net proceeds from this offering to pay a portion of the costs of the proposed Mill Creek generation project and/or fund future capital expenditures.

“This offering demonstrates NorthWestern’s ability to access the debt markets at favorable terms as we look forward to financing our growth initiatives,” said Brian Bird, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer.

For more information on NorthWestern Energy, please visit our Website at www.northwesternenergy.com.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Provides Update on Upcoming Montana General Rate Case Filing

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:40:52 GMT

Butte, Mont. – September 29, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today filed a motion with the Montana Public Service Commission requesting permission to delay the filing of its anticipated general rate case up to one month while it reviews the implications of recently received Internal Revenue Service approval to change the tax accounting method related to capital expenditures and repair expenses.

NorthWestern was notified last Friday that the IRS had accepted a tax position advocated by NorthWestern to change the tax accounting method related to certain capital expenditures and repair expenses. Pursuant to that notification, NorthWestern has forty-five (45) days to formally accept the IRS notification. NorthWestern is currently reviewing the impact of this tax accounting change both internally and externally with its outside tax accounting firm, and anticipates that it will formally accept the IRS position.

Initial analysis of the impact of this tax accounting change reveals a potentially substantial material reduction to current income tax expense and a corresponding reduction to the revenue requirement NorthWestern will be proposing in its general rate case filing. Within the next few weeks, NorthWestern plans to incorporate the new tax accounting change into its general rate case application, re-work the statements, work-papers and testimony accordingly, and file the general rate case application as soon as possible, but by no later than October 30, 2009.

Media Update:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Kalispell, Montana, Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 09:42:45 GMT

Butte, Mont. – September 28, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Kalispell, Montana, area to attend its Home Energy Makeover Expo this Saturday (October 3) at the Flathead County Fairgrounds, Country Fair Kitchen, 265 North Meridian Road from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Expo, which will be held in conjunction with another round of weatherization kit giveaways, will include activities such as pictures with Sniffy the Sniffasaurus, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations. This year, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest at the Saturday event.

“Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded our events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to do-it-yourself efficiency measures,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications. “Customers that are interested in finding ways to save energy will be able to speak one-on-one with energy experts.”

NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

The Kalispell Home Energy Makeover Expo is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy provides electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Update
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy's Montana Customers Invited to Do-It-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 15:23:34 GMT

Butte , Mont. – September 21, 2009 – While electricity and natural gas costs are expected to remain fairly moderate this winter compared to previous years, the company strongly encourages customers to take the appropriate steps to keep their homes safe and warm beginning with a visit to a “Do-it-yourself Home Energy Makeover” expo or event this fall.

More than 40 events are planned in locations around Montana beginning this week and continuing through mid-November. The company will be distributing free weatherization kits to customers who have not yet received a kit in previous years. Customers who have previously received kits should still plan to attend a Home Energy Expo, which includes a variety of activities such as pictures with Louie and Sniffy, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations.

NorthWestern Energy expects electricity supply costs to be about the same as last year while natural gas costs are expected to be about 15-percent lower than last year. Actual bill amounts depend on how much energy a customer uses and so far the experts seem divided on whether this will be a mild or a colder than normal winter. That’s why NorthWestern emphasizes low-cost weatherization measures to help your home better withstand the elements – what ever they may be.

This year at the Saturday expos, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest.

“Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded our events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to small scale renewable energy applications,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications. “Customers that are interested in finding ways to save energy will be able to speak one-on-one with energy experts.”

Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at the expos or weekday kit giveaway events. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

Please visit http://www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits and the home energy makeover contest, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

Download the PDF for the full event schedule.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Missoula Do-it-Yourself Home Energy Expo and Events

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 13:58:26 GMT

Butte , Mont. – September 21, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Missoula area to attend its Home Energy Makeover Expo this Saturday (September 26) at the Missoula Fairgrounds Home Arts Building, 1101 South Avenue West from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

The Expo, which will be held in conjunction with another round of weatherization kit giveaways, will include activities such as pictures with Louie and Sniffy, balloons and giveaways for the kids, free refreshments, safety education and E+ how-to demonstrations. This year, the company also will distribute free carbon monoxide detectors to residential gas customers (limit one per household and while supplies last) and we’ve invited a variety of vendors to provide information, displays and demonstrations to compliment NorthWestern’s E+ rebate programs. The National Weather Service is hosting a booth this year and the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) will provide information on state and federal tax incentives for implementing energy efficiency measures. In addition, NorthWestern Energy customers can register to win an extreme home energy makeover by registering for the Home Energy Makeover contest at the Saturday event.

Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at the expos or weekday kit giveaway events. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a starter weatherization kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the expo or events. Further qualifications may apply.

The Missoula Home Energy Makeover Expo is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter weatherization kits and the home energy makeover contest, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Plans Public Meetings in Billings and Missoula, Montana

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 08:09:44 GMT

Butte , Mont. – September 14, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy invites the public to attend a meeting regarding the company’s electric transmission system and how we plan to meet our Montana customer’s needs. The meeting will be held Tuesday, September 22, in Billings; and Thursday, September 24, in Missoula.

To maintain adequate and reliable service for our Montana customers, NorthWestern Energy regularly studies its electric transmission system. This past year, NorthWestern has completed a study that looks 15 years into the future. The company is seeking public comment regarding the plan at the two meetings. At the meetings, the company will present the plan and then open the floor for a question and answer session.

Location details:

Date:          Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Time:           7 p.m.
Location:     NorthWestern Energy Service Center
                   405 South 20th Street West
                   Billings, MT

Date:           Thursday, September 24, 2009
Time:           7 p.m.
Location:      NorthWestern Energy Service Center
                    1801 South Russell Street
                    Missoula, MT

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

MSTI Will Provide Economic and Environmental Benefits

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:53:44 GMT

Editor's Note: The following comments are provided by Dave Gates, Vice President, Wholesale Operations in response to Commissioner Brad Molner's column which appeared in The Montana Standard on August 20, 2009.

Butte, Mont. — September 1, 2009 — A recent exchange on this page between Public Service Commissioner Brad Molnar and four legislators raised some questions about NorthWestern Energy’s Mountain States Transmission Intertie (MSTI) power line proposal.

Rather than rehash the arguments, let me restate the information needing clarification.

We, at NorthWestern Energy, are rebuilding a supply of cost-based “rate-based” electricity to protect our customers from the fluctuations of regional market prices.
Transmission projects such as MSTI will enable development of Montana’s great renewable resources. Clearly, this will be good for local economies across Montana and help to address environmental concerns including climate change. These new energy sources need a pathway to market, which is the key reason to construct MSTI.
The cost of building MSTI will be recovered from the electric customers who actually use and benefit from the line.
The process of selecting a final route for MSTI or any other transmission line is designed to take into account landowner, environmental, cultural, economic and other concerns. This process is ongoing.

The only way to fully insulate ourselves from the electricity market is to own our own rate-based energy supply. These are energy sources that are dedicated to our Montana customers at cost-of-service rates instead of market rates. NorthWestern’s customers have been tied to and exposed to those markets since Montana Power Company sold its rate-based coal plants and dams (over the objection of its employees), and customers began paying market prices.

Since the law authorizing NorthWestern Energy to once again rate base electricity supply passed in 2007, we’ve locked in about 25 percent of our supply into rate-base. We’re looking right now for cost-effective renewable projects as part of our ongoing effort to replace market-based contracts over time. We also are building Mill Creek Generation Station, which will provide critical “regulation” services (keeping the system in balance) for our customers, so that we won’t have to purchase these services on the market.

As a regional transmission operator, we are required by federal law to build transmission necessary to meet the demand. Currently, there are approximately 5,000 megawatts of new Montana energy sources that want access to our transmission system for the purpose of selling energy to customers. The demand for this energy is largely out-of-state. Most of the new proposed projects are renewable – wind and hydro – as that is the future of energy development. This creates an opportunity for “Made in Montana” environmentally-responsible clean, renewable resources to help energize the nation, just as farmers and ranchers grow crops and raise cattle to help feed the nation.

In addition to MSTI, our “Collector Project” is a set of up to five new 230 kV transmission lines (depending on need) that will connect these new Montana energy sources to the existing transmission system and then to MSTI. Assuming that they are all built, that will eventually add 2,000 MW of new capacity to the system, which is roughly equal to the expected combined capacity of the MSTI and the planned upgrade to the Colstrip Transmission System.

Because the existing transmission system already has more demand than available capacity, new transmission such as MSTI is necessary to relieve the bottleneck that exists on the southwestern end of our system. We have existing reservations of space on MSTI and will be conducting another Open Season that will update those reservations and add additional capacity reservations. To protect the competitive information of these shippers, FERC regulations require that the identities of participants remain confidential.

Documents we have submitted to FERC clearly show that MSTI is being built to serve new generation for export. These documents also clearly show that MSTI’s customers, who directly benefit from the line, rather than the existing customers of NorthWestern Energy will pay costs associated with MSTI.

We’re doing our part to meet the changing needs of our state, region and nation while at the same time protecting existing customers from potential unintended consequences. We remain committed to working with our regulators, customers, communities and responsible community organizations to find workable solutions that enable energy development with the least possible impact on people, animals, and living systems.

Dave Gates is NorthWestern Energy’s VP of Wholesale Operations including the company’s transmission operations headquartered in Butte. Gates lives south of Butte.

NorthWestern Energy Responds to Chronicle’s Opinion

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 15:42:48 GMT

Butte, Mont. — September 1, 2009 — Last week, NorthWestern Energy held the most recent in a series of public meetings to brief the community on our Bozeman infrastructure investment project, progress in determining the cause of the March 5th explosion, and other matters. We did so to share the information we have with the Bozeman community, including the downtown community and others affected by the accident. We also meet regularly with smaller groups and with individuals in the Bozeman community.

We know that the time the investigation has taken has been frustrating for many, especially the victims. In the meantime, we have tried to be helpful, and to be responsible members of the Bozeman community. We have, for example, contributed $50,000 to the Downtown Relief Fund to help victims of the explosion and we made an additional $50,000 contribution to the city’s loan fund to assist the downtown businesses with the site cleanup. Although the clean-up funds weren’t tapped, our contribution will remain available for appropriate uses downtown.

Much of what we have done to date has been in response to suggestions made by the local community, which we sought out in the days immediately after the explosion. We accelerated our annual program of natural gas inspections and safety activity, compressing a yearly cycle into several months. We opened a Main Street office, communicated about safety, and supported a campaign to attract customers downtown. We’ve done what we can to make the process of filing claims as accessible as possible.

Most importantly, we have made a major capital commitment to accelerate our gas system maintenance program in downtown Bozeman to help the downtown area “get back to normal” quicker and avoid the further disruption that would have been caused by ongoing construction that was originally scheduled to take place over the next several years.

We have met with most of the affected property owners. We understand and appreciate their frustrations, particularly those who feel they are caught between a rock and a hard place. They have insurance, but may not have enough to cover all the costs of rebuilding, and they are dealing with a financial system that has tightened its lending practices in light of the recession and recent credit crisis.

We believe, however, that the perception that the affected businesses are “in limbo” because the various insurers are “staring each other down” may not be entirely correct. Most of the businesses that were damaged have insurance and those businesses’ insurers are adjusting their insured’s losses without awaiting the results of the investigation. After a slower start than others and we would have liked, the various parties’ insurers have worked well with each other to investigate the cause of the accident.

We understand but respectfully disagree with the Chronicle’s opinion that NorthWestern should step forward and advance funds before the cause of the explosion is pinpointed and before – or perhaps regardless of whether - any fault is ultimately determined. Our legal system has a method for assigning liability, based on a determination of whether negligence occurred or whether an event took place, for example, because of natural forces. That is what the insurance companies, lawyers and experts are working through.

Accordingly, we respectfully question whether it is fair to place the blame on NorthWestern at this time. As I stated at the briefing last week, I am not an expert in the subject of the investigation, and recognize that as the matter progresses others may communicate different assessments of the evidence than have our experts, different theories, or propose additional tests. As your editorial acknowledged, “there may never be a definitive explanation of what caused the blast.”

It is fair is to follow a careful path of investigation and provide information to the community, while doing our best to answer citizens’ questions. If there are lessons to be learned we will learn them and tell the community about them. If changes need to be made, they will be made and we will also tell the community about those.

NorthWestern Energy will continue to support the downtown Bozeman recovery effort in substantive ways. We must do so while balancing our responsibility to all of our customers for safe and reliable electric and natural gas infrastructure and energy supply. I have personally appreciated the Bozeman community’s willingness to discuss difficult matters frankly and constructively, and to work with us to help us be the best utility we can be for all of our customers.

Bob Rowe
CEO
NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy Plans Groundbreaking Celebration at Mill Creek

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:05:26 GMT

Butte , MT. – August 25, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy will officially break ground Thursday on a $201.8 million natural gas-fired electric generation facility.

The Mill Creek Generating Station, which was first announced in 2008, is expected to hire about 125 workers during construction and 10 workers during operation of the facility.

The groundbreaking will take place at the Mill Creek Generating Station site at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 27. The site is adjacent to NorthWestern Energy’s Mill Creek Substation, which is approximately three miles east of Anaconda, Montana.

The company plans to build the plant in two stages. Three 50 MW turbines are scheduled to be completed by the end of 2010. An additional 50 MW turbine generator will be added later, depending upon the company’s need for additional regulation service.

In attendance at Thursday’s celebration will be NorthWestern Energy President and CEO, Bob Rowe; Governor Brian Schweitzer; representatives from all of the major project construction, equipment suppliers, and engineering groups, including NewMech Companies Inc., Pratt & Whitney Power Systems; and the Shaw Group Inc; along with numerous company representatives and local government officials.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Schedules Community Meeting to Update Bozeman Recovery Effort

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 11:05:12 GMT

Butte, Mont. – August 19, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy has scheduled a community meeting to provide a progress report on several activities related to the ongoing investigation of the March 5 explosion and recovery effort. NorthWestern Energy’s President and CEO Bob Rowe will also update the community on the infrastructure maintenance work going on in the downtown area. The meeting will be held at 10 a.m. on Monday, August 24 at the Bozeman Public Library, 626 E. Main. Refreshments will be served and the public is welcome.

What: Community Update on Bozeman Recovery Effort
When: August 24 at 10 a.m.
Where: Bozeman Public Library

Contact for information: NorthWestern Energy Media Relations: 1-866-622-8081

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(866) 622-8081
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Seeks Additional Renewable Energy Supply in Montana

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 13:46:06 GMT

Butte, Mont. – August 17, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) already has one of the highest percentages of total renewable energy supply of any utility in the Northwest and it is now looking to add even more to its electric generation portfolio.

The company has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to owners or developers of potential projects that meet state standards for renewable energy and/or projects that meet the requirements for Community Renewable Energy Projects (CREP). The company is seeking to add 25-75 megawatts of renewable electric generation to its portfolio. Responses are due by the end of September.

“We’re looking for innovative, cost-effective renewable projects that we can add to our growing portfolio of rate-based electricity resources,” said Dave Gates, Vice President – Wholesale Operations. “In addition to further diversifying our portfolio, the addition of renewable resources favorably positions the utility given pending climate change legislation.”

According to John Hines, Chief Energy Supply Officer, the RFI is open to all qualified renewable energy resources ranging from wind and biomass to landfill gas and hydrogen and everything in between.

While the company prefers to purchase the projects outright, it will consider other options to include equity interests in larger projects and long-term power purchase agreements. It will only consider projects that deliver both renewable energy and the associated renewable energy credits.

The RFI is available on the company’s Web site www.northwestern.com/ as well as that of its consultant Lands Energy Consulting www.landsenergy.com/. Responses to the RFI are due by September 30. Any inquiries or correspondence regarding this RFI should be directed to Lands Energy Consulting:

Tim Castille
360-885-4567
mailto:castille@landsenergy.com

Steve Lewis
206-726-3695
slewis@landsenergy.com

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
mailto:claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Adds Additional Route Options to Jack Rabbit-Big Sky Transmission Line

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 14:41:01 GMT

Butte , Mont. – August 5, 2009 – In response to local residential concerns over a planned upgrade of its transmission line between the Jack Rabbit Substation near Four Corners and Big Sky, NorthWestern Energy is now evaluating alternative routes for the section of line that is currently located on Magenta Road.

While the Magenta Road portion is still under consideration, the company has added three potential alternative routes in the neighborhood located roughly south and west of Four Corners. The proposed route is unchanged along Highway 191 from South of Lower Rainbow Road to the Meadow Village Substation in Big Sky.

“Initial plans called for building the new line entirely parallel to the existing line which will be removed when the new line is placed into service, but we’re sensitive to concerns expressed by residents along Magenta Road about the size of the new line in comparison to their unusually narrow street,” said Dave Gates, Vice President of Wholesale Operations. “At the same time we recognize that moving the line to another location in the neighborhood poses concerns for newly affected residents, so we’ve amended and reposted the public notice to give them the opportunity to fully participate in the process.”

The existing line and the proposed alternative routes are primarily located on public rights-of way under the jurisdiction of Gallatin County. Maps that show details of the alternative routes under consideration are included with the public notice that appears in three local newspapers this week and they are posted on the company’s Web site (click here).

NorthWestern Energy plans to replace the existing 69 kV line with a 161 kV line to provide additional capacity and reliability to serve customers in southwest Montana. This is an area that has experienced significant growth in recent years and that growth is expected to continue over the next 20 years. NorthWestern typically provides at least two distinct and geographically separate routes for most of the communities it serves to provide continued reliability in the event one line is out of service or threatened by wildfire. This line and another line that comes in from the west serve Big Sky and the Gallatin Canyon.

The company plans to build the new line under a statutory exclusion from the Montana Major Facility Siting Act. Under Section 75-20-104(8)(a)(ii), MCA, the line would be excluded from Siting Act coverage if NorthWestern obtains right-of-way agreements or options for a right-of-way from more than 75 percent of the landowners who collectively own more than 75 percent of the property along which the new line is to be located.

If the company is unable to obtain the statutory exclusion, the Siting Act's full public and agency review provisions will apply to the new line. The Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), which administers the Siting Act, will then determine the line location.

Discussions with landowners along the new proposed routes cannot begin until 60 days following publication of the last public notice. The company is plans to host an Open House for residents later this fall to provide information about the project and how to participate in the process.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

BP Wind Energy and NorthWestern Energy Welcome South Dakota Governor Rounds to First Wind Project in Hand County

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 10:30:52 GMT

Project to be largest in world if built out to full capacity

Sioux Falls, S.D. – August 5, 2009 – BP Wind Energy and NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today welcomed South Dakota Governor Michael Rounds at a wind turbine blade signing event to celebrate the move into full construction of the Titan I Wind Farm in Hand County, South Dakota.

Governor Rounds, who was joined by other state and local elected officials, landowners and community leaders said: “Today marks an important step in delivering clean power from a renewable resource, and that’s a credit to innovative thinking and planning by the partners in this project. South Dakota has tremendous potential to become a leader in wind energy development, and utilization of this abundant natural resource harbors the potential of great economic promise for the state.”

Located on a 7500-acre site south of the town of Ree Heights, the Titan I Wind Farm is 100% owned by BP Wind Energy with the energy sold to NorthWestern Energy for use by its customers in South Dakota. Phase I will utilize 10 Clipper C89 wind turbines each with a rated capacity of 2.5 MW. The project will employ up to 175 workers during peak construction and is expected to be in commercial operation in the first quarter of 2010. The balance of the plant contract has been awarded to Mortenson Construction.

“BP’s approach to meeting America’s future energy needs includes oil, natural gas and significant investments in alternative energy such as wind power, as this project demonstrates,” says John Graham, president, BP Wind Energy. “Large wind farms such as Titan are the long-term future of the wind energy business but to deliver on this opportunity, we have to address the transmission challenges and we commend those who are actively working to enable South Dakota to reach its full wind development potential,” adds Graham.

“We take seriously our responsibilities to the environment and to our customers,” says Bob Rowe, president and CEO, NorthWestern Energy. “This wind farm will provide approximately 5% of the total energy supply used by our South Dakota customers. This is good both for the environment and for the local economy. We’re committed to evaluating future options that will provide value to customers while helping to grow this industry for the benefit of all South Dakotans.”

The first phase of the wind farm will tie into an existing above-ground 69 kV NorthWestern Energy transmission line. When in full operation, the Titan I Wind Farm will generate enough carbon-free electricity to power 7500 average American homes.

About BP Wind Energy/BP America
BP Wind Energy is a wholly owned subsidiary of BP, one of the world’s leading energy companies. BP Wind Energy currently has interests in six operating wind farms: the 400 MW Fowler Ridge I project in Indiana; the 300.5 MW Cedar Creek project in Colorado; the 100 MW Flat Ridge I project in Kansas; the 20 MW Edom Hills project in California; and the 150 MW Sherbino I project and the 60 MW Silver Star I project, both in Texas. In the past month, the company has announced it has moved into construction of Phase II of the Fowler Ridge Wind Farm in Indiana which will have a generating capacity of 200 MW and is expected to be in commercial operation in the first quarter of 2010.

BP America is the largest producer of oil and gas in the United States and one of the nation’s largest energy investors. For more information, visit the company’s Web sites at www.bpalternativenergy.com and www.bp.com/us.

Media Inquiries:
Tom Mueller, BP Press Office: 281-366-1236
Tom Glanzer, NorthWestern Energy: 877-410-0154

NorthWestern Corporation Senior Secured Credit Ratings Upgraded

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:05:20 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – August 4, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that Moody’s Investors Service has upgraded NorthWestern’s senior secured debt ratings from Baa1 to A3.

Moody’s cited as a reason for its upgrade an analysis that indicates regulated utilities have defaulted at a lower rate and experienced lower loss given default rates than non-financial, non-utility corporate issuers. Accordingly, Moody's has upgraded the majority of senior secured debt ratings of investment-grade regulated utilities by one notch.

NorthWestern is rated investment grade on all senior secured and unsecured debt with Moody’s, Standard and Poor’s Ratings Services, and Fitch Ratings.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Declares Quarterly Common Stock Dividend of 33.5 Cents Per Share

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 14:44:19 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – July 30, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that its Board of Directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 33.5 cents per share. The dividend is payable on September 30, 2009, to common stockholders of record as of September 15, 2009.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Reports Second Quarter 2009 Results

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 05:00:15 GMT

Reports diluted EPS of $.17/share compared with $.24/share in 2Q 2008
Reduces guidance for 2009 to be $1.75 - $1.85 per fully diluted share from $1.85 - $2.00 per fully diluted share

Sioux Falls, S.D. – July 29, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) reported financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2009.

Significant achievements for the quarter include:

Received approval from the MPSC to construct the proposed 150 MW Mill Creek Generating Station project with a 50% debt and 50% equity capital structure, return on equity at 10.25% and debt at 6.5%; and
Amended and restated the revolving credit facility to increase the amount to $250 million from the current $200 million and to extend the maturity date to June 30, 2012 from November 1, 2009.

Financial Results

Consolidated net income was $6.1 million or $.17 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2009, compared with consolidated net income of $9.5 million or $.24 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2008. Computed diluted shares were 36.3 million at June 30, 2009 compared with 39.4 million diluted shares at June 30, 2008.

Consolidated net income for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was $28.9 million, a decrease of $4.1 million or 12.4%, from $33.0 million in 2008.

“During the second quarter of 2009, we experienced economy-driven weakness in non-firm wholesale transmission revenues in Montana and wholesale power prices in South Dakota when compared with the second quarter of 2008,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO. “We continue to maintain a strong balance sheet. We recently bolstered our liquidity by issuing debt to facilitate execution of our capital projects, specifically including the Mill Creek Generating Station currently under construction. Finally, we are continuing to work to take actions now to focus on discretionary spending to address the declining gross margins.”

Consolidated gross margin for the second quarter of 2009 was $128.9 million compared with $127.2 million for the second quarter of 2008. The improvement in consolidated gross margin was substantially due to the transfer of our interest in Colstrip Unit 4 to Montana utility rate base and represents our return on rate base. This improvement was offset by decreases in electric transmission, electric wholesale and natural gas margins primarily due to lower demand, as a result of economic conditions and mild weather.

Consolidated gross margin for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was $291.8 million compared with $284.0 million in the same period of 2008.

Consolidated operating, general and administrative expenses increased to $60.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 as compared with $53.9 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2008. The increase was due primarily to increased labor and benefit costs due to compensation increases, severance costs, and higher post-retirement benefit costs combining for an increase of approximately $3 million. In addition, the Company experienced approximately $2.9 million higher pension expense in the second quarter of 2009 compared with the second quarter of 2008 based on our funding projections and a revised MPSC pension accounting order issued during the fourth quarter of 2008. The Company also recorded a $3.5 million insurance recovery during the second quarter of 2009 related to previously incurred Montana generation related environmental remediation costs, partially offset by a $1.8 million insurance recovery during the second quarter of 2008.

Consolidated operating, general and administrative expenses were $126.3 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared with $113.9 million in same period of 2008.

Property and other taxes were $18.2 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 as compared with $20.5 million in the second quarter of 2008. For the six months ended June 30, 2009, property and other taxes were $42.5 million compared with $44.2 million in the same period of 2008. The decreases were due to lower assessed property valuations.

Depreciation expense was $22.3 million for the three months ended June 30, 2009 as compared with $21.2 million in the second quarter of 2008. For the six months ended June 30, 2009, depreciation expense was $45.0 million compared with $42.3 million in the same period of 2008. These increases were primarily due to plant additions.

Interest expense for the three months ended June 30, 2009 was $18.0 million, an increase of $2.2 million from the second quarter of 2008. For the six months ended June 30, 2009, interest expense was $33.1 million compared with $31.8 million in the same period of 2008. These increases were primarily related to an increase in long-term debt outstanding.

Income tax expense for the three months ended June 30, 2009 was $3.6 million as compared with $6.0 million in the second quarter of 2008. Our effective tax rate for 2009 was 36.9% as compared with 38.7% for 2008. For the six months ended June 30, 2009, income tax expense was $16.7 million compared with $19.2 million in the same period of 2008.

Results from Regulated Operations

Regulated electric gross margin for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 was $101.8 million, up 10.9%, compared with $91.8 million for the same period of 2008. This improvement is primarily due to the transfer of Colstrip Unit 4 from the unregulated electric segment to the regulated utility, which will help provide rate stability for our customers. This transfer is reflected as an increase in retail revenue and a reduction to cost of sales. Prior to the transfer of Colstrip Unit 4, all of our Montana electric supply costs were based on power purchase agreements, which are passed through to customers at actual cost with no return component. In addition, the unregulated electric margin for the same period of 2008 included an unrealized loss on a forward electric sales contract of $5.2 million. This increase in electric margin was offset in part by lower transmission volumes with less demand to transmit energy for others across our lines, a decrease in wholesale margin due to lower sales at lower average prices, and higher qualifying facility (QF) supply costs based on actual QF pricing and output.

Regulated retail electric volumes for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 totaled 2,298,000 megawatt hours compared with 2,370,000 megawatt hours for the quarter ended June 30, 2008, a 3.0% decrease. The decrease was due to a combination of economic conditions and mild weather partially offset by growth in the number of residential and commercial customers. Wholesale electric volumes were 154,000 megawatt hours for the quarter ended June 30, 2009, an increase from 82,000 megawatt hours for the same period in 2008. The increase was primarily due to the transfer of Colstrip Unit 4 to the regulated utility, partially offset by a decrease in South Dakota wholesale volumes from lower plant availability.

Regulated electric gross margin for the six months ended June 30, 2009 was $215.1 million, up 16.1%, compared with $185.3 million for the same period of 2008 generally for the same reasons as the increase in the second quarter discussed above.

Regulated retail electric volumes for the six months ended June 30, 2009 totaled 4,961,000 megawatt hours compared with 5,005,000 megawatt hours for the six months ended June 30, 2008. Wholesale electric volumes were 397,000 megawatt hours for the six months ended June 30, 2009, an increase from 131,000 megawatt hours for the same period in 2008.

Regulated natural gas gross margin was $28.5 million for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 compared with $30.6 million during the second quarter of 2008. Regulated retail natural gas volumes were 5,417,000 dekatherms for the quarter ended June 30, 2009 compared with 6,055,000 dekatherms for the same period in 2008. The decline in gross margin and volumes is primarily due to warmer weather in all service territories.

Regulated natural gas gross margin was $78.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 compared with $81.0 million during the same period of 2008.

Regulated retail natural gas volumes were 19,287,000 dekatherms for the six months ended June 30, 2009 compared with 20,227,000 dekatherms for the same period in 2008. The decline in gross margin and volumes is primarily due to warmer weather in Montana and Nebraska.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of June 30, 2009, cash and cash equivalents were $23.0 million compared with $11.3 million at Dec. 31, 2008. As of June 30, 2009, our total net liquidity was approximately $269.3 million, compared with $ 86.2 million at Dec. 31, 2008. The increase in liquidity was due primarily to issuance of $250 million of Montana First Mortgage Bonds in March 2009 and an amendment to the unsecured revolving line of credit that increased the availability under that line from $200 million to $250 million.

Cash provided by operating activities totaled $85.4 million for the six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared with $124.6 million during the six months ended June 30, 2008. This decrease in operating cash flows is primarily related to increased pension funding of approximately $41.3 million and a $10.8 million prepayment of a power purchase agreement, offset by lower commodity prices reflected in the change in accounts receivable and accounts payable, as well as decreased cash outflows for natural gas storage injections.

Cash used in investing activities during the six months ended June 30, 2009 increased by approximately $3.5 million as compared with 2008 due to increased property, plant and equipment additions. Capital expenditures for the six months ended June 30, 2009 were $46.9 million as compared with $43.1 million in the same period of 2008.

Cash used in financing activities totaled approximately $27.2 million during the six months ended June 30, 2009 as compared with $70.1 million during the six months ended June 30, 2008. During the first half of 2009, the Company received net proceeds from the issuance of debt of $249.8 million, made net debt repayments of $243.0 million, paid deferred financing costs of $9.9 million and paid dividends on common stock of $24.1 million. During the six months ended June 30, 2008, the Company made net debt repayments of $42.9 million and paid dividends on common stock of $25.7 million.

2009 Earnings Outlook

NorthWestern reduces its earnings outlook for 2009 to be $1.75 - $1.85/fully diluted share from previous guidance of $1.85 - $2.00/fully diluted share.

The major assumptions include, but are not limited to, the following expectations:

Reduced off-system transmission revenues in Montana for the remainder of 2009
2009 net income will increase by approximately $9 million or $.25 per share as a result of the inclusion of our interest in Colstrip Unit 4 in regulated electric rate base;
Pension expense based on an assumed 8% return on plan assets for 2009;
Retail electric volumes will be flat compared with 2008 volumes;
Wholesale electric volumes in South Dakota will decrease due to pricing and volume reductions;
Residential and Commercial natural gas volumes will be relatively flat compared with 2008 volumes;
Fully diluted average shares outstanding of 36.5 million; and
Normal weather in the Company’s electric and natural gas service territories for the rest of 2009.

Company Hosting Investor Conference Call

NorthWestern will host an investor conference call today at 2:30 pm Eastern Time to review its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2009.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading. To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at 4:30 pm Eastern Time today through August 29, 2009, at 800-475-6701, access code 107524.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD—LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, the information under “2009 Earnings Outlook”. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:

potential adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, results of operations and financial condition;
unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments, may reduce revenues or may increase operating costs, each of which would adversely affect our liquidity;
unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs, which may reduce revenues and increase operating costs or may require additional capital expenditures or other increased operating costs; and
adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in the U.S. financial markets and in our service territories.

Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, recent and forthcoming Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Form 8-K and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

NorthWestern to Host Second Quarter 2009 Financial Results Conference Call

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:48:47 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – July 13, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that it will host an investor conference call on Wednesday, July 29, 2009 at 2:30 p.m. Eastern Time to review its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2009. The Company also plans to issue a news release detailing its second quarter 2009 financial results the morning of July 29, 2009 before the market opens.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading. To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at 4:30 p.m. ET on July 29, 2009, through August 29, 2009, at 800-475-6701, access code 107524.

To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Boosts and Extends Corporate Revolving Credit Facility

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:51:50 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – June 30, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today announced that it has amended and restated its corporate revolving credit facility to increase the amount to $250 million from the current $200 million and to extend the maturity date to June 30, 2012 from the existing November 1, 2009.

“This amendment provides NorthWestern with the liquidity necessary to support its growth plan,” said Brian Bird, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer. “The fact that we obtained a three-year extension and increased the availability of the existing facility in this difficult banking environment demonstrates the company’s strong financial profile.”

The banks in the facility include Banc of America Securities LLC (Lead Arranger), JPMorgan Chase Bank, N.A. (Syndication Agent), Union Bank N.A. (Co-Documentation Agent) and U.S. Bank National Association (Co-Documentation Agent), Deutsche Bank, UBS Loan Finance, Bank of Nova Scotia, KeyBank Nat’l Assoc., and Credit Suisse.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Notifies the Billings Area of a Potential Water Hazard on the Yellowstone River

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 30 Jun 2009 16:40:47 GMT

Billings , Mont. – June 30, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy is notifying the public of a potential water hazard south of the Laurel Yellowstone River Bridge. A power line located on an island in the river is down and crews are in the process of installing a new pole and resetting the wires.

Those navigating the Yellowstone River today and tomorrow, should avoid the North Channel area as crews work to repair the line. The line is de-energized; however, it could become a potential hazard to those trying to navigate the affected stretch. The affected area is approximately three to four miles downstream (east) of the Laurel Yellowstone River Bridge, which is located on Highway 312 south of the CHS refinery. The South Channel of the Yellowstone River is clear for watercraft to navigate.

Customers with questions may call the NorthWestern Energy Customer Contact Center at (888) 467-2669.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit the company’s Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Notifies Billings Customers of Maintenance Work

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 11:02:46 GMT

Billings, MT – June 25, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy is installing replacement underground electric cable in the Woodward Way Subdivision in the Lockwood area of Billings. This replacement of aging underground cable is part of our ongoing commitment to providing exceptional service and reliability for all of our electric customers.

Beginning June 29 and continuing through July and August, crews will be accessing utility rights of way along property lines in the residential neighborhoods to install the cable. The project will start with properties on Westgate Drive. The entire cable replacement project is expected to take up to two months and will eventually include cable replacement in backyards of Lockwood property owners on Kingswood, Fleetwood, Brookwood, Noblewood and Tanglewood Drives.

Underground locates will be done in advance of the work. It is important that homeowners do not remove the underground locates on their property. In many cases, the new cable will be installed by boring under the surface to minimize disrupting the landscaping. Customers should experience little or no disruptions to their electric service.

Crews will be clearly identified, but should landowners in the area have any questions about our work, or our access to rights of way, please do not hesitate to call our Customer Contact Center at (888) 467-2669.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866)622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Responds to FERC Orders on Transmission Projects

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 23 Jun 2009 12:02:37 GMT

Butte, Mont. – June 23, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) plans to conduct “Open Seasons” as planned for two major transmission projects following the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) recent action on the company’s petitions.

FERC affirmed its support of the company’s efforts to build new transmission on congested pathways. FERC encouraged the company to develop the Mountain States Transmission Intertie (MSTI Project) on a cost of service basis by requesting appropriate tariff waivers to provide for the flexibility to efficiently and effectively facilitate the project development. FERC also agreed with the company’s proposed pricing for the Collector Project and the general approach for the Collector open season process.

“The FERC Orders are complex and required time to fully sort through all of the details,” said Dave Gates, Vice President – Wholesale Operations. “However, after careful review, we regard the Orders as providing necessary guidance from FERC and supporting the development of both projects. Accordingly, we will continue to develop the projects without delay or interruption.”

In requesting market-based rates for MSTI, NorthWestern Energy followed the approach that FERC has approved for similar projects in the region, including the Montana-Alberta Tie Line and TransCanada’s proposed Chinook project. NorthWestern Energy believed that this approach would provide it with flexibility to meet market conditions and would best insulate its native load customers from the costs and risks of the project. Although FERC denied the company’s request, it provided strong encouragement for continuing with the project using a more traditional approach.

To quote the Order, “ We also recognize the Petitioners’ desire to insulate native load customers from the costs and risks associated with an export-only project…we believe that NWE has ample opportunity to accomplish its objectives and construct a project comparable to the MSTI proposal on a cost-of-service basis by requesting appropriate tariff waivers.” In support of the MSTI Project, FERC further noted “…we acknowledge the need for innovative proposals to develop new transmission projects, especially in regions rich in potential to deliver renewable energy to load centers.”

As to the Collector, FERC approved NorthWestern’s proposal to directly assign the cost of the project to the generators. This has the effect of insulating native load customers from the cost of the project. While FERC deferred ruling on NorthWestern’s request for waivers, FERC specifically found the proposed open season process to be a reasonable means of accommodating a large number of interconnection requests in the queue.

The open seasons for the MSTI and Collector projects will be conducted on a transparent basis in order to ensure fairness and non-discriminatory access. The results of the open seasons will be used to size the projects according to customer demand. The open season process will also ensure that the projects have sufficient contracts with credit-worthy shippers to support financing.
With more than 5,000 megawatts of proposed new electric generation – much of it wind energy - that has sought access to the transmission system in Montana, the company has proposed two major projects – MSTI and the Collector Project - to facilitate development of these projects.

The Collector Project consists of up to five new transmission lines in Montana that would connect new generation, primarily wind farms, to the existing NorthWestern Energy transmission system and to the proposed Mountain States Transmission Intertie (MSTI). Most of the new proposed wind generation that would be served by the collector system would be located in north central, central, south central and eastern Montana.

MSTI is a proposed 500kV transmission line that would run near Townsend, Montana to near Midpoint, Idaho. The project is currently undergoing environmental review with a draft Environmental Impact Statement due in late-2009.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Unveils Hybrid Bucket Truck in Missoula

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 10:01:21 GMT

Butte , Mont. – June 10, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy’s (NYSE: NWE) commitment to environmentally responsible practices extends to its vehicle fleet. The company has added hybrid vehicles to its fleet in recent years and today unveiled its first hybrid bucket truck, which will begin working the streets of Missoula and surrounding communities later this week.

The hybrid technology saves fuel and also allows the truck’s diesel engine to be shut down while crews perform line repair and maintenance work relying on the vehicle’s batteries to operate the aerial lift. Drawing on the battery power eliminates both noise and diesel exhaust.

“This new hybrid bucket truck costs about $45,000 more than a standard truck, but will go about twice the distance before needing to refuel depending on driving and work conditions,” said Ron Anderson, NorthWestern Energy’s manager of fleet and equipment. “It also produces about half the emissions of a conventional vehicle, which is – quite literally – a breath of fresh air for a work truck.”

The 40-foot, 26,000-pound hybrid bucket truck has an aerial lift of 42 feet and replaces an older vehicle that NorthWestern will retire from its companywide fleet of 947 vehicles. The company began adding hybrid service vehicles to its fleet three years ago. It plans to continue replacing service vehicles with hybrids as appropriate and plans to add another hybrid bucket truck to the fleet later this year.

“While this is the first hybrid bucket truck in the fleet,” Anderson said, “we continue to operate our other conventional trucks with safety and environmental responsibility in mind. The crews are mindful of idling trucks only to the extent necessary to do their work safely and we’ve implemented various operational changes over the years to reduce fuel consumption. We are always looking for new approaches to sustainable and cost-effective fleet management practices.”

Media Contact:
Susan Malee
(866) 622-8081
susan.malee@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Addresses Proposed Butte-Silver Bow Ordinance on Underground Electric Transmission Lines

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 08:06:05 GMT

Butte, MT — June 9, 2009 — On Wednesday, June 10, the City and County of Butte-Silver Bow Council of Commissioners will discuss a proposed ordinance requiring that all electric transmission lines be placed underground within the county. Attached is a letter that was sent to the commissioners and the Chief Executive outlining the company's concerns with the proposed ordinance along with a fact sheet on burying high voltage power lines.

NorthWestern Energy Announces Organization Changes

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 09 Jun 2009 07:37:12 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – June 9, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today announced that Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Brian Bird, has assumed the treasurer position vacated by Paul Evans, who is leaving the company to pursue other interests.

Evans will remain in a consultant’s role through mid-August to facilitate the transition. “Paul joined the company during reorganization and has been instrumental in helping it to regain the solid financial foundation that we enjoy today,” said Bird. “We wish Paul and his family all the best.”

With Evans' departure, the company also made changes to the reporting structure with his former team now reporting either to Bird or other appropriate functional leaders in the finance and legal departments.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Annual Natural Gas Inspections Underway Across Montana

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 07:58:15 GMT

Butte , Mont. – June 8, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy’s natural gas distribution and transmission systems are undergoing their annual safety inspections across Montana.

The company owns and operates more than 6,000 miles of natural gas pipelines that transport and deliver natural gas to approximately 179,200 customers in Montana. Federal and state regulations require the company to conduct regular, routine inspections of the facilities as part of the company’s operation, maintenance and safety programs.

Contractors working on behalf of the company are currently conducting annual leak surveys on the distribution systems in each community. Commercial districts are surveyed annually while residential areas are surveyed every four years. Surveyors using equipment that looks similar to a metal detector walk above the pipelines placing the “sniffers” to the ground every few feet. The sensitive equipment alerts the surveyor if it detects even the smallest presence of natural gas in the soil. Servicemen follow up on any positive readings to find the source and to make any fixes that may be necessary.

In addition, the company has individuals conducting pipe-to-soil surveys that test steel pipes for adequate protection. This also involves an individual walking through residential areas and occasionally entering yards to conduct field tests and measurements. The pipe-to-soil survey is part of the company’s cathodic protection program that is designed to protect underground steel pipes from corrosion.

On the transmission system, contractors and employees are patrolling the pipelines looking for anything out of the ordinary that might suggest a leak, damage, or potential problem such as a washout.

In all cases, NorthWestern Energy employees and contractors drive vehicles and wear clothing that identify them as official company representatives and carry some form of company identification (i.e. business card, access key card, etc.). However, please alert NorthWestern Energy or law enforcement immediately if you witness suspicious individuals or activities near or around our facilities.

As a reminder, customers are responsible for the maintenance of gas pipes that lead from the gas meter to various locations or appliances on the property such as a detached garage or barbeque grill. If you find anything out of the ordinary on your property, such as bubbling ponds or dead/discolored vegetation in an otherwise green area near a location of an underground pipe, you should contact a qualified service technician to perform any needed repairs.

If you smell natural gas, please notify NorthWestern Energy or call 911. From a safe location call NorthWestern Energy’s emergency number: (800) 467-2427 Calls can be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week – we will respond promptly – at no charge.

Do NOT attempt to locate the leak.
Do NOT use any phone (even your cell phone) within the house or building.
Do NOT turn on or off any battery-powered, rechargeable or electrical device, including telephones, garage door openers, televisions, computers or any electrical appliance that could create a spark.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:b
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Annual Natural Gas Inspections Underway Across South Dakota and Nebraska

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 07:44:40 GMT

Huron, SD – June 8, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy’s natural gas distribution and transmission systems are undergoing their annual safety inspections across South Dakota and Nebraska.

The company owns and operates more than 2,200 miles of natural gas pipelines that deliver natural gas to approximately 84,500 customers in South Dakota and Nebraska. Federal and state regulations require the company to conduct regular, routine inspections of the facilities as part of the company’s operation, maintenance and safety programs.

Employees are currently conducting annual leak surveys on the distribution systems in each community. Commercial districts are surveyed annually, while residential areas are surveyed every four years. Surveyors using equipment that looks similar to a metal detector walk above the pipelines placing the “sniffers” to the ground every few feet. The sensitive equipment alerts the surveyor if it detects even the smallest presence of natural gas in the soil. Servicemen follow up on any positive readings to find the source and to make make any fixes that may be necessary.

In addition, employees are conducting pipe-to-soil surveys that test steel pipes for potential corrosion. This also involves an individual walking through residential areas and occasionally entering yards to conduct field tests and measurements. The pipe-to-soil survey is part of the company’s cathodic protection program that is designed to protect underground steel pipes from corrosion.

In all cases, NorthWestern Energy employees drive vehicles and wear clothing that identify them as official company representatives and carry some form of company identification (i.e., business card, access key card, etc.). However, please alert NorthWestern Energy or law enforcement immediately if you witness suspicious individuals or activities near or around our facilities.

As a reminder, customers are responsible for the maintenance of gas pipes that lead from the gas meter to various locations or appliances on the property such as a detached garage or barbeque grill. If you find anything out of the ordinary on your property, such as bubbling ponds or dead/discolored vegetation in an otherwise green area near a location of an underground pipe, you should contact a qualified service technician to perform any needed repairs.

If you smell natural gas, please notify NorthWestern Energy or call 911. From a safe location call NorthWestern Energy’s emergency number: (800) 245-6977. Calls can be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week – we will respond promptly – at no charge.

Do NOT attempt to locate the leak.
Do NOT use any phone (even your cell phone) within the house or building.
Do NOT turn on or off any battery-powered, rechargeable or electrical device, including telephones, garage door openers, televisions, computers or any electrical appliance that could create a spark.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy to Send Scratch and Sniff Odorant Cards as Customer Safety Reminder

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 27 May 2009 07:28:43 GMT

Huron, S.D./Butte, Mont. – May 27, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy will include scratch and sniff cards in June monthly bills to remind customers of the distinctive smell that is used to help identify natural gas leaks. To help customers detect natural gas-like leaks more easily, NorthWestern adds mercaptan, a chemical odorant, which gives natural gas its distinctive, sulfur-like aroma. Natural gas itself has no odor.

If people smell natural gas inside or outside of a house or building, they should leave the premises immediately and call the company’s 24-hour emergency service line from a neighbor’s house or other safe location, toll-free, at (888) 467-2427 in Montana and (800) 245-6977 in South Dakota and Nebraska or 911. Calls can be made 24 hours a day, seven days a week – NorthWestern will respond promptly – at no charge.

“We are reminding our customers of this important safety measure as part of our long-standing commitment to providing them safe, reliable natural gas service,” explained Bob Rowe, President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy.

In case of a natural gas leak or other emergency situation, NorthWestern Energy urges that customers:

Do NOT attempt to locate the leak.
Do NOT use any phone (even your cell phone) within the house or building.
Do NOT turn on or off the lights or any battery-powered, rechargeable or electrical device, including telephones, garage door openers, televisions, computers or any electrical appliance that could create a spark.

From a safe distance, watch for the NorthWestern truck so you can let the service representative into your home or building.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch (Mont.)
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Tom Glanzer (S.D., Neb.)
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

MPSC Issues Final Order Approving NorthWestern's Mill Creek Generating Station

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 19 May 2009 14:50:47 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D./Butte, Mont. – May 19, 2009 – The Montana Public Service Commission (MPSC) has formally approved the Company’s construction of the Mill Creek Generating Station (MCGS) near Anaconda, Montana.

“We appreciate the commission’s thoughtful and thorough deliberation. This is our first new electric generating resource in Montana, and is a key step towards our vision of being a fully integrated, regulated utility. It will enable us to integrate additional wind and other resources on the system,” said Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy’s President and CEO.

The 150 megawatt Mill Creek Generating Station is intended to provide regulating resources to balance the company’s energy supply and transmission system in Montana to maintain reliability and enable additional wind power to be integrated onto the network to meet its current renewable energy portfolio needs. The facility is designed to enable increasing or decreasing energy production within seconds to follow load fluctuations on the system.

“This plant will help us achieve many of the objectives that are important to us and to our customers including energy supply and transmission stability and reliability as we integrate renewable energy on to our system. We also intend to work with local residents throughout the construction process to ensure that we continue to be a good neighbor,” Rowe added.

Among other actions, the commissioners determined the $81 million cost of the turbines was prudent, approved the plant’s return on equity at 10.25 percent and debt at 6.5 percent with a 50/50 capital structure and accepted the plant’s carbon offset plan as filed. The plant is estimated to cost approximately $201 million; the remainder of the costs will be submitted to the MPSC for review and approval once the plant is complete.

The company is in the process of obtaining bids and contracts from vendors and will commence construction this fall. The plant is scheduled to go into operation by December 31, 2010.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Names Rick Hoffman as Huron Area Manager

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 08 May 2009 09:43:29 GMT

Huron, S.D. – May 8, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy announced today that Huron native Rick Hoffman has rejoined the company as Area Manager in Huron, South Dakota. Hoffman will be responsible for the day-to-day oversight of the company’s natural gas and electric retail operations in the Huron Area.

Hoffman has 36 years of experience in the utility industry including 27 years with NorthWestern in various roles including Area Manager of the Mitchell Area.

“Rick’s safety and utility operating experience, as well as his ability to work with people, will contribute to successful leadership for NorthWestern Energy in the Huron Area,” said Mike Sydow – General Manager Retail Operations for South Dakota and Nebraska.

“I am looking forward to working with the Huron community leadership in a progressive aspect where NorthWestern Energy and our community can assist each other in development and economic excellence,” said Hoffman. “It has also been a very rewarding homecoming of sorts to work alongside NorthWestern personnel that I have worked with in the past; it makes this transition very smooth on the company operations, and on me.”

A graduate of Huron High School and Huron University, Hoffman is a certified loss control professional regarding safety and risk management. His professional affiliations include the Quad States Instructors Group and the National Utility Training and Safety Educational Association.

Hoffman and his wife Wanda have two grown children. He is very active in the local community, and serves on the Advisory Board for Mitchell Technical Institute’s Electrical Construction and Maintenance Division.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

MPSC Gives Nod of Approval to Mill Creek Generating Station

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 04 May 2009 18:09:37 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – May 4, 2009 – The Montana Public Service Commission (MPSC) voted four to one today in favor of NorthWestern Energy’s application for approval to construct the Mill Creek Generating Station (MCGS) near Anaconda, Montana. A final order on the request is expected by May 22.

After considerable discussion on the proposed construction costs of the plant, the MPSC commissioners also voted unanimously that the $81 million for the turbines were prudent. The commission will determine the prudency of the other MCGS costs at a later time. Among other actions, the commissioners approved the plant’s return on equity at 10.25 percent and debt at 6.5 percent with a 50/50 capital structure and accepted the plant’s carbon offset plan as filed.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Thank You, Butte!

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 17:02:47 GMT

Guest Opinion
Bob Rowe, President and CEO, NorthWestern Energy

Butte, MT — April 27, 2009 — Last week, NorthWestern Energy celebrated its history in Butte. We could not have been prouder! With warm temperatures, blue skies, and fresh snow on the mountains, even the weather was on its best behavior – at least for a few days.

Our annual Shareholders’ Meeting was held in Butte for the first time. Shareholders’ meetings are serious and formal affairs, as they should be, but they are also opportunities to bring shareholders, employees and customers together. This is why we decided to hold the meeting in our largest employee location within our service territory. Next year we’ll do the same thing in South Dakota.

As importantly, our Board of Directors spent two days in Butte, working hard, meeting with our employees and retirees, and getting to know Butte’s community leaders, citizens and history. Several of our Board members also attended a legislative reception in Helena, or traveled to meet with our employees in Cut Bank, Havre and Lewistown.

We have a hard working, national-caliber Board of Directors, with experience in energy, finance, human resources and corporate governance. Our two newest members, Dorothy Bradley and Dana Dykhouse, bring first-hand experience in Montana and South Dakota with the economic development, public policy, and other opportunities and challenges that face our communities.

Montana Tech and Chancellor Gilmore hosted our Board meeting, Shareholders’ meeting, and a community discussion with our Board and executive team. From there, we marched up Park Avenue to the Museum of Fine Arts Butte, for a reception honoring our retirees and employees. From the MOFAB, we crossed the street to the Motherlode, for a special showing of Butte America, Pam Robert’s remarkable history of the workers who made Butte the Richest Hill on Earth. Former Congressman Pat William’s introduction, including his own story of growing up in Butte, helped connect history to today’s events. Our Board members ended the day eating pasties at the Copper King Mansion.

Many of our employees had family who worked in the underground mines (my grandfather worked underground in the Anselmo until a ripe old age), and Butte America was filled for them with familiar faces and important stories. Although Butte America is about mining and Anaconda, not energy, there are important connections and key distinctions. Butte became “the richest hill” based mainly on copper to transmit electricity. The Montana Power Company’s fortunes rose and fell in significant part based on Anaconda’s business plans. “The Company” (Anaconda) was “the Power’s” largest customer. When mining shut down, it was a tough blow for the Montana Power Company, as well as for Butte and for Montana.

I was struck by some important differences between then and now as well. NorthWestern Energy honors and respects its employees – both union and nonunion. We try to do our work, providing energy infrastructure and service, in an environmentally responsible way. Our business is focused on providing value to our customers, both retail and wholesale, in our service territory. We serve 349 communities in Montana, Nebraska and South Dakota. Our Montana employees live in 53 communities across our Montana territory.

Butte was at technology’s cutting edge in the early years of the Twentieth Century providing electricity to the mines, natural gas to the community, and copper to the world. With its academic base and technology firms, including NorthWestern Energy, we are prepared to contribute in the Twenty-first Century as well, in key areas such as renewable resources, and helping the nation address its energy and environmental challenges.

In Butte, we have over 500 employees, in locations from uptown to the flats making it the largest employee presence anywhere in the company. Our largest network operation center and customer service center are here. Retail gas and electric service, energy supply, transmission, and other key aspects of operational support are based in our uptown office. Our Butte district office is responsible for gas and electric delivery to much of southwest Montana. Our Butte-Silver Bow payroll is $37 million (of an $80 million total Montana payroll). Our local tax payments are $6.8 million (of $77 million in Montana taxes). As importantly, our employees are active contributors to most every major civic project in the area.

I’m proud of both our Butte history and our current role in this extraordinary community. It was an honor last week to be able to share and celebrate NorthWestern Energy’s place in Butte, and especially our great people. Thanks Butte!

NorthWestern Energy Opens Recovery Office in Downtown Bozeman

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 15:46:58 GMT

Butte, Mont. – April 23, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy today announced that is opening a temporary office in Downtown Bozeman to provide local business owners and residents with easy access to information related to the recovery effort.

The company is leasing the space located at 308 Main Street to provide the public with information about the company’s natural gas system including system integrity and safety programs. It also will serve as a meeting place for people actively engaged in the recovery process for the next several months.

“We’re opening this temporary office in response to comments that we’ve received from Downtown business owners and local residents for ongoing information and regular contact,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO. “This step is part of a broader effort to inform, educate and demonstrate our level of commitment to our customers and communities.”

NorthWestern Energy has been working with local residents and business owners to understand their questions and concerns following the March 5 explosion. The company has developed, through more than four-dozen interviews, a comprehensive response plan to restore confidence in the company’s natural gas system. The plan includes a public outreach effort to inform and educate customers about the company’s natural gas system.

“We continue to investigate the incident and expect that it will take between three to six months to gather the necessary facts and analyze the pipe, soil, weather conditions, and customer piping in order to determine what caused the fracture at a coupling in a two inch service line,” added Rowe.

NorthWestern Energy has published a website specific to the recovery effort at http://www.bozemanrecovery.com/ and updates the site regularly as information is available. The Downtown Bozeman office is specific to the recovery effort and is not a customer payment location. The office is expected to open to the public on May 1.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Community Relations Contact:
Mel Kotur (406) 582-4637
melvin.kotur@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Reports First Quarter 2009 Results

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 07:00:00 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – Apr. 23, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) reported financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2009.

Highlights for the quarter include:

Reports net income of $22.8 million, or $.63/diluted share, compared with net income of $23.5 million in 1Q 2008, or $.59/diluted share;

The increase in EPS was due primarily to the share buy back concluded in the third quarter of 2008.

Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s) upgraded the senior secured to Baa1 from Baa2 and unsecured credit ratings to Baa2 from Baa3;
Issued $250 million of First Mortgage Bonds at 6.34% due in 2019;

As of March 31, 2009, total net liquidity was approximately $260.0 million, including $83.2 million of cash and $176.8 million of revolving credit facility availability.

Total net liquidity increased to approximately $260 million as of March 31, 2009;
Montana Public Service Commission (MPSC) conducted hearings related to our proposed Mill Creek Generation Station and a decision is expected in the second quarter of 2009;
Placed our ownership interest in Colstrip Unit 4 into utility rate base at a value of $407 million, pursuant to a 2008 MPSC order; and
Gross Margin increased to $162.9 million for the first quarter of 2009 compared with $156.9 million for the same period of 2008.

First Quarter Financial Results

Consolidated net income was $22.8 million or $.63 per diluted share for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, compared with consolidated net income of $23.5 million or $.59 per diluted share for the quarter ended March 31, 2008. Computed diluted shares were 36.3 million at March 31, 2009 compared with 39.4 million diluted shares at March 31, 2008. The decrease in the number of computed diluted shares is due to a share buyback conducted in the third quarter of 2008.

“During the first quarter of 2009, our gross margin, electric volumes and our customer counts all improved when compared with the first quarter of 2008,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO. “Also, indicative of our continued improving financial condition and the fact that we have essentially completed our goal of exiting all non-regulated business activities, Moody’s upgraded our debt in January 2009.”

Consolidated gross margin for the first quarter of 2009 was $162.9 million compared with $156.9 million for the first quarter of 2008. The improvement in consolidated gross margin was primarily due to the transfer of our interest in Colstrip Unit 4 to Montana utility rate base and represents our return on rate base. Gross Margin (Revenues less Cost of Sales) is a non-GAAP financial measure due to the exclusion of depreciation from the measure. The presentation of Gross Margin is intended to supplement investors’ understanding of our operating performance. Our Gross Margin measure may not be comparable to other companies’ Gross Margin measure.

Consolidated operating, general and administrative expenses increased to $65.4 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 as compared with $60.1 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2008. The increase was due primarily to increased insurance reserves, higher pension expense related to our Montana plan, and increased labor and benefit costs due to a combination of compensation increases and severance costs.

Property and other taxes were $24.3 million for the three months ended March 31, 2009 as compared with $23.6 million in the first quarter of 2008. The increase was due to higher estimated property valuations.

Depreciation expense was $22.7 million for the three months ended March 31, 2009 as compared with $21.1 million in the first quarter of 2008. This increase was primarily due to 2008 plant additions.

Interest expense for the three months ended March 31, 2009 was $15.1 million, a decrease of $1.0 million, or 6.2%, from the first quarter of 2008. This decrease was primarily related to lower interest rates on our variable rate debt.

Income tax expense for the three months ended March 31, 2009 was $13.1 million as compared with $13.2 million in the first quarter of 2008. Our effective tax rate for 2009 was 36.4% as compared with 36.0% for 2008.

Results from Operations

Regulated electric gross margin for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 was $113.2 million, up 20.9%, compared with $93.6 million for the same period of 2008. This improvement is primarily due to the transfer of Colstrip Unit 4 to the regulated utility, which is reflected as an increase in retail revenue and a reduction to cost of sales. Prior to the transfer of Colstrip Unit 4, its results were reflected in the unregulated electric segment through December 31, 2008,

Regulated retail electric volumes for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 totaled 2,663,000 megawatt hours compared with 2,634,000 megawatt hours for the quarter ended 2008, a 1.1% increase. The increase was due primarily to residential and commercial customer growth. Wholesale electric volumes were 243,000 megawatt hours for the quarter ended March 31, 2009, an increase from 49,000 megawatt hours for the same period in 2008. The increase was primarily due to the transfer of Colstrip Unit 4 to the regulated utility from the unregulated electric segment.

Regulated natural gas gross margin was $49.9 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 compared with $50.3 million during the first quarter of 2008. Regulated retail natural gas volumes were 13,870,000 dekatherms for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 compared with 14,172,000 dekatherms for the same period in 2008. The decline in gross margin and volumes is primarily due to warmer winter weather in Montana and Nebraska. Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of March 31, 2009, cash and cash equivalents were $83.2 million compared with $11.3 million at Dec. 31, 2008. The Company had $176.8 million available from credit facilities at March 31, 2009 compared with $74.9 million at Dec. 31, 2008. The increase in credit revolver availability was due primarily to issuance of $250 million of Montana First Mortgage Bonds in March 2009. The proceeds were used to redeem the $100 million term loan held by Colstrip Lease Holdings LLC and repay outstanding borrowings on the credit facility.

Cash provided by operating activities totaled $65.1 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2009, compared with $78.0 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2008. This decrease in operating cash flows is primarily related to increased pension funding of approximately $21.3 million, offset by improvements associated with the timing of energy supply costs collections in the first quarter of 2009 as compared with 2008.

The Company used $18.2 million for investment activities during the quarter ended March 31, 2009 compared with $14.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2008. Capital expenditures for the quarter ended March 31, 2009 were $18.5 million as compared with $14.0 million in 2008.

The Company’s financing activities provided $25.0 million during the quarter ended March 31, 2009 compared with financing activities using $43.0 million for the quarter ended March 31, 2008. During the first quarter of 2009 the Company issued debt of $250 million, made debt repayments of $211.3 million, and paid dividends on common stock of $12.0 million. During the first quarter of 2008, we made debt repayments of $30.0 million and paid dividends on common stock of $12.9 million.

Dividend

NorthWestern’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 33.5 cents per share, payable on June 30, 2009, to common shareholders of record as of June 15, 2009.

2009 Earnings Outlook

NorthWestern reaffirms its earnings for 2009 to be $1.85 - $2.00/fully diluted share.

The major assumptions include, but are not limited to, the following expectations:

2009 net income will increase by approximately $9 million or $.25 per share as a result of the inclusion of our interest in Colstrip Unit 4 in regulated electric rate base;
Pension expense is estimated to be flat with the 2008 pension expense;
Planned insurance recoveries will offset our Q1 insurance reserve expense increase;
Retail electric volumes will be flat compared to 2008 volumes;
Wholesale electric volumes in South Dakota will decrease due to a planned outage in 2009;
Residential and commercial natural gas volumes will be relatively flat compared with 2008 volumes;
Fully diluted average shares outstanding of 36.5 million; and
Normal weather is assumed in the Company’s electric and natural gas service territories for the rest of 2009.

Results of Annual Shareholder Meeting

At its 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders held yesterday, NorthWestern’s stockholders elected E. Linn Draper, Jr., Stephen P. Adik, Dorothy M. Bradley, Dana J. Dykhouse, Julia L. Johnson, Philip L. Maslowe, D. Louis Peoples and Robert C. Rowe to a one-year term on the Board.

Stockholders approved a proposal to create the NorthWestern Energy Employee Stock Purchase Plan, or ESPP. The ESPP is a broad-based plan that allows eligible employees to purchase shares of our common stock at a discount (to be determined in accordance with the terms of the ESPP, but not more than 15 percent) to the average high and low price on the date of the purchase. The number of common shares available for purchase under the ESPP will be 500,000 shares.

Stockholders also ratified Deloitte & Touche, LLP as the company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2009.

Company Hosting Investor Conference Call

NorthWestern will host an investor conference call today at 11:00 am Eastern Time to review its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2009.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading. To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at noon today through May 22, 2009, at 800-475-6701, access code 996081.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD—LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, the information under “2009 Earnings Outlook”. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:

potential adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, results of operations and financial condition;
unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments, may reduce revenues or may increase operating costs, each of which would adversely affect our liquidity;
unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs, which may reduce revenues and increase operating costs or may require additional capital expenditures or other increased operating costs; and
adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in the U.S. financial markets and in our service territories.

# # #

NorthWestern Energy Reminds Customers of Programs and Services for Earth Day

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 15:19:02 GMT

Butte , Mont. – April 20, 2009 – In honor of Earth Day, NorthWestern Energy is reminding its Montana customers of the variety of programs and services that encourage Earth-friendly energy practices including a new special offer for residential electric customers, the Earth Day Lighting Coupon.

“In less than a minute, people can change out a high use incandescent bulb to a compact fluorescent light bulb (CFL) and save energy this Earth Day,” said Bill Thomas, Manager of Regulatory Support Services.

“The coupon has been mailed to all residential electric customers and is now showing up in mail boxes around Montana. The coupon enables customers to save $2 off the price of each CFL purchased at participating retailers.” The coupon is valid from April 22 through June 14, 2009.

CFLs use one-quarter of the electricity of a traditional bulb and last up to ten times longer. By shopping for CFLs with the 4L’s – Label, Light, Location, and Less Energy, customers can choose the right CFL for the right location and immediately start saving energy.

In addition to the CFL promotion, NorthWestern Energy provides rebates for qualifying insulation improvements, ENERGY STAR programmable thermostats, and energy efficient heating equipment and improvements for its home-heating customers. Rebates are also offered when replacing a hot water tank with a high efficiency unit. Residential customers heating their homes or domestic hot water with Northwestern Energy electricity may be eligible for incentives to switch to natural gas. Rebates for lighting efficiency improvements and premium efficiency motor purchases are available to commercial electric customers. The custom incentives are offered for site-specific, cost-effective energy savings are now available for both electric and natural gas measures in new or existing commercial facilities.

Customers building new homes are encouraged to work with a builder who will build a Northwest ENERGY STAR certified home. These homes meet strict standards to be more efficient and are tested for efficiency and comfort. Visit www.northwestenergystar.com for features and a listing of Montana builders who are trained as Northwest ENERGY STAR builders.

After reducing the energy footprint through efficiency and conservation measures, renewable energy options provide other paths to pursue. NorthWestern Energy offers incentives to qualifying photovoltaic systems that maximize the use of the sun and small-scale wind projects through its Renewable Generation Programs. If installing a renewable system is not a fit, the E+ Green Power program allows customers to offset their electric usage with the environmental benefits of renewable energy generated in the Northwest for as little as $2 a month.

“Every day is Earth Day and NorthWestern Energy’s Efficiency Plus, or E+ Programs, provide many opportunities for our customers who are looking to take action,” said Thomas.

NorthWestern Energy is participating in the 2009 Energy Conservation Fair in the Capitol Rotunda from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Earth Day, April 22. The event is sponsored by the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. NorthWestern Energy will have information about its energy efficiency and renewable generation programs at the event.

Visit www.northwesternenergy.com for details and qualifications on any of the above-mentioned programs or call (888) 467-2669. NorthWestern Energy’s E+ Programs are funded through supply rates and the Universal System Benefits Charge (USBC) paid by NorthWestern Energy’s Montana customers and thus, available only to our customers in Montana.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern to Host First Quarter 2009 Financial Results Conference Call

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 10 Apr 2009 08:17:02 GMT

NorthWestern to Hold Annual Stockholders Meeting

Sioux Falls, S.D. – April 10, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that it will host an investor conference call on Thursday, April 23, 2009 at 11:00 a.m. Eastern Time to review its financial results for the quarter ended March 31, 2009. The Company also plans to issue a news release detailing its first quarter 2009 financial results the morning of April 23 before the market opens.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading. To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at noon on April 23, 2009, through May 22, 2009, at 800-475-6701, access code 996081.

Annual Stockholders Meeting to be Held on April 22

NorthWestern will hold its annual stockholders meeting on Wednesday, April 22, 2009, at 2:00 p.m. Mountain Time at the Montana Tech Student Union Building, 1300 West Park Street, Butte, Montana.

The annual stockholders meeting will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading.

To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

The EIS Process is Working

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:21:17 GMT

Guest Opinion
Dave Gates — Vice President, Wholesage Operations

NorthWestern Energy is proposing to build a 500kV transmission line from Townsend to Midpoint, Idaho. We’ve been working on this project for a few years now and have held more than 60 public meetings and open houses in communities that may be impacted by proposed line, including here in Butte.

The Mountain States Transmission Intertie (MSTI) is intended to carry power generated in Montana – mostly from proposed large wind farms – to markets around the West that want that power to meet their renewable energy needs. It is not going to be part of our Montana utility rates– therefore it is not a cost that will be borne by our retail Montana customers.

As a regional transmission operator in an interconnected grid, we are required by the federal government to provide open, non-discriminatory access to all customers and we’re obligated to build transmission to meet the changing needs of our region.

Electrical grid “modernization” is one of the Obama Administration’s highest priorities. Just as the existing grid was designed to meet the needs of the past century, MSTI and our other transmission projects are engineered to meet the needs of this century.

Montana, thanks to its abundance of natural resources and open spaces, has always provided needed commodities to the rest of the country and to the world. We are proud exporters of copper, gold, beef, wheat, and energy in all of its various forms. It’s the fuel of our economic engine and the production and export of renewable energy is another viable and important addition to our economy.

NorthWestern currently pays approximately $8 million in property taxes to Butte Silver Bow (BSB) – this line is expected to add as much as another $2 million depending on how much of it is built within the county and up to $4.8 million in new property tax revenue to Deer Lodge County by building through BSB to Mill Creek.

MSTI is currently in the siting phase, which is a federal and state governmental review process that involves a significant amount of public input for the purpose of determining the route with the least amount of environmental impacts. The process requires NorthWestern to choose a preferred route and two alternative routes and there has never been a situation when the preferred route is chosen, in its entirety, as the final route. The proposed routes all have existing transmission lines within the corridor.

Opposition to major projects such as this is inevitable and understandable – there will never be a route that satisfies everyone. The Major Facility Siting Act (MFSA), the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) and the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) – all of which have requirements that must be fulfilled within the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process recognize that fact. The process removes the human emotional component from the equation and focuses on facts, data and science.

Health concerns are evaluated as part of the EIS process as are impacts to all aspects of the environment including water, air, livestock, economy, wildlife, land use, cultural and socioeconomic. Electromagnetic fields (EMF’s) concerns are always raised in opposition to power lines. We, as do many other utilities, support further research in this field and, to date, the scientific evidence has never proven health risks associated with EMFs emitted by high-voltage power lines.

Much of the current research is looking at effects of EMFs in daily life since all electrical appliances emit EMFs often in much greater concentration that what you’ll find at the edge of a utility right of way. Montana is one of the few states that has regulations requiring utilities like NorthWestern to meet certain EMF levels on and near a power line right of way. Our high voltage lines are always engineered to fall within these regulations and MSTI will be no exception.

Currently, the Montana Department of Environmental Quality and Bureau of Land Management are reviewing all of the data and working with an independent 3rd party contractor, PBS&J, on a draft Environmental Impact Statement. This draft EIS is expected to be completed by the end of the year at which time it will go through another public process to gather input on the proposed final route. The route is subject to change until the final EIS is published next year.

We encourage public participation in this process because that is how the best route is ultimately chosen. To learn more about the project visit www.msti500kV.com.

Dave Gates is the NorthWestern Energy’s VP of Wholesale Operations including the company’s transmission operations headquartered in Butte. Gates lives South of Butte.

NorthWestern Energy to Conduct Maintenance on 500kV Colstrip Transmission System

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 09:59:26 GMT

Butte , Mont. – April 3, 2009 – Beginning April 6, NorthWestern Energy crews begin the routine annual maintenance cycle on the 500kV Colstrip Transmission System. This year’s work will include the replacement of conductor spacers, which are brackets that keep the lines from inadvertently making contact, on the spans between Broadview and Colstrip, Montana.

Landowners and residents in the area may notice men and equipment on the towers and traveling the lines in spacer carts. NorthWestern Energy vehicles and equipment, as well as clearly marked contractor vehicles, will be accessing rights of way throughout this period. Helicopters will also be working in the area delivering material and providing support to the crews working on the towers and lines. The work is done on live lines during daylight hours Monday through Friday and occasionally on Saturday, weather permitting, through May 9.

The company makes every effort to control the spread of noxious weeds by washing all vehicles and equipment daily prior to entering the right of way. Upon completion of the work, the right of way technicians inspect the area and apply an herbicide to further minimize the potential spread of seeds.

Landowners with questions or concerns about right of way access should contact Wayne Clark 406-860-1757.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Prices First Mortgage Bond Offering

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 14:49:04 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – March 23, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced it priced the sale of $250,000,000 aggregate principal amount of 6.34% First Mortgage Bonds (the “Bonds”) due April 1, 2019.

The entire net proceeds from this offering will be used to (i) repay the outstanding balance of the Colstrip Lease Holdings, LLC (an indirect, wholly-owned subsidiary of the Company) in the principal amount of $100,000,000 plus accrued interest through the date of repayment, (ii) repay the outstanding balance on the Company’s revolver, (iii) pay a portion of the costs of the proposed Mill Creek generation project (if approved) and/or (iv) fund future capital expenditures.

Pending the use of proceeds as described above, the Company may invest the net proceeds from the offering in short‑term marketable securities.

The Bonds will pay interest semiannually in arrears at a rate of 6.340% per year. Interest is payable on April 1 and October 1 of each year, beginning on October 1, 2009.

The Bonds are expected to be rated by Standard & Poor’s Rating Services, Moody’s, and Fitch Ratings as A-, Baa1, and BBB+, respectively. All three ratings are investment grade for the Bonds.

For more information on NorthWestern Energy, please visit our Website at www.northwesternenergy.com.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 656,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Launches New Web Site to Update Bozeman Residents on Recovery Efforts and to Help Promote Downtown Economy

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 20 Mar 2009 17:31:26 GMT

Butte, MT – March 20, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy has launched a new Web site to provide information to Bozeman residents about the recovery efforts following the March 5 explosion in Downtown Bozeman.

www.bozemanrecovery.com includes past and present press releases, an open letter to the community, answers to frequently asked questions and will be where the company provides ongoing updates as the investigation, cleanup and restoration efforts continue. It also provides residents and other concerned citizens with the ability to ask questions or provide comments to the company.

“We’ve never created a Web site dedicated to providing information about a single event before, but this is a unique situation,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy. “This site provides people all over the country with a single point of contact to get information about what we’re doing to help the community recover from this tragic event.”

The site also includes information about NorthWestern’s natural gas safety programs and procedures to reassure residents of the work we do to maintain a safe and reliable distribution system. The company is in the process of gathering input and feedback from downtown business owners to learn how they think the company can participate in the recovery process.

“The local, state and national economy was the primary concern before March 5 and we share the concern voiced by nearly everyone we’ve talked to about the additional impact this event may have on the local economy,” added Rowe. “More than anything we want to assure people that Downtown Bozeman is a safe and enjoyable place to shop, dine and relax. Downtown Bozeman is most definitely open for business.”

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Dorothy M. Bradley to Stand for Election at NorthWestern Energy’s 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 19 Mar 2009 14:54:16 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – March 19, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today announced that Dorothy M. Bradley will stand for election to the Board of Directors at the Company’s 2009 Annual Meeting of Stockholders to be held on April 22, 2009, in Butte, Mont. Bradley resides in Clyde Park, Mont., and will fill the vacancy on the Board left by Montana resident Jon Fossel, who chose not to stand for re-election at this year’s annual meeting.

According to NorthWestern President and CEO Bob Rowe, “Dorothy’s strong background in public policy and her lifelong commitment to Montana and its people will strengthen NorthWestern’s ability to serve Montana, and indeed all of our stakeholders.”

“My selection to serve on the Board of NorthWestern Energy is an immense honor, opportunity, and responsibility,” said Bradley. “At no other time have energy and utility issues been so critical for Montana and the nation. NorthWestern is working in new ways to reach out to its Montana stakeholders, to hear from them, and to be a respected part of the Montana family. I look forward to joining this worthy effort alongside CEO Bob Rowe, a long-respected Montana leader, as well as a group of exceptional Board members.”

“I thank Jon Fossel for his service on the Board over the past four-plus years,” said Rowe. “Jon provided great wisdom and experience as a Board member and helped NorthWestern through difficult times to become the sound company it is today. I will continue to look to him for good counsel.”

As a citizen legislator and community leader, Bradley has spent most of her life working for the people of Montana. She was elected as the only woman in the Montana House of Representatives in 1971 at the age of 23 and has proven herself to be an independent leader who is not afraid to address hard problems. Throughout her career in public service and 16 years in the House, Bradley has tackled complex and controversial issues including tax reform, natural resources policy, telecommunications modernization, science-and-technology-based economic development, and health care, and gained recognition for her consensus-building approach. During her later sessions, she chaired the Appropriations Subcommittee on Human Services, beginning its enduring tradition of an equal partisan membership.

Bradley left the state legislature in 1992 to run for Montana’s governorship. After winning the Democratic primary, she lost the November election by a small margin. Bradley continued her service to the people of Montana, spending half a year teaching in a small, rural school in Ashland, next to the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation. In the summer of 1993, Bradley was appointed to the newly formed Montana Health Care Authority, and was elected by the members to serve as Chair. Also in 1993, Bradley was hired by Montana State University to become Director of the University System Water Center, a post she held for seven years. The mission of the Center is to promote research, education, and outreach on Montana water issues. Beginning the effort with an office of two and growing to eight, the Center developed a number of distinguished programs under her directorship, including whirling disease research, a national wild fish partnership, and a drinking water education program.

From 2000 to 2007, Bradley was the District Court Administrator for the 18th Judicial District and staff for the County’s Criminal Justice Coordinating Council (CJCC). The CJCC is composed of 10 key officials in Gallatin County’s criminal justice system along with 12 advisors, whose mandate is to serve as the central criminal justice planning body and make recommendations to public policy boards regarding deficiencies and needed changes. Changes brought about through the leadership of the CJCC include a Re-Entry Facility and a new department of Court Services with pretrial, post trial and treatment programs.

Bradley grew up in Bozeman, Mont., received a B.A. in Anthropology from Colorado College in 1969 (Phi Beta Kappa and Distinction in Anthropology), and acquired a law degree from American University in 1983. She has been recognized with an Honorary Doctorate from Colorado College, Business Woman of the Year from the Bozeman Chamber and MSU Alumni Association, and Woman of Achievement from the Montana Business and Professional Women.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Winners of the First Annual Montana BetterBricks Awards Announced

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 16:24:23 GMT

Butte, Mont. – March 16, 2009 – At the first annual Montana BetterBricks Awards, three outstanding leaders in the green building industry were honored for their efforts by BetterBricks, the commercial initiative of the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance, along with NorthWestern Energy and the Montana Electric Cooperative Association (MECA). The winners were announced at the Montana Ambassadors Annual Conference, which was held in February at the Great Northern Hotel in Helena.

The BetterBricks Awards salute individuals pioneering high performance commercial buildings with an emphasis on energy efficiency in the Northwest. For this award, high performance buildings are commercial structures with a substantial level of energy savings as well as some or all of the following characteristics: incorporate day lighting with electrical lighting; reduce operating and maintenance costs; enhance productivity; consider local climate; support early design team decision-making; support commissioning. The result of these efforts: a greater number of buildings that offer improved energy efficiency and bottom line benefits.

The BetterBricks Awards also take place in three other Northwest cities: Portland, Seattle, and Boise. NorthWestern Energy and other Montana utilities encouraged BetterBricks to create a program for the Montana audience and helped facilitate the first annual Montana Awards.

Winners and finalists were selected in the following categories:

Owner/Decision Maker: Those who make decisions about strategic direction regarding investments in high performance buildings. These executives, developers, owners and managers support, authorize and generally enable high performance buildings to be built and operated.

Winner — Gary Griffith, Facilities Director (retired) Bozeman School District. Gary focused on energy conservation for the District, and through a combination of retrofits, repairs and operational practices, he dramatically decreased the District's natural gas consumption by 50 percent. Two of the District's elementary schools are believed to be the only ENERGY STAR ® certified schools in Montana, achieved under his direction.
Finalist — Tom Schussler, Director of Facilities, Providence St. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center and Tim Chopp, Manager of Facilities Engineering, Providence St. Patrick Hospital and Health Sciences Center in Missoula. Because of Tom and Tim’s efforts, St. Patrick is the only hospital to certify (twice) under the ENERGY STAR program in the state of Montana.

Architecture: Those who design buildings and lead the design team on projects that consistently achieve high levels of energy efficiency in both new construction and major renovations.

Winner — Randy Hafer, President and co-owner of High Plains Architects in Billings. Randy led his team to reinvent a professional office building called, “Home on the Range.” This project received LEED® Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building Council, currently Montana’s only Platinum project.

Engineering: Those who have contributed significant solutions to the energy efficient design of mechanical and/or electrical systems for new buildings and major renovations.

Winner — Mark Hines, Mechanical Engineer, Montana state Architecture and Engineering Division, Dept. of Administration. The State Buildings Energy Conservation Program relies on Mark's expertise to design the state’s energy efficiency projects. The program regularly saves 15-30 percent of a building’s energy costs and is reporting over one million dollars in savings a year.

Winners received beautiful ceramic sculptures representing commercial buildings, created by Northwest artist, Natalie Warrens. A panel of judges comprised of industry professionals selected the winners, including Rick Edwards, NorthWestern Energy; John Jennings, BetterBricks; Tom Wood, Bozeman Integrated Design Lab; Ken Sugen, Flathead Electric; Dave Bausch, NorthWestern Energy; and Ken Phillips, Montana DEQ.

About the Montana Ambassadors
The Montana Ambassadors is a volunteer, not-for-profit organization of leaders in business, education, and the professions with a common dedication to living and doing business in Montana and furthering the best interests of the state, serving at the pleasure of the Governor. For more information, visit http://www.montanaambassadors.com.

About the Montana Electric Cooperative Association (MECA)
MECA is a not-for-profit, statewide trade association representing 26 consumer-owned electric distribution cooperatives and three generation and transmission cooperatives serving more than 250,000 people across Montana and in the Dakotas, Wyoming and Idaho. The cooperatives' service areas cover all 56 Montana counties. Each cooperative is customer-owned, locally controlled and not-for-profit. MECA is headquartered in Great Falls, Montana along the banks of the Missouri River. For more information, visit http://www.mtco-ops.com.

About BetterBricks
BetterBricks is the commercial building initiative of the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA), which is supported by local electric utilities, including NorthWestern Energy and Montana electric cooperatives served by the Bonneville Power Administration. Through the BetterBricks initiative, NEEA advocates for changes to energy-related business practices in Northwest buildings. In this era of heightened appreciation for the impact climate change is having on our environment and our economy, energy efficiency is a crucial component in addressing global warming. On http://www.BetterBricks.com, find information, tools, training and resources to help buildings make a difference to the bottom line and the environment.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
mailto:claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Responds to Investigation Findings

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 10:06:32 GMT

Butte , Mont. – March 13, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy has learned that investigators with the City of Bozeman Fire Department and the US Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) have determined that a separation on a two-inch gas service line caused last Thursday’s explosion.

NorthWestern Energy officials have not yet had a chance to fully review the incident report, but they have been working in coordination with the investigation team. The company has brought in independent experts to help with its own investigation. The NorthWestern Energy service line in question has not yet been fully excavated and will be sent to a laboratory for further metallurgical testing to determine what caused the break.

Company investigators are seeking to understand all the evidence gathered to date including gas readings in the vicinity of the separation. However, the company has not examined the gas lines and appliances inside of the involved structures due to the recently completed fire investigation; it must now receive approval from property owners in order to gain access into the explosion site to finish its investigation.

"Our deepest sympathy goes out to the family and friends of Tara Bowman. Her loss will be felt throughout the Bozeman community. Our corporate family also wants others who were affected by the explosion to know you are in our thoughts and prayers. We will continue to work side-by-side with the affected businesses and the city of Bozeman to restore the downtown area to good economic health as soon as possible,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy.

“We will continue to cooperate fully with the city, state and federal officials as they seek answers to a number of questions that still surround this terrible event. We will continue to examine the situation before the explosion and seek answers about why this occurred.”

The company is conducting a complete and thorough examination of the scene and the services in question to understand all of the contributing factors that may have led to this incident as part of ongoing system integrity activities. The additional testing is expected to take approximately three to six months, if all of the parties involved are able to cooperate.

NorthWestern Energy assures all our natural gas and electric customers that we are committed to ensuring the highest level of safety. The company strives to operate its electric and natural gas systems in compliance with all existing federal and state rules and regulations.

The company does annual leak inspection surveys and several other routine maintenance activities including corrosion control per DOT regulations in downtown commercial areas and along its major transmission pipelines. Residential areas are surveyed every five years, in accordance with DOT regulations.

Anyone who believes they smell natural gas should immediately leave the area and call NorthWestern Energy or 911 from a safe location. NorthWestern’s Gas Emergency number is 888-467-2427.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Community Relations Contact:
Mel Kotur
(406) 582-4637
melvin.kotur@northwestern.com

News Brief: NorthWestern Energy Details Explosion Response

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 11:43:34 GMT

Butte, Mont. - March 10, 2009 - 12 p.m. — When disaster strikes, NorthWestern Energy mobilizes to secure electric and natural gas services that may be affected. An incident team is organized, comprised of front line responders, engineers, and others from throughout the company. The team is typically led on site, and remains together through a post-incident evaluation.

The recent explosion in downtown Bozeman is an example of what NorthWestern’s front line crews and other employees do to help ensure public safety. The following is a breakdown of the company’s response to this disaster.

The First 24 Hours
NorthWestern Energy electric and natural gas service employees were on the scene within minutes after the explosion. The company was asked to respond by the Bozeman Fire Department, which is standard procedure in any fire or emergency situation, but employees who felt and/or heard the blast were already en route to assist.

In any emergency situation, the scene is chaotic. This explosion blew out windows in the surrounding area. Shards of glass, splintered wood, brinks and mortar, roofing nails and building material was strewn around a two-block perimeter. Employees quickly coordinated with Bozeman Fire and Police to deenergize the electric service to the downtown area to help protect the safety of emergency workers fighting the fire, and assisted with the evacuation of residents and businesses in the immediate area.

As the linemen and engineers further assessed the situation and the area, they were able to narrow the scope of the electrical safety shutdown to restore electrical service to all but the most affected area, including turning on service to City Hall and emergency services located just blocks from the scene.

Gas service technicians shut off natural gas at the meters to buildings in the area that were most at risk of fire. This, too, is standard procedure in any emergency situation. Several natural gas service lines were damaged in the blast, and blowing natural gas created flames eight to ten feet high. The first priority was to help fire fighters secure the scene and provide whatever assistance they needed with immediate response.

NorthWestern Energy quickly assembled a team of employee-experts to help address the crisis, including those with experience in gas transmission operations and maintenance, pipeline safety, engineering, planning, supply procurement, communications and customer service. This team began reviewing maps and engineering plans to determine how best to isolate and stop the flow of natural gas to the damaged lines.

The company brought in employees from Butte and Deer Lodge to assist with the effort. Approximately a block west of the explosion, Bozeman Division employees exposed the buried 8” steel gas main located in the alley to reach a valve that had been installed in 2007. This valve enables a piece of equipment called a “stopper fitting” to be inserted that seals off the pipeline.

The “Westliners,” NorthWestern Energy’s highly specialized gas transmission response team based in Deer Lodge, began work east of the explosion to install another valve. The line is worked “hot” – in other words, pressurized gas is present in the line while it is being worked. The fitting is welded around the pipe, and then a “Mueller Tapping Machine” (the name of the piece of equipment) is attached which very slowly drills a hole in the top and bottom of the pipeline. Once the holes are drilled the stopper plug is inserted and the flow of gas is stopped.

This work began shortly after the crew arrived from Deer Lodge around 11 a.m. and the valve and fitting was finished around 5:30 p.m. that night. When pressure to the damaged gas line didn’t decrease as expected, the main was further excavated and another gas main, which ran perpendicular to this main, was found just east of the western-most valve. Crews determined that the best, and safest, approach was to install another stopper fitting on the alley main closer to the site of the explosion. That fitting was installed by 11:30 p.m. and by midnight that night the flow of gas was stopped.

Shortly after the initial response and once the area was evacuated, NorthWestern Energy employees working in coordination with Bozeman Fire began testing the ground (called pegging and bar holing) to look for gas leaks. They worked from the outside edge of the perimeters towards the center (the site of the explosion) looking for anything that might indicate the presence of a gas leak. They also inspected buildings and meters to ensure they were in good working condition and that there were no leaks.

By 7 p.m., although the flow of natural gas had not been stopped at the site of the explosion, Bozeman emergency officials determined that all but the immediately-affected area was safe, and allowed business owners and residents the opportunity to go into their property to secure the locations. By this time fire fighters had the fire contained, but used the flames to ensure that the blowing natural gas was safely consumed. Electric service crews were able to restore service to all but a handful of customers on the block.

After the Immediate Crisis
NorthWestern Energy employees remain on an incident scene long after the immediate crisis is over. In this case, NorthWestern linemen repaired and inspected explosion-damaged electric services, transformers, insulators, and line equipment, enabling electric service to be restored to all customers, except those businesses destroyed or severely damaged by the explosion by 2:30 a.m. the next morning.

Natural gas service technicians accompanied business/property owners as they entered their buildings to test for any potential problems and to relight their pilot lights. The company also continued to work on the natural gas main to place secure caps on the pipeline so that temporary, aboveground, services could be run to nearby businesses. This was critically important to those businesses that needed heat in order to reopen and to ensure that an approaching cold front didn’t result in broken water pipes and potentially more problems.

The installation of the caps also secured the services at the explosion site, enabling the investigation into the cause of the explosion to continue. Working in coordination with the Montana Public Service Commission and the US Department of Transportation (DOT) Pipeline Safety Administration, along with other investigating officials from US Department of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) and Bozeman Fire, the company is assisting with tests of the main, service lines and meters and other equipment at the site. The company is cooperating fully and doing all it can to provide whatever information is needed by the investigating authorities.

NorthWestern Energy operates its electric and natural gas systems in compliance with all existing federal and state rules and regulations. The company does annual leak inspection surveys per DOT regulations in downtown commercial areas and along its major transmission pipelines. Residential areas are surveyed every five years, in accordance with DOT regulations. The company also runs advertisements and statement notices educating people on how to recognize the smell of natural gas and what to do if they smell natural gas. Property owners are responsible for the maintenance of natural gas lines from the meter onto their property.

Anyone who believes they smell natural gas should immediately leave the area (without turning on or off lights or picking up a telephone – which may spark an explosion) and call NorthWestern Energy or 911 from a safe location. Gas odor calls are assigned highest priority and are promptly responded to around the clock, seven days a week.

How to report Natural Gas emergencies (including gas odor, carbon monoxide and no heat calls) :

In Montana: 888-467-2427
In South Dakota/Nebraska: 800-245-6977

Moody's Investors Service Upgrades NorthWestern's Credit Ratings

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 09:40:46 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – March 10, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that Moody’s Investors Service (Moody’s) has upgraded NorthWestern’s ratings.

	From	To
Senior Secured Rating	Baa2	Baa1
Senior Unsecured Rating	Baa3	Baa2
Outlook	Positive	Positive

Moody’s cited several reasons for the upgrade including the Company's 2008 financial performance, and the positive benefits of supportive rate case decisions in all three jurisdictions that addressed various operating cost pressures and utility infrastructure additions. Moody’s also acknowledged the fact that NorthWestern has essentially completed its goal of exiting all non-regulated business activities, following regulatory approval by the Montana Public Service Commission (MPSC) to place the company’s 30% ownership interest in the 740 megawatt coal-fired generation plant (Colstrip Unit 4) into utility rate base at a value of approximately $407 million.

NorthWestern is rated investment grade on all senior secured and unsecured debt with Moody’s, Standard and Poor’s Rating Group, and Fitch Investors Service.

“Achieving and maintaining strong credit ratings has been our goal because it is in the interest of our customers, investors and employees. It has also been a key objective of our regulators since the company emerged from bankruptcy, because they recognize the long-term benefits to customers,” said President and CEO Bob Rowe. “It is especially important in a time of market turbulence and instability, and will help us manage our investment commitments even better, and produce benefits to our customers through lower borrowing costs.”

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

News Brief: Update on NorthWestern Energy’s Response to Downtown Bozeman Explosion

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 01:30:00 GMT

Butte, Mont. - March 6, 2009 - 1:30 p.m. — As of midnight Thursday, NorthWestern Energy crews stopped the flow of the natural gas through a pipeline near the blast site in downtown Bozeman allowing firefighters to extinguish the fire fully.

Electricity has been restored to all customers with the exception of those in buildings destroyed or seriously damaged by the explosion and ensuing fire. In addition, NorthWestern has restored natural gas service to all customers except those between Mendenhall and the south side of East Main and Rouse and Bozeman Streets. The Bozeman Hotel was not included in the service disruption and still has gas service.

NorthWestern Energy employees are coordinating with city officials and business owners to complete service inspections and relight pilots.

Natural gas service to the affected area is expected to remain off for several days while workers complete inspections.

NorthWestern Energy is working with city fire officials, the Department of Transportation and the Montana Public Service Commission on the investigation of the incident.

NorthWestern Energy Begins Shiloh Road Transmission Line Relocation Project in Billings, Mont.

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 09:19:58 GMT

Billings, Mont. – March 2, 2009 - NorthWestern Energy and its contractor Mountain Power Construction Company will be starting a project to relocate the existing overhead 100kV transmission line located on the west side of Shiloh Road in Billings. This project is part of the utility services relocation necessary to accommodate the Montana Department of Transportation’s Shiloh Road widening project, which will begin later this spring.

Beginning the week of March 2, and continuing until late May, crews will be accessing utility right of way areas along the west side of Shiloh Road between King and Grand Avenue to install new transmission poles and wires. Once the new line is installed, the contractor will then begin removing the existing 100kV poles and overhead wire that currently exists near the roadway. The majority of the relocation work will be occurring off the main road or traffic areas.   However, as the work progresses and nears intersections, the Mountain Power crews may be working next to the roadway and there is the possibility of partial road closures in the traffic lane nearest to the work zones.

Underground locates will be done in advance of the work. It is important that property owners do not remove the underground locates on their property. Customers in the area should experience little or no disruptions to their electric service.   Crews will be clearly identified, but should landowners in the area have any questions about our work, or our access to rights of way, please do not hesitate to call our customer contact center at (888) 467-2669.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Supports Cost Effective Wind Energy

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 27 Feb 2009 14:27:26 GMT

By Bob Rowe, President and CEO, NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy strongly supports the development of renewable energy in Montana. We back up that commitment with actions and results.

Over 8 percent of the electricity we deliver to our Montana customers comes from wind and other renewables. This is higher than any other regulated utility in the Pacific Northwest and we are on target to achieve at least 15% by 2015. We’re also committing human resources to understanding how best to integrate wind (a highly variable resource) into our system, and to working with wind developers on cost-effective projects.

Recently, there has been some discussion in the media about NorthWestern Energy’s view of small-scale renewable energy development, particularly in relation to HB 491, the “QF bill.”

Our role concerning wind is twofold: We’re a transmission provider that serves as the pathway between Montana generators and customers both in and out-of-state. We’ve recently added to the services we provide these “wind shippers” and we have enabled a number of them to interconnect to our transmission system. We’re also the local utility providing energy to our customers at rates approved by the Public Service Commission. \

It’s the latter role that is now the main focus when discussing small-scale renewable energy production. However, there is confusion between the large amount of electricity generated in Montana on a peak hour basis (over 3,000 megawatts), the smaller amount consumed in Montana on that same peak hour of about 1800 MW, and the still-smaller amount provided by NorthWestern Energy to its mainly small- and medium-sized customers retail customers of about 1200 MW.

Now working for NorthWestern Energy, and from over twenty years of working on energy policy in Montana, I have some views based on tough experience: Resource planning - taking into account costs, benefits, risks and the value of resource diversity - is important. Both renewable resources and energy efficiency are key parts of a diverse resource portfolio. We’ve suffered as a state when our analysis has been too narrow or we were short sighted. We are all too familiar with the damage caused by electricity deregulation in the 1990s. One result of deregulation was that the real progress being made on resource planning, including renewables and efficiency, was knocked off track. Now, NorthWestern Energy is able to take substantive steps in providing our customers with stable, reliable and responsible electricity supply. We’re back on track, and getting better.

We don’t want to repeat past mistakes. In the 1970’s, Congress, with the best of intentions, required utilities to purchase electricity from “Qualifying Facilities” (QFs) at rates set by the state utility commission based on the concept of “avoided cost.” Avoided cost is the cost that the state Public Service Commission estimated the utility would avoid incurring if it were to build its own generator. Those early QF contracts are expensive compared to current market alternatives. Congress’s laudable intent was to promote diversification of resource ownership and to stimulate the development of renewable generation. The passage of time has made the specific QF mechanism less helpful to good resource planning for NorthWestern Energy: We own less than 25 percent of the generation serving our customers. There is a strong renewable generation market – there is much more wind being developed than coal. There are statutory requirements to acquire renewables.

Experience – and a long, difficult proceeding in the late 90’s here in Montana that resulted in customers and NorthWestern Energy sharing the cost of these extremely high-cost contracts – provide a lesson. Today, a QF should be able to demonstrate that it is a cost-effective, reliable resource with sound operating characteristics and competitive with other available resources, including the cost of the resource and of interconnection. NorthWestern is serious about its process for evaluating and acquiring resources, taking into account costs, benefits, and risks over the long term. Contrary to the argument of some QF developers, if their projects are cost effective, compared to our other choices, they will be selected for the supply portfolio.

NorthWestern opposes HB 491 because it’s a step backward in resource acquisition policy. It is not in the best interest of our customers. Some of the current generation of QF advocates may be sincerely unaware of the relevant past, but it matters. Renewable resources frequently provide the highest benefit for our electric portfolio. Mandates that force NorthWestern to acquire QF’s, regardless of their power quality and characteristics, do not provide this benefit.

The Public Service Commission applies, and NorthWestern is bound by, current QF law. NorthWestern supports research and development into new technologies that are not yet commercially competitive but may become so. We also help fund and participate in programs that target small scale and community-level renewable and efficiency programs.

We regularly survey our customers to find out what they want from their utility. Most tell us that they want cost-effective, reliable, responsible electricity service. NorthWestern is serious about renewable resources and excited about wind’s future in Montana. However, it’s not right for our customers to be forced to pay higher rates because a handful of developers want an un-level playing field that would benefit them at the expense of our customers, and distorting the resource planning process we are working hard to strengthen.

We support renewable energy development that benefits all customers. We also recognize the benefit to local economies from responsible development. The amount of wind and renewables already on our system, coupled with our commitment to build the infrastructure to support wind development, is the best evidence.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Montana Ambassadors Honor Champions of High Performance Buildings

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 13:15:04 GMT

First BetterBricks Award Coming to Montana on February 26

Butte, Mont. – February 20, 2009 – The state of Montana has embraced the green building movement and next week will honor champions who are leading the way by hosting the first ever Montana BetterBricks Awards. In a joint venture with NorthWestern Energy and the Montana Electric Cooperative Association (MECA) the event is taking place on Thursday, February 26, 2009, at the Great Northern Hotel in Helena, Mont., in conjunction with the Montana Ambassadors Annual Conference.

The BetterBricks Awards salute individuals pioneering high performance commercial buildings with an emphasis on energy efficiency in the Northwest. The first annual Montana BetterBricks Awards celebrate the people behind the best commercial projects in the state, such as architects, engineers, building owners and developers and other building professionals. The result: a greater number of buildings that offer improved energy efficiency, bottom line benefits and a reduced carbon footprint.

The BetterBricks Awards also take place in three other Northwest cities: Portland, Seattle, and Boise. NorthWestern Energy and other Montana utilities encouraged BetterBricks to create a program for the Montana audience and helped facilitate the first annual Montana Awards.

“BetterBricks awards are prestigious elsewhere. We want to showcase the great work being in Montana as well,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy. “The energy saving work in Montana is very impressive and we are eager to honor our own leaders in energy efficient building practices.”

BetterBricks is partnering with the Montana Ambassadors in order to reach business professionals from all corners of the state. This year’s BetterBricks winners will be announced at the opening dinner of the Ambassadors conference taking place at 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 26, 2009. This year’s keynote speaker is T. Boone Pickens, the oil and gas entrepreneur, who will speak about his plan to reinvest in America and renewable energy.

Judges for the first Montana BetterBricks Awards included Rick Edwards, NorthWestern Energy; John Jennings, BetterBricks; Tom Wood, Bozeman Integrated Design Lab; Ken Sugen, Flathead Electric; Dave Bausch, NorthWestern Energy; Ken Phillips, Montana DEQ.

The conference is open to the public. Interested participants can register to attend at www.montanaambassadors.com.

About BetterBricks
BetterBricks is the commercial building initiative of the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (NEEA), which is supported by local electric utilities, including NorthWestern Energy and Montana electric cooperatives served by the Bonneville Power Administration. Through the BetterBricks initiative, NEEA advocates for changes to energy-related business practices in Northwest buildings. In this era of heightened appreciation for the impact climate change is having on our environment and our economy, energy efficiency is a crucial component in addressing global warming. On www.BetterBricks.com, find information, tools, training and resources to help buildings make a difference to the bottom line and the environment.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy to Help Track Renewable Energy Generation in Montana

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 13:17:36 GMT

Butte , Mont. – February 18, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy is providing a new service to help eligible small renewable energy producers in Montana track renewable energy certificates as a Qualified Reporting Entity (QRE) with the Western Renewable Energy Generation Information System (WREGIS).

”By making this service available to eligible small renewable producers, NorthWestern Energy will provide a service that will help facilitate the development of green energy in Montana,” said Dave Gates, vice president – Wholesale Operations.

WREGIS is a voluntary, independent regional system that tracks renewable generation production to help ensure the credibility of the "green" value of renewable electricity. Using independent, verifiable, and reliable data, the QRE process will make it easier to implement renewable policies and achieve renewable energy goals.

Data in WREGIS includes megawatt-hours produced, fuel source, facility location, and all state, provincial and voluntary renewable energy program qualifications. Each WREGIS certificate, bearing a unique serial number to prevent duplication, is issued for every megawatt-hour of renewable energy produced and deposited on the grid.

The system, which is the largest of its kind in the world in terms of coverage, includes the western United States, parts of Canada, and a portion of Baja California, will be used to meet renewable portfolio standard requirements and other renewable energy policies for states and provinces within the Western Interconnection transmission area. The Western Electric Coordinating Council administers WREGIS. WECC covers 1.8 million square miles in the Western Interconnection System and provides an independent forum for the day-to-day administration of WREGIS.

Interested small renewable energy producers should contact Bob Otten at 406-497-2648 for more information and program requirements.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Reports 2008 Financial Results

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 13 Feb 2009 05:30:13 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – Feb. 13, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) reported financial results for the year ended Dec. 31, 2008.

Refer to attachment.

NorthWestern Energy Welcomes New Director to Board

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 13:56:14 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – February 5, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today announced that Dana J. Dykhouse, President and CEO of First PREMIER Bank is joining the company’s Board of Directors as its independent South Dakota representative.

“We’re looking forward to working with Dana,” said NorthWestern’s President and CEO Bob Rowe. “He has a strong background in building and growing very successful businesses and truly understands our region. His business experience combined with his commitment to community involvement will strengthen NorthWestern’s ability to deliver shareholder value through exceptional customer service. I’m personally looking forward to working with Dana as we renew our focus on supporting the economic vitality of our region”

Dykhouse has served as President and CEO of First PREMIER Bank, which is headquartered in Sioux Falls, S.D., since March 1995. Under Dana’s leadership, First PREMIER Bank’s total assets and assets managed have grown from $250 million to more than $1.5 billion. Together with its sister organization, PREMIER Bankcard, the organization has grown from 175 employees to over 3,300. The American Bankers Association’s ABA Banking Journal has ranked first PREMIER as one of the top 10 performing financial institutions of its size in the nation since 1997. In 2001, 2002 and 2003 the organization was ranked number one. First PREMIER Bank’s Holding Company was ranked number one in 2006.

With over 24 years of banking experience, Dykhouse has served in a variety of positions with other financial institutions. He also serves in a variety of leadership roles in civic, community and professional organizations in South Dakota. Dykhouse is a graduate of South Dakota State University. He lives in Sioux Falls, S.D., and is married with two children.

As a result of Dykhouse’s appointment, Brian Bird, NorthWestern’s Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, who had been serving on the Board pending the Company’s search for an independent director residing in South Dakota, will leave the Board. Bird will remain in his position as Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “I’m grateful for Brian’s efforts over the past few months and I appreciate that he agreed to take on additional responsibilities as a Board Member while a thorough search was conducted for an independent South Dakota Board Member,” added Rowe.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern To Host Year-End 2008 Financial Results Conference Call

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 29 Jan 2009 15:48:51 GMT

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – January 29, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that it will host an investor conference call on Friday, February 13, 2009 at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time (1:00 p.m. Central Time) to review its financial results for the year ended December 31, 2008.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at 3:00 p.m. ET on February 13, 2009, through March 13, 2009, at 800-475-6701, access code 984444.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:

Claudia Rapkoch

(866) 622-8081

claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:

Dan Rausch

(605) 978-2902

daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy's Proposed Mill Creek Generating Station Receives Air Quality Permit

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 12:06:07 GMT

Butte, MT – January 23, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today announced that the Montana Department of Environmental Quality has granted the company’s request for an Air Quality Permit for the proposed Mill Creek Generating Station.

The permit is one of two required approvals needed before construction on the 200 megawatt, $206 million natural gas-fired power plant could begin. As a state regulated plant, the Montana Public Service Commission must also approve the plant for inclusion in ratebase. Hearings on the issue are scheduled to begin in Helena on February 25^th with a decision due in May.

The Mill Creek Generating Station would provide regulating resources to balance the company’s transmission system in Montana to maintain reliability and enable additional wind power to be integrated onto the network to meet its future renewable energy portfolio needs. The facility is designed to enable increasing or decreasing energy production within seconds to follow load fluctuations on the transmission system.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Crews Complete Gas Pipeline Replacement Under Blackfoot River

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 09:44:47 GMT

Butte, Mont. Jan. 23, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy announced today that it has successfully installed and placed into service a thousand-foot section of eight-inch natural gas pipeline below the Blackfoot River near Bonner as a long-term solution for the pipeline exposed by spring runoff last April.

The steel, natural gas pipeline currently provides service to roughly 1,500 residential and small business customers in the Rattlesnake area of Missoula and one large industrial customer west of town. The transition from the interim pipeline to the new one took place without taking any natural gas customers out of service.

Working through the past couple of months, NorthWestern and Southeast Directional Drilling crews successfully drilled a path about 28 feet below the riverbed into which they installed a new 8-inch steel pipe. After this, NorthWestern Energy’s West Line Crew connected the new section of pipe to the existing natural gas pipeline system using a complex system of Mueller equipment and bypass valves.

“This has been an amazing project,” said Dave Gates, NorthWestern’s Vice President of Wholesale Operations. “The geology underneath the river posed unique and challenging obstacles even for the contractor who has vast experience with such projects. Additionally, our crews worked through the holiday season in extreme winter weather to complete this project safely and efficiently.”

NorthWestern, in conjunction with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), has been working on a long-term solution to replace the natural gas pipeline since last April – after the breach of the Milltown Dam – when spring runoff scoured the river channel for the first time in more than a century. During this time, the once slow-moving river dislodged waterlogged timbers upstream that piled up behind the exposed pipeline, which Montana Power had installed in the river channel in 1957.

For a week in late April and early May and under the jurisdiction of the EPA, NorthWestern and contract crews used an open-trench method to bury a new section of pipe in the riverbed. The required burial depths could not be obtained due to the difficult geology and the open-trench solution was soon recognized as an interim solution to the situation. For this initial repair, NorthWestern Energy stopped the flow of natural gas through the pipeline for a short time to ensure the safety of the crews working in the area.

“Although the new pipe was in place, operating safely and serving our customers, we understood that this was not a long-term fix,” said Marc Mullowney, NorthWestern Energy Manager of Gas Engineering and Construction. “The pipe had to be much deeper below the bed of the river. So for the next few months evaluated various options that would allow us to continue to feed gas to the west through this line in a safe and reliable fashion that would not disrupt the river. The EPA was instrumental in helping us work through a solution.”

Last summer, the company contracted with Southeast Directional Drilling, out of Tempe, Ariz., to drill underneath the river using a horizontal directional drilling (HDD) technique. In November, the drilling company was onsite. Using computer technology and a global positioning system, Southeast employees directed an eight-inch drill bit down and under the river on a prescribed route. The pilot bore took about six weeks given the bedrock, cobbles and boulders beneath the river.

Once the drillers made the initial bore, they back reamed the hole to get it to a size greater than the pipe. Southeast Directional Drilling, with the assistance of NorthWestern Energy’s West Line Crew, then pulled the thousand-foot section of steel pipe through the hole. NorthWestern Energy employees also worked onsite to build the bypass system that would allow them to connect the new section of pipe to the existing pipeline without stopping the flow of natural gas to customers.

On the evening of Jan. 20, the new section of pipe officially was in service, according to Pat Callahan, NorthWestern’s Director of Gas Transmission and Storage. He added that NorthWestern employees will backfill the trenches that are set back at least several hundred feet from the riverbanks. In early spring, they will remove the interim pipe and perform reclamation work on the disturbed area.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Alerts Customers to Prepare for Weather-Induced Higher Bills This Winter

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 20 Jan 2009 14:55:54 GMT

Butte , Mont./Huron, S.D. – January 20, 2009 – Due to the extended and extreme cold snap the NorthWestern Energy service territory has experienced this winter, the company is reminding customers to expect higher than normal heating bills.

NorthWestern Energy’s entire service territory has been hit with long periods of below freezing and below zero temperatures, and in some cases record lows. The average temperature during December in Billings, MT was 19.2 (F) degrees, and Missoula averaged 21.3 (F) degrees in December. South Dakota also experienced colder weather in December. In Huron, SD the average temperature for the last 48 days was a mere 11.4 (F) degrees including one day where the Mercury dropped to –30 (F) in Huron and –42 (F) in Aberdeen.

“Your heating system works harder and therefore uses more electricity and natural gas when it is extremely cold outside,” said Frank Spangler – Director of Customer Interaction. “Even though you didn’t change your thermostat setting inside, your furnace has to keep up with what is going on outside the home, and this year there have been many days in a row with below average temperatures.”

Customers with natural gas meters that are covered in snow, or have a meter that is inaccessible due to snowdrifts or ice, may receive an estimated bill. Customers that receive an “estimated bill” are likely to see adjustments to their following month’s bill once an actual meter read is obtained. NorthWestern Energy prefers not to estimate customer usage and makes every attempt to provide customers with billing statements based on actual meter reads each month. To help with the meter reading process, customers and landlords are strongly encouraged to clear a pathway and the area around electric and natural gas meters.

NorthWestern Energy encourages customers to call as soon as possible about problems or questions regarding their account.

Customers in South Dakota and Nebraska should call the Contact Center at (800) 245-6977 while customers in Montana should call (888) 467-2669.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy and South Dakota PUC Remind Customers that "Anybody Can Serve"

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 10:46:58 GMT

Huron/Pierre, S. D. – January 19, 2009 – In honor of the first annual National Day of Service, NorthWestern Energy and the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission are reminding individuals that just a few simple actions are all that’s necessary to save money and save energy.

The National Day of Service is part of a broader effort spearheaded by the National Association of Regulatory Commissioners and championed by a number of different utility industry and advocacy partners to raise awareness of energy efficiency and conservation activities. The Anybody Can Serve…So Let’s Conserve campaign is intended to promote energy efficiency by making conservation efforts more accessible, affordable and practical.

NorthWestern Energy has been very active in educating its South Dakota customers about energy efficiency and conservation activities. “Energy efficiency and conservation is something that we do in partnership with our customers,” said Bob Rowe, president and CEO of NorthWestern Energy. “We provide the knowledge, tools and resources to encourage customers to take meaningful steps to manage their energy use. Knowledge is power, or in this case, power saved.”

“Monday is as good a time as any time to start practicing energy efficiency,” said PUC Chairman Dusty Johnson. “Simple steps like adjusting thermostats and more involved measures like installing efficient water heaters are excellent ways to save energy and money.”

www.northwesternenergy.com and www.SDEnergySmart.com are the places to go for more information on how to live a more energy efficient life. For more information on the National Day of Service or the Anybody Can Serve campaign, please visit www.anybodycanserve.org.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Releations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

###

NorthWestern Energy Reminds its Montana Customers "Anybody Can Serve"

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 10:43:33 GMT

Butte, Mont. – January 19, 2009 – In honor of the first annual National Day of Service, NorthWestern Energy is reminding individuals that just a few simple actions are all that’s necessary to save money and save energy.

The National Day of Service is part of a broader effort spearheaded by the National Association of Regulatory Commissions and championed by a number of different utility industry and advocacy partners to raise awareness of energy efficiency and conservation activities. The Anybody Can Serve…So Let’s Conserve campaign is intended to increase energy efficiency by making conservation efforts more accessible, affordable and practical.

“I applaud NorthWestern Energy for emphasizing the energy efficiency message,” said Montana Public Service Commission Chair Greg Jergeson. “In addition to conserving in your own home, the “Anybody Can Serve…So Let’s Conserve” effort highlights the fact that anyone can help neighbors needing assistance with energy conservation measures. The elderly couple living down the block may need help putting in compact fluorescent light bulbs or installing new weather-stripping. The National Day of Service is an excellent time to check with those around you to see how you can help,” Jergeson added.

NorthWestern Energy has been very active in educating its customers about energy efficiency and conservation activities. The company also provides a variety of valuable incentive and rebate programs to encourage conservation for residential and commercial customers in Montana.

“Energy efficiency and conservation is something that we do in partnership with our customers,” said Bob Rowe, president and CEO of NorthWestern Energy. “We provide the knowledge, tools and resources to encourage customers to take meaningful steps to manage their energy use. Knowledge is power, or in this case, power saved.”

www.northwesternenergy.com is the place to go for more information on how to live a more energy efficient life. For more information on the National Day of Service or the Anybody Can Serve campaign, please visit www.anybodycanserve.org. The Montana Public Service Commission also has energy efficiency and conservation tips at www.psc.state.mt.us.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Announces Open Season for Electric Transmission Projects

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 13:51:56 GMT

Butte, Mont. – January 15, 2009 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) today announced that it notified the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) of its intent to conduct Open Seasons for two electric transmission development projects.

The Open Seasons will allow potential customers to reserve capacity on proposed transmission lines using a FERC approved methodology to ensure fairness and non-discriminatory access. The results of an Open Season are used to ensure that the transmission facility is built to meet the demand and to ensure that the final project will have the revenues necessary to support the investment.

“There are more than 5,000 megawatts of proposed new electric generation – much of it wind energy - that has sought access to our transmission system in Montana,” said Dave Gates, vice president of wholesale operations. “Montana currently has over 3,000 megawatts of generation of which about 1,800 megawatts is used under peak conditions by our native load customers. In order for these wind and other potential projects to be built, we must expand the transmission system to carry the power to population centers across the West where it is in great demand.”

NorthWestern has filed with the FERC to conduct an Open Season on a proposed “collector system” of up to five new transmission lines in Montana that would connect new generation, primarily wind farms, to the existing NorthWestern Energy transmission system and potentially to the proposed Mountain States Transmission Intertie (MSTI). Most of the new proposed wind generation that would be served by the collector system would be located in north central, central, south central and eastern Montana.

NorthWestern has also proposed to the FERC to conduct, in a separate process, a second Open Season on the MSTI line to allow new participants the opportunity to reserve capacity on the line and provide existing participants an opportunity to reaffirm their existing reservations. The MSTI is a proposed 500 kV transmission line that would run from near Townsend, Montana to near Midpoint, Idaho.

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality recently completed its review of the Montana Major Facility Siting Act Application for MSTI and found the Application to be complete, therefore, satisfying the requirements of the State’s administrative rules. The project is currently undergoing environmental review with a draft Environmental Impact Statement due in mid-2009.

“While the regional economy has slowed, utilities across the West are still focused on meeting state Renewable Portfolio Standards (RPS) for their customers over the next several years. Montana has very good wind power potential compared to many other Western states, which is why renewable energy developers and other western utilities are very interested in importing power from Montana,” said Bob Rowe, CEO of NorthWestern Energy. “Responsible renewable energy development has the potential to enhance our regional and local rural economies over the next few years. Our transmission work, therefore, is highly complementary to our focus on providing stable and reliable distribution and supply service to our own customers.”

"I'm committed to helping create good paying jobs and boost Montana's economy, and this open season aims to do just that," said Montana's senior U.S. Senator Max Baucus, chairman of the powerful Senate Finance Committee. "Montana is playing a big part in America’s energy solutions. These new transmission lines will help boost production here at home, improve our energy independence and protect our outdoor heritage. This is good news."

“With renewable energy projects moving full steam ahead, Montana is going to be a leader in America’s energy future,” said U.S. Senator Jon Tester. “This announcement is a big step forward because we need strong infrastructure in order to sell our home-grown energy—creating jobs and opportunity in Montana for generations to come.”

“Nationally, as we look for ways to decrease our dependence on foreign oil and keep energy costs affordable, Montana can play a major role in the development of energy production nationwide. I have supported an all-of-the-above energy solution that includes responsible development of traditional fossil fuels, increased energy conservation, development of alternatives and investment in energy technology,” said U.S. Representative Dennis Rehberg, a member of the Energy and Water Appropriations Subcommittee. “One of the fundamental challenges we face with all of these options is the need for additional infrastructure to get the energy from the production point to the end-user. This announcement is a big step toward accomplishing that goal.”

Governor Brian Schweitzer, who is also the vice-chairman of the Western Governor’s Association, applauded the Northwestern “open season” request for continuing to reinforce that “energy development will be the strongest economic driver for the state of Montana in the coming years. Developing Montana’s alternative and renewable energy resources will result in the creation of high quality jobs in construction and operations of both transmission lines and the attendant wind farms and other energy facilities,” said Governor Schweitzer. “It will also create a strong industrial property tax base that Montana needs, especially in the prairies of north-central and eastern Montana”.

Construction on the MSTI line will begin after all necessary environmental approvals and permits are obtained; it is expected to be placed into service in 2013. For more information about the MSTI project please visit www.msti500kv.com.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Reminds Customers to Remove Snow and Ice from Meters and Exhaust Vents

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 15 Jan 2009 11:13:36 GMT

Huron, S.D. – January 15, 2009 – NorthWestern Energy customers who heat their homes with natural gas or who have natural gas or other fuel burning appliances should make sure their exhaust vents are cleared from blowing and drifting snow. Blocked appliance vents could result in a loss of heat or buildup of deadly carbon monoxide in the structure.

Customers are also strongly encouraged to clear the snow away from natural gas meters. This will help prevent your natural gas regulator from freezing over, which would interrupt the normal flow of natural gas into your home. It will also make it easier for our employees to read your meter or shut off your natural gas service in case of an emergency.

“Keeping exhaust vents and natural gas meters clear of snow, ice or other obstructions helps keep your family safe and warm,” said Mike Sydow – General Manager South Dakota – Nebraska Retail Operations. “A good rule of thumb is whenever you scoop your sidewalks and driveway, also clear the snow away from the area around your natural gas meter, and inspect all of exhaust vents to ensure they are working properly.”

With some relief from bitter cold and blizzard conditions forecasted into the weekend, customers are urged to check heating vents, and also to clear snow and ice away from natural meters.

NorthWestern Energy also strongly encourages customers to install UL-Listed Carbon Monoxide Detectors on each level of homes and businesses.

Customers with questions may call the Contact Center at (800) 245-6977.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Outreach Effort Builds Upon Energy Summit Momentum

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:32:01 GMT

Butte , Mont. – January 10, 2009 – Citing the enthusiasm and momentum generated by the energy summit, “Realizing Montana’s Energy Future,” NorthWestern Energy is launching a stakeholder initiative to gather input and information that will be used as part of its planning process.

NorthWestern Energy is proud to have participated in and co-sponsored the event, which drew more than 330 participants from throughout Montana and around the region to engage in a collaborative dialogue regarding Montana’s energy future as affects customers, communities and the environment. NorthWestern also acknowledges the valuable contributions of its co-sponsors, the Burton K. Wheeler Center for Public Policy at Montana State University in Bozeman and Carroll College of Montana.

“The dialogue initiated at the summit has been very valuable. The issues raised and insights generated should be addressed further through a series of workshops across our Montana service area,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy. “The purpose of the meetings will be to generate additional input and insights from key stakeholder groups. The workshops would build on the success of the summit by soliciting broader input regarding critical issues facing our energy future and would focus on formulating constructive potential solutions to be pursued.”

Rowe added, “At NorthWestern, we are particularly focused on investment in and operation of the network, which is critical infrastructure for customers and the communities we serve. We will continue our focus on key issues including energy supply, transmission, efficiency, network integrity, rural infrastructure and greater technology deployment.”

Over the next few weeks, NorthWestern, in consultation with other interested parties, including participants at the summit, will identify and further analyze what appear to be the key forward-looking energy issues raised over the last two days. In addition to stakeholder outreach efforts, NorthWestern will summarize a few selected topics emerging from the summit into brief discussion papers, including rural infrastructure, or ways to encourage greater customer access to energy efficiency. These discussion papers will allow key stakeholder groups to understand better the opportunities and the challenges associated with achieving the energy future that we all desire. The documents will not be crafted to present or presume conclusions, but to stimulate a more informed, collaborative dialogue regarding the future.

NorthWestern will provide further information on these activities in the coming weeks and interested individuals should also check www.northwesternenergy.com for further information as it becomes available.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Files for Rate Reduction Resulting from Tax Adjustments

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 15:36:27 GMT

Butte, Mont. – December 12, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy plans to reduce its electric and natural gas transmission and distribution rates beginning January 1 due to the combined effect of a lower 2008 Montana property tax bill and an estimated refund of property taxes protested in prior years, based on the company’s recent property tax settlement with the Montana Department of Revenue.

The company expects to reduce residential electric transmission and distribution rates by 3.01 percent and residential natural gas distribution, transmission and storage rates by 1.83 percent. The net effect on the average total electric bill (750 kWh) is a reduction of $0.97 per month and a reduction of $0.76 per month on average total natural gas bills (10 Dkt).

Following this adjustment, property taxes will account for approximately 20.2 percent of an average residential electric bill transmission and distribution rate and approximately 20.8 percent of an average residential natural gas bill transmission, distribution and storage rate. NorthWestern’s total 2008 electric and natural gas property tax bill is approximately $72 million.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rpkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Announces Purchase of Wind Power for South Dakota Electric Customers

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 14:40:15 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – December 9, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) announced today that it has reached an agreement to purchase 25 megawatts (MW) of wind power from a planned Hand County wind farm to serve electric customers in South Dakota.

The agreement with Rolling Thunder 1 Power Partners, which is owned by BP Wind Energy and Clipper Windpower, is the first renewable source of energy to be made available to customers in NorthWestern Energy’s South Dakota utility. “Wind power is important to our customers and to the economic development of South Dakota,” said Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy’s president and CEO. “We’re excited to begin the process of diversifying our fuel supply mix in South Dakota to include the benefits of clean, renewable energy.”

"Power purchase agreements like this one announced by NorthWestern Energy are a necessary component for wind energy development in South Dakota," said South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Chairman Dusty Johnson. "The news that NorthWestern Energy's South Dakota customers may soon be served by renewable energy is great."

Under the 20-year agreement, NorthWestern will purchase 25 MW from the Rolling Thunder 1 Power Partners project that will be built in Hand County south of the town of Ree Heights. The Clipper 2.5 MW Liberty Wind Turbines will be manufactured at a plant in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

The wind farm is anticipated to begin construction in the first half of 2009, with commercial operation expected by early 2010.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy to Share Property Tax Refund with Customers

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 12:13:18 GMT

Butte, Mont. – November 26, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) announced today that it has resolved its dispute with the Montana Department of Revenue over property tax assessments related to the years 2005 through 2008.

NorthWestern had previously paid the taxes for those years but protested portions of those property taxes, as permitted by state law. Protested property tax amounts are held in escrow by the State of Montana and the applicable counties.

As a result of this settlement, NorthWestern has agreed to withdraw the protest and receive a refund of approximately $4.7 million of the previously paid property taxes. As a result of the settlement, the State of Montana will release the previously protested property taxes to the schools and municipalities.

"We are pleased to have this issue resolved in a way that recognizes our customers' interests and releases much-needed cash for local schools and governments,” said Bob Rowe, president and CEO.

Since NorthWestern has a property tax tracker in Montana, approximately $2.8 million of the refund will be returned to customers and the remainder will be reflected as a reduction of property tax expense in the Company’s fourth quarter financial results for 2008.

Media Contact:
Claudia rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:B
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Opens Full-Service Customer Office

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 08:23:14 GMT

Butte , Mont. – November 26, 2008 – In an effort to improve customer service, NorthWestern has launched a pilot program in Butte that involves moving the company’s bill-payment window to a full-service Customer Payment Office. Starting Monday, December 1, 2008, the new customer service office will be located inside the utility’s Butte Division service center located at 400 Oxford, just off South Montana St.

At this office, customers may pay their utility bills, talk personally with a customer service representative, obtain information on NorthWestern’s customer programs and services, sign up for new service or make a change to their current service, among other things. The office will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“We believe the new location will be more convenient for a number of reasons,” explained Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President of Customer Care and Communications. “First of all, it offers plenty of free parking and the location is situated more centrally in the city. It also provides customers with an opportunity to visit one-on-one with a customer service representative.”

Prior to 1995, the company had local payment offices in many of its service towns. During the restructuring, those offices were closed and all customer service inquiries were directed to the Customer Contact Center located in Butte.

“Re-opening a Customer Payment Office within the Butte Division Office is a pilot program through which we can study the feasibility and viability of opening payment offices in other towns,” Schroeppel said. “If we find that customers value a local Customer Service Payment Office, it is possible that in the future we re-establish payment office’s in other locations around our service area.”

Starting December 1, payments will no longer be received at NorthWestern’s General Office located on East Broadway Street. All customers seeking a place to pay their bill should go to the new office located at 400 Oxford Street.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Encourages Nominations for Montana's First Annual BetterBricks Awards

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 20 Nov 2008 12:43:25 GMT

Butte, Mont. – November 20, 2008 – Montana developers, owners, engineers and architects are changing how buildings are built and NorthWestern Energy is partnering with the Northwest Energy Efficiency Alliance to recognize their achievement.

The Inaugural Montana BetterBricks Awards celebrate the people behind the best commercial projects in the state. The BetterBricks Awards salute individuals responsible for building or operating high performance commercial buildings with an emphasis on energy efficiency. Thanks to their efforts, the results include more buildings that offer improved energy efficiency, bottom line benefits and a reduced carbon footprint.

This is the first opportunity in Montana for local champions of high performance buildings to be nominated for these awards.

The inaugural Montana BetterBricks Awards will take place in February in conjunction with the Montana Ambassadors Awards in Helena. To nominate someone, please visit the Montana Awards section at www.BetterBricks.com/Awards. The deadline for nomination submissions is December 5, 2008.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Provides Update on Montana Public Service Commission Proceedings Regarding Colstrip Unit 4

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 13 Nov 2008 17:16:57 GMT

NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE:NWE) announced today that the Montana Public Service Commission has made formal its approval of placing the company’s ownership interest in Colstrip Unit 4 into the ratebase.

Effective January 1, 2009, 222 megawatts of electricity from the coal-fired unit in southeastern Montana will be placed into rates at value of $407 million. The decision makes Colstrip Unit 4 the foundation of NorthWestern Energy’s efforts to become a vertically integrated utility in Montana.

“Our portion of Colstrip 4 will provide our Montana customers with a dedicated and stable source of electric supply. We appreciate the MPSC’s thoughtful and expeditious consideration of our application,” said Bob Rowe, president and CEO.

The Commissioners voted 4-1 to approve the application.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Responds to Montana Public Service Commission Proceedings Regarding Colstrip Unit 4

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 31 Oct 2008 17:31:56 GMT

Butte , Mont. – October 31, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today issued a statement in reaction to initial votes to draft orders regarding dockets related to Colstrip Unit 4.

“We disagree and we’re disappointed with the decision related to the bankruptcy stipulation, but we will reserve further comment on the matter until we see the language in the final order,” said Claudia Rapkoch, Director – Corporate Communication.

“While there are still some concerns to be resolved regarding the decision to rate base the ownership interest in Colstrip Unit 4, we appreciate all of the time and effort that the PSC Commissioners and staff have spent carefully considering this issue.”

The Commissioners gave staff members direction to draft an order that would result in the rate basing of Colstrip Unit 4 at the amount requested by the company ($407 million) and recognizing that $161 million of the Net Operating Losses (NOL) balance belongs to the company. The draft order is due to be reviewed by the Commissioners on November 13 with a final order issued on November 14.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Reports Third Quarter 2008 Financial Results

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 30 Oct 2008 05:03:26 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – Oct. 30, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) reported financial results for the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2008.

Highlights for the quarter include:

Net income improved to $13.4 million in the third quarter of 2008 compared with $13.2 million in the third quarter of 2007;
Completed a share buyback program for approximately 3.1 million shares amounting to approximately $77.7 million;
Increased expected GAAP earnings guidance for 2008 to be $1.65 - $1.80/fully diluted share;
Filed a request with the MPSC for advanced approval of the proposed $206 million, 150 MW Mill Creek Generating Station;
Filed the Major Facility Siting Act and Environmental Report with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality for the proposed Mountain States Transmission Intertie project; and
Quarterly dividend of 33 cents per share declared for shareholders of record on Dec. 15, 2008, payable on Dec. 31, 2008.

Financial Results

Consolidated net income was $13.4 million or $.35 per diluted share for the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2008, a 1.5% increase compared with consolidated net income of $13.2 million or $.35 per diluted share for the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2007.

For the third quarter of 2008, net income improvements included an unrealized gain on forward contracts related to our Colstrip Unit 4 generating plant of approximately $10.2 million, lower legal and professional fees of approximately $4.3 million and rate increases of approximately $3.8 million. These improvements were offset by an increase in pension expense of $11.4 million related to the pension plan for our Montana employees, a reduction in volumes caused by milder weather of approximately $2 million, as well as increased labor, benefits and severance costs of approximately $2.8 million.

“We are pleased with our third quarter 2008 net income, particularly considering it included a charge of approximately $11.4 million related to pension expense,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO. “In addition, despite the recent decline in national economic conditions, our balance sheet, liquidity and operational cash flows remain strong.”

Consolidated net income for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 was $46.3 million, an increase of $11.5 million, or 33.1%, over $34.8 million in 2007.

For the first nine months of 2008, net income improvements included an increase in volumes contributing $17.5 million caused by colder winter weather, an increase in plant availability at Colstrip Unit 4 and customer growth, rate increases of approximately $14.4 million, and lower legal and professional fees of approximately $6.0 million, compared with the first nine months of 2007. These improvements were offset by an increase in pension expense of $11.4 million, as well as approximately $10.0 million lower margins in the unregulated electric segment due to lower prices and increased fuel supply costs.

Consolidated gross margin for the third quarter of 2008 was $141.7 million compared with $126.8 million for the third quarter of 2007. The increase in gross margin was primarily due to an unrealized gain of approximately $10.2 million on forward contracts due to changes in forward prices of electricity in the unregulated electric segment as well as rate increases in the regulated electric and natural gas segments of about $3.8 million.

Consolidated gross margin for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 was $425.8 million, an increase of $33.3 million over the first nine months of 2007 due primarily to rate increases, volume increases, an unrealized gain on forward contracts and reduced qualifying facility supply costs.

Consolidated operating, general and administrative expenses were $63.4 million for the third quarter of 2008 compared with $52.5 million for the third quarter of 2007. The increase was due primarily to an $11.4 million increase in pension expense. Pension costs in Montana are included in expense on a pay-as-you-go (cash funding) basis. In 2005, the MPSC authorized the recognition of pension costs based on an average of the annual funding to be made over a 5-year period for the calendar years 2005 through 2009. Based on plan asset market losses through September 2008, we have increased our 2009 cash funding projections for our Montana plan from $17.0 million to approximately $47.0 million, which exceeds our original estimated minimum funding requirements. In accordance with the MPSC’s 2005 authorization, this will result in annual pension expense for 2008 and 2009 of $37.5 million, which is approximately $15.2 million higher than our original projection.

“Our employees are critical to the business, so we plan a total payment of approximately $54 million companywide to the pension plan in 2009, approximately $30 million more than we had originally projected,” added Rowe. “We also plan to offset that incremental pension funding by delaying capital expenditures in our growth projects by a similar amount in 2009.”

Consolidated operating, general and administrative expenses were $177.3 million for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 as compared with $173.6 million in same period of 2007. The increase was due primarily to an increase in pension expense offset by a decrease in operating lease expense related to the purchase of our previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4.

Property and other taxes were $21.7 million in the third quarter of 2008 compared with $20.4 million in the same period of 2007. For the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008, property and other taxes were $66.0 million compared with $61.7 million in the same period of 2007.

Depreciation expense was $21.3 million in the third quarter of 2008 compared with $20.7 million in the same period of 2007. The increase in depreciation expense was related primarily to the purchase of the previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4. For the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008, depreciation expense was $63.6 million compared with $61.4 million in the same period of 2007.

Interest expense was $15.6 million for the third quarter of 2008 compared with $14.6 million for the third quarter of 2007, primarily related to the additional debt incurred for the purchase of the previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4. For the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008, interest expense was $47.5 million compared with $42.4 million in the same period of 2007.

Results from Regulated Operations

Regulated electric gross margin for the third quarter of 2008 was $94.7 million, up 2.7 percent, compared with $92.2 million for the same period in 2007. This $2.5 million increase was primarily due to a rate increase in this segment.

Regulated retail electric volumes for the third quarter of 2008 totaled 2,626,000 megawatt hours compared with 2,666,000 megawatt hours for the third quarter of 2007, a 1.5% decrease. The decrease was due primarily to cooler summer weather than the same period in 2007. Wholesale electric volumes were 71,000 megawatt hours for the third quarter 2008, an increase from 54,000 megawatt hours for the same period of 2007, due primarily to increased plant availability in the South Dakota generation facilities.

Regulated electric gross margin for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 increased $19.5 million as compared with the same period in 2007, due primarily to rate increases, reduced qualifying facility supply costs, and volume increases from customer growth, colder winter weather and plant availability.

Regulated retail electric volumes for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 totaled 7,630,000 megawatt hours, an increase of 1.7% as compared with the same period in 2007. Regulated wholesale electric volumes for the first nine months in 2008 were 202,000 megawatt hours, an increase from 119,000 megawatt hours in the same period in 2007, due to an increase in customer loads.

Regulated natural gas gross margin was $22.8 million for the third quarter of 2008 compared with $20.8 million for the third quarter in 2007. The increase was primarily due to rate increases and increased volumes due to 1.0% customer growth.

Regulated retail natural gas volumes were 2,344,000 dekatherms for the third quarter of 2008, an increase of 5.4% compared with 2,223,000 dekatherms for the same period in 2007. The increase in volumes was primarily due to customer growth.

Regulated natural gas gross margin for the first nine months of 2008 was $103.8 million compared with $88.9 million for the same period in 2007. The increase was primarily due to increased volumes due to colder weather and 1.2% customer growth along with rate increases.

Regulated retail natural gas volumes were 22,571,000 dekatherms for the first nine months of 2008 compared with 20,035,000 dekatherms for the same period in 2007.

Results from Unregulated Operations

Gross margin from unregulated electric operations was $24.3 million for the third quarter of 2008, compared with $13.6 million for the third quarter of 2007, primarily due to an unrealized gain of approximately $10.2 million on forward contracts due to changes in forward prices of electricity. These contracts economically hedge a portion of our Colstrip Unit 4 output through 2009. Unrealized gains and losses will be recorded based on market prices through the duration of these contracts; however, they will ultimately reverse as the power is delivered.

Unregulated electric volumes were 440,000 megawatt hours in the third quarter of 2008 compared with 454,000 megawatt hours in the same period in 2007. Electric volumes at Colstrip Unit 4 decreased primarily due to reduced plant and transmission availability.

Unregulated electric gross margin for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 was $42.6 million as compared with $42.0 million with the same period in 2007.

Unregulated retail electric volumes for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 totaled 1,331,000 megawatt hours, an increase of 11.9% as compared with the same period in 2007.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of Sept. 30, 2008, cash and cash equivalents were $8.6 million compared with $4.7 million at Sept. 30, 2007. The Company had revolver availability of $120.3 million at Sept. 30, 2008 compared with $156.6 million at Sept. 30, 2007. The decrease in revolver availability was due primarily to the share buyback program completed amounting to approximately $78 million during the third quarter of 2008.

Cash provided by operating activities totaled $176.7 million during the first nine months of 2008, compared with $173.9 million during the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2007.

The Company used $80.9 million for investment activities during the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 compared with $116.7 million for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2007. Capital expenditures for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 were $81.0 million as compared with $77.9 million in 2007. In addition, in 2007 the Company used $40.2 million to complete the purchase of a portion of our previously leased interest in the Colstrip Unit 4 generating facility.

The Company used $100.0 million in financing activities during the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 compared with $54.4 million for the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2007. During the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2008 the Company used $78.6 million to repurchase shares of the Company and paid dividends on common stock of $38.0 million. During the nine months ended Sept. 30, 2007, the Company made debt repayments of $44.4 million and paid dividends on common stock of $34.4 million.

Colstrip Unit 4 Matters Update

In January 2008, the Company announced that it was performing an evaluation of our strategic options related to our 30% ownership interest in Colstrip Unit 4. On June 10, 2008, the Company entered into an agreement to sell our interest in Colstrip Unit 4 for $404 million in cash, subject to certain working capital adjustments. The agreement provides a timeline of 120 days for us to explore the viability of placing this asset into our Montana utility rate base. The agreement also contains certain termination rights for both us and the buyer for which, under specified circumstances, the Company may be required to pay a termination fee of $6.3 million or the buyer may be required to pay a termination fee of $20 million.

Consistent with these terms, on June 30, 2008, the Company submitted a filing with MPSC to initiate a review process to determine if it would be in the public interest to place its interest in Colstrip Unit 4 into rate base at an equivalent value to the negotiated selling price including certain adjustments. A hearing was conducted in September, and the Company anticipates a ruling by the Montana Public Service Commission (“MPSC”) by mid-November. If the MPSC does not rate base at the equivalent value, the Company expects to complete the process to sell Colstrip 4 to Bicent (Montana) Power Company (“Bicent”) by year-end although the agreement allows for closing to occur at anytime before the end of January 2009.

Also related to Colstrip Unit 4 during the first quarter of 2008, the MPSC opened a proceeding to investigate our compliance with a 2004 MPSC order limiting our ability to provide loans, guarantees, advances, equity investments or working capital to subsidiaries or affiliates. A ruling on this matter is expected from the MPSC by mid-November.

Dividend

NorthWestern’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 33 cents per share, payable on Dec. 31, 2008, to common shareholders of record as of Dec. 15, 2008.

2008 Earnings Outlook

NorthWestern increased its estimate for earnings per share in 2008 to be in the range of
$1.65 - $1.80 per fully diluted share. The guidance assumptions for 2008 include:

The Company’s year-to-date actual results of operations;
Impact of rate relief in the Company’s service territories;
Decreased lease expense and increased depreciation and interest expense related to the purchase of the previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4;
Lower average pricing on forward sales contracts and anticipated output volumes of 1.7 million megawatt hours at Colstrip Unit 4;
An after-tax increase in pension expense of approximately $9.4 million over the Company’s previous projection;
No after-tax unrealized gain or loss in the 2008 earnings for the forward contracts to hedge forward prices of electricity at Colstrip Unit 4;
An after-tax impact of additional insurance proceeds, ranging between $3.0 million and $5.0 million, anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2008;
Fully diluted average shares outstanding of 38.0 million; and
Normal weather in the Company’s electric and natural gas service territories for the fourth quarter of 2008.

Company Hosting Investor Conference Call

NorthWestern will host an investor conference call today (Oct. 30) at 11:00 am Eastern Time (10:00 a.m. Central Time) to review its financial results for the quarter ended Sept. 30, 2008.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading. To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at noon ET on Oct. 30, 2008, through Nov. 30, 2008, at 800-475-6701, access code 965194.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD—LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, the information under “2008 Earnings Outlook”. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:

potential additional adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, results of operations and financial condition;
unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments, may reduce revenues or may increase operating costs, each of which would adversely affect our liquidity;
unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs, which may reduce revenues and increase operating costs or may require additional capital expenditures or other increased operating costs; and
adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in the U.S. financial markets and in our service territories.

In addition, we may not be able to complete the proposed Colstrip Unit 4 transaction due to a number of factors, including the failure to obtain regulatory approvals, the MPSC issuing an order providing the Colstrip Unit 4 interest will be included in NorthWestern’s rate base, the exercise by existing owners of rights of first refusal, the occurrence of a material adverse effect, or failure to satisfy other closing conditions.

Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, recent and forthcoming Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Form 8-K and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Receives Fifth ServiceOne Award for Excellence in Customer Care

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 27 Oct 2008 14:47:50 GMT

Butte, Mont. – October 27, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy recently was awarded its fifth straight ServiceOne award for excellence in customer care from PA Consulting Group, the management, systems and technology consultancy.

ServiceOne awards recognize companies for providing exceptional service to their customers as determined by a set of 25 objective measures of excellence in customer care as identified by a panel of industry experts. These functional areas include the contact center, billing, payment, revenue protection, credit and collections, meter reading and safety. Participating PA Polaris companies much achieve top quartile on the ServiceOne scorecard to be considered for the ServiceOne award.

In addition to receiving the ServiceOne award, the company’s credit and collections team received the inaugural functional excellence award for singular achievement compared to all other participating utilities.

“While the ServiceOne award recognizes excellence in the customer care, the recognition is shared by all NorthWestern employees who work each day to provide quality service to our customers,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, vice president customer care and communications.

NorthWestern was one of two companies to receive the 2008 ServiceOne award and the only combination electric and natural gas utility. The awards were presented to the company at a ceremony in Washington DC.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Issues Safety Reminders as First Winter Storm of the Season Approaches

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 09 Oct 2008 16:19:02 GMT

Butte, Mont. – October 9, 2008 – As the first major winter storm of the season approaches, NorthWestern Energy is reminding customers how to stay safe and warm during winter storms.

Downed power lines are potentially a problem in areas that experience high winds or heavy snow loading. Downed power lines may still be energized and should be avoided at all times. Stay away from downed or low hanging power lines (even if you think it may be a phone or cable line). Keep others clear of the area and call NorthWestern Energy or 911 and we will come take care of it as soon as possible.

If your home or business loses power, please call us to report the outage. Occasionally, outages during major storms may be longer than normal. While our crews will be working as quickly as possible to restore any electric outages that may occur, there are a few things in the event the electricity goes out.

Remember to keep freezer and refrigerator doors closed to retain the cold;
Unplug sensitive electrical equipment such as computers and televisions;
Keep flashlights (with fresh batteries) handy and easily accessible;
Portable generators should be kept in good working condition and set up according to manufacturer’s specifications by qualified electricians to ensure your safety and the safety of our employees who may be working to restore your service.

Use a woodstove or fireplace only if they are in safe working condition and vented outside.
Only use propane or kerosene space heaters as a last resort, and be sure to leave a window open ensuring adequate ventilation to allow sufficient combustion air and to permit exhaust by-products to exit. Carbon Monoxide (CO) can build up quickly if the heater isn't working properly.
Do not place a space heater within three feet of anything that may catch on fire, such as drapes, furniture, or bedding.
Never use a hibachi or charcoal barbecue indoors - the fumes are deadly.
Don’t try to heat your home with the flame from a range or oven.
Elderly people, infants, and people with certain medical conditions are at greater risk of hypothermia, even indoors. Dress in layers and use blankets to ward off a chill. Drink warm beverages, but avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can exacerbate hypothermic situations. If you lose heat in your home consider going to another location that has heat.

If you experience problems with natural gas heat or an electrical outage, please call NorthWestern Energy right away.

Gas Emergencies: 1-888-467-2427
Electric Emergencies: 1-888-467-2353

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Mobilizes Crews to Restore Natural Gas Service in Whitefish, Montana

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 07 Oct 2008 13:50:07 GMT

Butte , Mont. – October 7, 2008 – Shortly before noon, a contractor working in the Whitefish area hit and damaged a natural gas line that serves the Big Mountain Ski Resort and approximately 500 homes.

NorthWestern Energy has to take the line out of service in order to complete the repairs. Therefore, employees are now in the process of shutting off natural gas at the meter to each of these homes. Once the line is repaired and repressurized, employees will be going door-to-door to relight pilot lights.

While NorthWestern is bringing in additional employees from Missoula, Hamilton, Butte and Helena to assist with this effort, it is possible that some residential customers may be without gas service for as long as 30-48 hours. The area is a mix of year-round and seasonal residences. Customers who aren’t able to be home when an employee stops by to relight the pilot will receive a door hangar with instructions to call the Contact Center to arrange for the relight.

Because of the number of customers involved in the initial relight, NorthWestern will be working systematically through the neighborhood to restore gas service and won’t be able to schedule relights until the initial restoration is complete. Customers in need of more information should call 1-888-467-2669. Customers who smell natural gas or believe they have a gas leak should immediately leave the area and call 1-888-467-2427 or 911.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Names Dan Wolf as New Kearney Area Manager

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 06 Oct 2008 09:59:04 GMT

Huron, S.D. – October 6, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy announced today that Dan Wolf has been named Area Manager in Kearney, Nebraska. Wolf will be responsible for the day-to-day oversight of the Kearney operations.

Wolf is a Canton, S.D. native and a graduate of the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology’s Electrical Engineering program. He is currently working on his Master’s in Technology Management at the School of Mines.

Wolf’s professional career began at NorthWestern Energy in October of 2005. He currently is the Area Engineer for the Yankton Area in South Dakota.

“Kearney is such a progressive city so the growth of our system and the challenges of this new role will be rewarding,” said Wolf. “NorthWestern is committed to partnering with customers and our community leaders to ensure a strong future, and I am excited to be a part of that.”

Wolf is involved with Kiwanis and Yankton Verve. Dan and his wife Heidi were recently married, and are active in the community of Yankton, as well as various activities within their church.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Issues Request for Proposals for Firm Electricity Supply

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:52:52 GMT

Butte, Mont. – October 1, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy is seeking offers for up to 100 megawatts (MW) of firm electricity supply, in blocks of 25 MW, to serve its Montana customers beginning July 1, 2010.

The company’s Request for Proposal detailing all requirements is available online at www.northwesternenergy.com and www.wspp.org. All offers are due by 5:00 pm Mountain Daylight Time on Tuesday, October 21, 2008. Delivery is either to NorthWestern’s transmission system or the Mid-C. For more information on the RFP and bid process, please contact Kevin Markovich at 406-497-3336 or Kevin.markovich@northwestern.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

All NorthWestern Energy Customers Invited to Great Falls, Montana, Customer Appreciation Home Energy Event

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 15:22:12 GMT

Butte, Mont. – September 30, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy invites all of its customers in the Great Falls area to attend its Home Energy Customer Appreciation Event this Saturday (October 4) at the Montana Expo Park Trades and Industry building, 400 Third Street, NW from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

NorthWestern will have refreshments, safety activities for the kids, online Calc-U-Pal demonstrations and information about NorthWestern Energy programs and services. “Many of our customers are interested in learning how to be smart energy consumers, so we’ve expanded and modified our customer appreciation events this year to include presentations on everything from our rebate and incentive programs to small scale renewable energy applications,” said Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President – Customer Care and Communications.

Presentation Schedule

10:30 – 11:15	Save with ENERGY STAR^® and NorthWestern Energy Rebates
11:15 – 12:00	Explore Small Scale Renewable Energy
12:00 – 12:45	Keep the Heat In with Do-it-Yourself Measures
12:45 – 1:30	Save with ENERGY STAR^® and NORTHWESTERN ENERGY Rebates
1:30 – 2:15	Explore Small Scale Renewable Energy
2:15 – 3:00	Keep the Heat In with Do-it-Yourself Measures

NorthWestern Energy primarily serves electricity to customers in the Great Falls area. Residential electric customers who have not received free Compact Fluorescent Light (CFL) bulbs from NorthWestern at any other event this year are eligible to receive free CFL bulbs at this event. NorthWestern Energy is not the primary natural gas provider in the Great Falls area, but does have natural gas customers in communities near Great Falls. NorthWestern Energy natural gas home space or water heating customers who have not received a kit at any prior event or through a home energy audit may be eligible to receive a free weatherization kit at the event. Further qualifications may apply.

The Great Falls Area Home Energy Customer Appreciation Event is one of more than 40 local events scheduled in Montana this fall. Please visit www.northwesternenergy.com or call (800) 823-5995 for the complete Montana schedule, further details on starter Weatherization kits, and information about NorthWestern Energy’s E+ rebate programs.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Four Colstrip Transmission System Partners Announce Agreement to Evaluate Potential Upgrade to 500kV Lines to Accommodate Renewables

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 10:00:00 GMT

Participants Include NorthWestern Energy, Puget Sound Energy,
PacifiCorp, and Portland General Electric

Butte, Mont. – September 2, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that it and three other ownership partners in the Colstrip Transmission System (CTS) have agreed to proceed with a study of potential upgrades to the existing 500-kilovolt (kV) system in Montana. NorthWestern Energy, Puget Sound Energy (NYSE: PSD), PacifiCorp, and Portland General Electric (NYSE: POR) will work together to identify and evaluate one or more potential system upgrades that may accommodate the transmission of wind and other renewable generation.

The Colstrip Transmission System (CTS) consists primarily of twin 500-kV lines that carry electricity from the companies’ jointly owned Colstrip power plants in eastern Montana to Townsend, Mont., where the CTS lines interconnect with the Bonneville Power Administration (BPA) transmission system. The CTS and BPA transmission lines ultimately deliver Colstrip power to the customers of Puget Sound Energy, PacifiCorp, Avista and Portland General Electric. As part of the study agreement, the companies will begin discussions with BPA about a corresponding upgrade of its Montana Intertie between Townsend and Garrison, Mont., and points west.

“The Colstrip Transmission System was originally built almost 30 years ago to carry power from the coal-fired Colstrip plants. But times have changed, and it’s the growth and development of renewable energy that is the basis for the agreement,” said David Gates, vice president, Wholesale Operations, NorthWestern Energy.

“This agreement is the logical next step in the development of this upgrade project,” Gates said. “Montana’s superior wind power potential combined with renewable portfolio standards in Washington and Oregon have spurred the renewed interest by the other owners to consider options for moving more of this new generation from Montana to the Northwest.”

“Montana’s great promise for wind power could significantly enhance the geographic diversity of wind resources in the Pacific Northwest, but only if we have the ability to move the power to where our customers live and work,” said Sue McLain, senior vice president of Operations for Puget Sound Energy.

“Renewable energy resource areas can only reach their full potential when accessed by robust transmission capacity,” said John Cupparo, PacifiCorp’s vice president of transmission. “That’s true for Montana and for other areas of the West where renewable resources are developing alongside traditional sources of power generation.”

"Utilities in the Pacific Northwest are going to need more transmission capacity to handle growing loads and to integrate new renewables into the grid – which will also be essential for us to make progress in reducing greenhouse gas emissions," said Joe McArthur, Portland General Electric’s vice president for transmission and customer service. "This project is one of several major efforts regionwide that show promise of helping us meet that need."

The four utilities have agreed to share the cost to conduct a thorough and independent review of the power-transmission alternatives and potential ownership structures. The ownership structure of any upgrade option will be determined once projects are identified and agreed to by participating utilities.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

About Puget Sound Energy
Washington state’s oldest and largest energy utility, with a 6,000-square-mile service territory stretching across 11 counties, Puget Sound Energy (PSE) serves more than 1 million electric customers and 737,000 natural gas customers. PSE meets the energy needs of its growing customer base through incremental, cost-effective energy conservation, low-cost procurement of sustainable energy resources, and far-sighted investment in the energy-delivery infrastructure. For more information, visit www.PSE.com.

About Portland General Electric Company
Portland General Electric, headquartered in Portland, Ore., is a vertically integrated electric utility that serves approximately 813,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in Oregon. Visit our Web site at www.PortlandGeneral.com.

About PacifiCorp
About 1.7 million customers in six Western states look to PacifiCorp for safe, reliable electrical service. Operating as Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power, PacifiCorp is one of the lowest-cost electricity producers in the United States with a generation capacity of about 10,400 megawatts of electric energy. For more information, visit www.pacificorp.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Submits Key Filings for Mill Creek Generating Station

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 26 Aug 2008 09:26:27 GMT

Butte , Mont. – August 26, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced two significant filings regarding the proposed Mill Creek Generating Station. On Friday, the company submitted its application for an air quality permit with the State of Montana and late Monday filed its request for advanced approval with the Montana Public Service Commission.

"This is a great day for the people of Montana. We are clearly on the road to getting rid of electricity deregulation,” said Rep. Henry Klock (R-Harlowton), Chairman of the Energy and Telecommunications Interim Committee.

The Mill Creek Generating Station would provide regulating resources to balance the company’s transmission system in Montana to maintain reliability and enable additional wind power to be integrated onto the network to meet its future renewable energy portfolio needs. The facility is designed to enable increasing or decreasing energy production within seconds to follow load fluctuations on the transmission system.

"This is the right project -- in the right place -- at the right time. It is exactly what MEIC had hoped would happen when we supported the bill at the 2007 legislature to allow the utility to own and control power plants," said Jim Jensen, executive director of the statewide environmental group.

“This application moves us another step toward the price stability and operational benefits that utility-owned, rate based supply can provide over the long-term,” said Bob Rowe, President and CEO of NorthWestern Energy. “The constructive work that has taken place between multiple branches of Montana government and NorthWestern leading up to the filing demonstrates that Montanans can work together to get good things done.”

Receipt of the air quality permit and PSC approval are necessary in order for construction on the proposed $206 million plant to proceed. The total capacity of the plant is expected to be approximately 200 megawatts (MW) – produced from four highly efficient “state-of-the-art” 50 MW Pratt & Whitney Power Systems SWIFTPAC® units. The company proposes to initially install three generators to meet current demand with the plant design being scalable to permit the installation of a fourth generator as the need develops to meet projected demand. The natural gas fired facility will be able to operate on ultra low sulfur diesel and potentially biodiesel in the event natural gas service is – for any reason – unavailable.

The Montana DEQ has 40 days from the receipt of a completed application to make a preliminary determination whether the permit should be issued, issued with conditions, or denied.

The Montana Public Service Commission has 270 days from the filing date to issue a determination whether the plant will be allowed into rate base. As part of the MPSC filing (D2008.8.95), the Company requested a capital structure of 50% equity and 50% debt and an authorized return on equity of 10.75%. The entire filing can be found on the MPSC web site at www.psc.mt.gov and at www.northwesternenergy.com

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:B
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Donates $100,000 to Help Lower-Income Customers in Nebraska

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 21 Aug 2008 07:27:47 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – August 21, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy today announced that it would make $100,000 available through an energy assistance grant to help lower-income customers hard hit by rising energy prices.

“Between rising gasoline and food prices, we know some of our customers are having a hard time making ends meet,” said Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy’s President and CEO. “We’re heading into the winter heating season with the prospect of higher natural gas costs so we’re acting now to provide resources for customers who have no other place to turn for assistance. We will also be working with our customers to help them manage their energy expenditures.”

The grant will be available to NorthWestern Energy customers who meet certain income guidelines, but who don’t qualify for the federal Low Income Energy Assistance Program. The criteria are still being developed, but administration will be similar to the company’s Challenge Grant program that was in place several years ago.

"I appreciate NorthWestern's commitment to helping Nebraskans with their rising energy costs," said Public Service Commissioner Rod Johnson of Sutton. "This is good news for customers."

Weatherization is a term used for home improvements that contribute to enhanced energy efficiency and comfort through better retention of heat in the winter months and cool in the summer months.

In addition to the donation, NorthWestern Energy is encouraging all Nebraskans – regardless of income – to take steps now to make their homes more energy efficient before winter sets in. The company also plans to make available free home weatherization kits to natural gas customers this fall. Kits will be available to customers who haven’t previously received a kit from NorthWestern and will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The schedule of events will be announced soon.

NorthWestern offers an online service called “Calc-U-Pal” that helps residential customers determine cost effective energy efficiency measures. The calculator and information on NorthWestern billing payment programs can be found at www.northwesternenergy.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Donates $150,000 to Help Lower-Income Customers in South Dakota

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:32:07 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – August 20, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy today announced that it would make $150,000 available through an energy assistance grant to help lower-income customers hard hit by rising energy prices.

“Between rising gasoline and food prices, we know some of our customers are having a hard time making ends meet,” said Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy’s President and CEO. “We’re heading into the winter heating season with the prospect of higher natural gas costs so we’re acting now to provide resources for customers who have no other place to turn for assistance. We will also be working with our customers to help them manage their energy expenditures.”

The grant will be available to NorthWestern Energy customers who meet certain income guidelines, but who don’t qualify for the federal Low Income Energy Assistance Program. The criteria are still being developed, but administration will be similar to the company’s Challenge Grant program that was in place several years ago.

”When times get tough, it’s a long held tradition in South Dakota for neighbors to help out neighbors,” said Gov. Mike Rounds. “We appreciate NorthWestern Energy’s offer of support to these families in need.”

“My fellow commissioners and I offer congratulations and gratitude to NorthWestern Energy for this generous outreach effort,” said South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Chairman Gary Hanson. “This donation will be a lifeline of assistance to a number of South Dakota families. I am especially pleased with the empathy and compassion NorthWestern Energy has exhibited by this gesture,” he continued.

Weatherization is a term used for home improvements that contribute to enhanced energy efficiency and comfort through better retention of heat in the winter months and cool in the summer months.

In addition to the donation, NorthWestern Energy is encouraging all South Dakotans – regardless of income – to take steps now to make their homes more energy efficient before winter sets in. The company also plans to distribute free home weatherization kits to natural gas customers in several communities in September. Kits will be available to customers who haven’t previously received a kit from NorthWestern and will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis. The schedule of events will be announced soon.

NorthWestern offers an online service called “Calc-U-Pal” that helps residential customers determine cost effective energy efficiency measures. The calculator and information on NorthWestern billing payment programs can be found at www.northwesternenergy.com.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-1054
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Donates $500,000 to Help Low Income Customers in Montana

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:55:31 GMT

Butte , Mont. – August 18, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy today announced three donations totaling a half-million dollars to help low income customers in Montana pinched by rising energy costs. NorthWestern is donating $200,000 towards home weatherization for low-income residents through Governor Brian Schweitzer’s Warm Homes - Warm Hearts program; $200,000 to Energy Share of Montana and $100,000 to the Montana Food Bank Network.

“We understand that rising energy prices are pinching Montanans and those with the lowest incomes are amongst the hardest hit because they typically live in homes that are the least energy efficient,” said Bob Rowe, NorthWestern Energy’s President and CEO. “We’re pleased to join with the Governor in helping to reduce the energy use for these residents for years to come while providing much needed funds for emergency relief services.”

“Montanans have a can do spirit in time of need and I appreciate this donation from NorthWestern Energy,” said Governor Schweitzer. “The upcoming winter season with the significant increase in the cost of energy is rapidly approaching a crisis for many of our less fortunate neighbors. By making Montanans’ homes more energy efficient, there will be a lasting impact on these families and bring them hope that they will be warm during the cold.”

“We’re absolutely delighted to have additional resources to help NorthWestern Energy customers,” said Gregg Groepper, Executive Director – Energy Share of Montana. “Demand for our services was up 25% last year and for the first time ever we spent all that we had budgeted so the support couldn’t have come at a better time.” Groepper added that Energy Share’s Executive Board has agreed to chip in another $50,000 from its reserves to match NorthWestern Energy’s donation.

“Rising fuel costs have made it increasingly difficult for the Montana Food Bank Network to acquire and transport food to the 189 emergency food programs we serve throughout Montana, “ says Peggy Grimes, the Network’s Executive Director. “This donation comes at a crucial time because although we budgeted for higher fuel costs, we exceeded that budget half way through the year. We are so thankful for the foresight shown by Northwestern Energy in making these funds available. With demand increasing at local food pantries and soup kitchens as the weather gets colder, the funds will go a long way toward relieving the stress on households within Northwestern Energy’s service area and throughout Montana.”

Weatherization is a term used for home improvements that contribute to enhanced energy efficiency and comfort through better retention of heat in the winter months and cool in the summer months.

In addition to the donation, NorthWestern Energy is encouraging all Montanans – regardless of income – to take steps now to make their homes more energy efficient before winter sets in. NorthWestern offers a variety of rebate programs for energy efficiency projects and is planning a series of Home Energy events later this fall, which will include free weatherization kits for those customers who haven’t previously received a kit.

NorthWestern offers an online service called “Calc-U-Pal” that helps residential customers determine cost effective energy efficiency measures. The calculator and information on NorthWestern rebate and incentive programs can be found at www.northwesternenergy.com.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

About Energy Share of Montana
Energy Share of Montana is a private nonprofit organization. Our primary purpose is to help Montanans faced with energy emergencies meet their needs and move towards self-reliance. Since its inception in 1982 Energy Share has distributed 10.5 million dollars in energy assistance to more than 33,000 families.

About Montana Food Bank Network
The Montana Food Bank Network, founded in 1983,is a private nonprofit organization, thatsecures and distributes nearly 4 million pounds of donated and low cost food and grocery products annually to 189 hunger relief agencies throughout Montana. The Network works to meet the immediate need for food while advocating at the local, state, and national level for policy changes to help eliminate hunger and food insecurity in Montana. The Montana Food Bank Network is a member of America’s Second Harvest—The Nation’s Food Bank Network. For more on the Montana Food Bank Network, please visit www.mfbn.org

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Names Brian B. Bird to Board of Directors

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 15 Aug 2008 16:44:23 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – August 15, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that it has added Brian B. Bird as a Director of the Board effective August 13, 2008. Bird has been Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since December 2003.

Prior to joining NorthWestern, Bird was Chief Financial Officer and Principal of Insight Energy, Inc., a Chicago-based independent power generation development company (2002-2003). Previously, he was Vice President and Treasurer of NRG Energy, Inc., in Minneapolis, MN (1997-2002).

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Appoints Robert C. Rowe as President and Chief Executive Officer

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 15:16:48 GMT

Michael Hanson to Serve as Company Consultant

SIOUX FALLS, S.D./BUTTE, Mont. – Aug. 13, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced the appointment of Robert C. Rowe as President and Chief Executive Officer effective immediately as successor to Michael J. Hanson. Rowe also has been appointed to the Company’s Board of Directors.

Hanson, who has resigned as President and CEO, will continue to serve the Company as a consultant to ensure a seamless transition. “I want to thank Mike for his service to the Company and for his leadership and significant contributions to the organization,” said E. Linn Draper, Jr., Chairman of the NorthWestern Energy Board of Directors. “In Bob Rowe, we have found an excellent leader to carry on, and are pleased to welcome him to the Company. He is well known to the Board of Directors and the management team. We have the highest regard for his strategic and public policy insights as well as his judgment. He also is very well respected among federal and state regulatory authorities that are so integral to our business.”

“My past ten years at NorthWestern, including three years as Chief Executive Officer, have been very rewarding. I’m proud of what we accomplished and believe the Company is well positioned for the future under Bob’s leadership,” Hanson added. Hanson became President in August 2003 and then President and CEO in May 2005. Prior to joining NorthWestern Energy in 1998, Hanson held various positions with Northern States Power in Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Rowe stated, “I am deeply honored to be able to lead a company that provides essential services, infrastructure investment and employment in a part of the country to which I am strongly committed. NorthWestern Energy is one of the most important institutions in each of the communities we serve in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. The opportunity to help lead NorthWestern Energy and work with its exceptional employees is a natural extension of my 20-plus year career working on energy and utility matters.”

Immediately prior to his appointment as President and CEO, Rowe was a co-founder and senior partner at Balhoff, Rowe & Williams, LLC, a specialized national professional services firm providing financial and regulatory advice to clients in the telecommunications and energy industries. Rowe served as Chairman and Commissioner of the Montana Public Service Commission from 1996–2004. He also served as President of the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC). He has testified frequently before Congress and has consulted with and trained non-U.S. Energy and telecommunications regulators.

“The Board of Directors is focused on the utility business, and has a strong commitment to the states it serves. Bob shares that commitment, and will help us achieve our goals for customers, employees and shareholders,” added Draper.

Rowe will have offices in both Butte and Sioux Falls and will be spending time in each office as work demands. He will continue to reside in Helena.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Announces Earth Day Contest Winners in Nebraska

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:09:40 GMT

Kearney , N.E. – August 7, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy today announced the winners of the Home Suite Home contest. To bring awareness to customers on how they can celebrate Earth Day – everyday, NorthWestern Energy held an essay contest last spring to improve the energy efficiency in three customers’ homes by awarding them with a new appliance suite and a home energy audit. Customers were encouraged to submit their entry through the company’s Web site and at local offices. A winner has been selected in each of the company’s three-state service territories – Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska.

In Nebraska, the winners are Charles and Amy Wlofe, of Kearney. “Our committee selected the Wlofe’s because we wanted to recognize their ongoing commitment to energy efficiency,” explained Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President of Customer Care and Communications at NorthWestern Energy. “They wrote about how their family has made it a goal to upgrade their home in both looks and efficiency.”

The new energy efficient tankless water heater that the Wlofe’s will receive on September 24, 2008, will aid in updating their 100-plus year old home. In addition to the water heater, the couple will receive an energy efficient natural gas range and programmable thermostat. A NorthWestern Energy audit crew will also visit the Wlofe’s and provide them with an on-site home energy audit. Auditors will perform a gas appliance check and offer education on how lifestyle and habits affect energy use. In addition, the winner will receive a comprehensive report that details the efficiency levels in their home and the auditors will install energy efficient measures where applicable. They will receive faucet aerators, low-flow showerheads, and air-sealing materials as part of the audit.

NorthWestern Energy received approximately 900 contest entries. Schroeppel added, “We would like to thank those that submitted an entry in the home contest and encourage everyone to continue to celebrate Earth Day everyday.”

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Announces Earth Day Contest Winners in South Dakota

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:07:23 GMT

Huron, S.D. – August 7, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy today announced the winners of the Home Suite Home contest. To bring awareness to customers on how they can celebrate Earth Day – everyday, NorthWestern Energy held an essay contest last spring to improve the energy efficiency in three customers’ homes by awarding them with a new appliance suite and a home energy audit. Customers were encouraged to submit their entry through the company’s Web site and at local offices. A winner has been selected in each of the company’s three-state service territories – Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska.

In South Dakota, the winners are Wendy and Rodney Voss, of Huron. “Our committee selected the Voss’ because we wanted to recognize their ongoing commitment to energy efficiency,” explained Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President of Customer Care and Communications at NorthWestern Energy. “They wrote about how their family works to do all they can for the environment. They recycle, wash their clothes in cold water, and monitor their thermostat.”

The new ENERGY STAR® refrigerator that the Voss’ will receive on September 22, 2008, will aid in updating their 30-plus year old home. In addition to the refrigerator, the couple will receive an energy efficient washer, dryer and programmable thermostat. A NorthWestern Energy audit crew will also visit the Voss’ and provide them with an on-site home energy audit. Auditors will perform a gas appliance check and offer education on how lifestyle and habits affect energy use. In addition, the winner will receive a comprehensive report that details the efficiency levels in their home and the auditors will install energy efficient measures where applicable. They will receive CFLs, faucet aerators, low-flow showerheads, and air-sealing materials as part of the audit.

NorthWestern Energy received approximately 900 contest entries. Schroeppel added, “We would like to thank those that submitted an entry in the home contest and encourage everyone to continue to celebrate Earth Day everyday.”

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Announces Earth Day Contest Winners in Montana

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 07 Aug 2008 14:04:11 GMT

Butte , Mont. – August 7, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy today announced the winners of the Home Suite Home contest. To bring awareness to customers on how they can celebrate Earth Day – everyday, NorthWestern Energy held an essay contest last spring to improve the energy efficiency in three customers’ homes by awarding them with a new appliance suite and a home energy audit. Customers were encouraged to submit their entry through the company’s Web site and at local offices. A winner has been selected in each of the company’s three-state service territories – Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska.

In Montana, the winners are Murray and Adele McIntyre, of Deer Lodge. “Our committee selected the McIntyre’s because we wanted to recognize their ongoing commitment to energy efficiency,” explained Bobbi Schroeppel, Vice President of Customer Care and Communications at NorthWestern Energy. “They wrote about how they had already made many efforts to make their household energy efficient and green, such as insulating wherever possible, switching to compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs), and turning the thermostat down in the winter.”

The new ENERGY STAR® refrigerator that the McIntyre’s will receive on August 12, 2008, will replace their current one that is 20-plus years old. In addition to the refrigerator, the couple will receive an energy efficient washer, dryer and programmable thermostat. A NorthWestern Energy audit crew will also visit the McIntyre’s home and provide them with an on-site home energy audit. Auditors will perform a gas appliance check and offer education on how lifestyle and habits affect energy use. In addition, the winner will receive a comprehensive report that details the efficiency levels in their home and the auditors will install energy efficient measures where applicable. They will receive CFLs, faucet aerators, low-flow showerheads, and air-sealing materials as part of the audit.

NorthWestern Energy received approximately 900 contest entries.

Schroeppel added, “We would like to thank those that submitted an entry in the home contest and encourage everyone to continue to celebrate Earth Day everyday.”

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Reports Second Quarter 2008 Financial Results

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 31 Jul 2008 05:00:00 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – July 31, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) reported financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2008.

Highlights for the quarter include:

Net income improved to $9.5 million in the second quarter of 2008 compared with $2.4 million in the second quarter of 2007;
The stipulated agreement for electric and natural gas rate case was approved by the Montana Public Service Commission (“MPSC”);
A purchase and sale agreement with Bicent (Montana) Power Company, LLC (“Bicent”) to sell the Company’s 30% interest in Colstrip Unit 4 for $404 million was signed;
- The agreement allows NorthWestern to work with the MPSC to explore the viability of placing the asset in rate base instead of selling to Bicent;
- The application for consideration of rate base was filed;
- If the asset is placed in rate base, the agreement with Bicent would be terminated;
Announced a share buyback program for approximately 3.1 million shares, equal to the number of shares in the Company’s disputed claims reserve;
Moody’s Investor Service (“Moody’s”) upgraded the Company’s senior secured and unsecured credit ratings;
Refinanced $55 million of South Dakota First Mortgage Bonds at a fixed rate of 6.05% maturing May 1, 2018, resulting is an annual interest savings of approximately $.5 million;
Began trading on the NYSE Euronext (“NYSE”) under ticker symbol NWE on May 1, 2008.

Financial Results:

Consolidated net income was $9.5 million or $.24 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2008, a 295.8% increase compared with consolidated net income of $2.4 million or $.06 per diluted share for the quarter ended June 30, 2007.

Consolidated net income for the six months ended June 30, 2008 was $33.0 million, an increase of $11.4 million, or 52.8%, over $21.6 million in 2007.

“We had a great quarter where we benefited from customer growth, rate relief and colder weather than last year,” said Mike Hanson, President and CEO. “We continue our focus on core operations and are well poised to move forward on our generation and transmission growth projects.”

Consolidated gross margin for the second quarter of 2008 was $127.2 million compared with $118.4 million for the second quarter of 2007. Improvements in margin were due to regulated electric and gas rate increases, increases in volumes from customer growth and usage, and lower qualifying facility (QF) supply costs based on actual QF pricing and output. Gross margin in the regulated electric segment increased $9.1 million from the second quarter of 2007. Gross margin in the regulated natural gas segment increased $5.5 million from the second quarter of 2007. Gross margin in the unregulated electric segment decreased $5.5 million from the second quarter of 2007.

Consolidated gross margin for the six months ended June 30, 2008 was $284.0 million, an increase of $18.4 million over the first six months of 2007.

Consolidated operating, general and administrative expenses were $53.9 million for the second quarter of 2008 compared with $58.7 million for the second quarter of 2007. The decrease was due to reduced operating lease expense related to the purchase of our previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4 and lower legal and professional fees.

Consolidated operating, general and administrative expenses were $113.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2008 as compared with $121.1 million in same period of 2007.

Property and other taxes were $20.5 million in the second quarter of 2008 compared with $20.6 million in the same period of 2007. For the six months ended June 30, 2008, property and other taxes were $44.2 million compared with $41.3 million in the same period of 2007.

Depreciation expense was $21.2 million in the second quarter of 2008 compared with $20.8 million in the same period of 2007. The increase in depreciation expense was related primarily to the purchase of the previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4. For the six months ended June 30, 2008, depreciation expense was $42.3 million compared with $40.7 million in the same period of 2007.

Interest expense was $15.8 million for the second quarter of 2008 compared with $14.5 million for the second quarter of 2007, primarily related to the additional debt incurred for the purchase of the previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4. For the six months ended June 30, 2008, interest expense was $31.8 million compared with $27.7 million in the same period of 2007.

Results from Regulated Operations

Regulated electric gross margin for the second quarter of 2008 was $91.8 million, up 11.0 percent, compared with $82.7 million for the same period in 2007. This $9.1 million increase was primarily due to an annual adjustment to QF related supply costs to reflect actual QF pricing and output which was lower than our estimate, rate increases, better wholesale margin due to increased plant availability in South Dakota, offset in part by lower transmission volumes.

Regulated retail electric volumes for the second quarter of 2008 totaled 2,370,000 megawatt hours compared with 2,302,000 megawatt hours for the second quarter of 2007, a 3.0% increase. The increase was due primarily to customer growth. Wholesale electric volumes were 82,000 megawatt hours for the second quarter 2008, an increase from 33,000 megawatt hours for the same period of 2007 due primarily to increased plant availability in the South Dakota generation facilities.

Regulated electric gross margin for the six months ended June 30, 2008 increased $16.9 million as compared with the same period in 2007.

Regulated retail electric volumes for the six months ended June 30, 2008 totaled 5,005,000 megawatt hours, an increase of 3.5% as compared with the same period in 2007. Regulated wholesale electric volumes for the first six months in 2008 were 131,000 megawatt hours, an increase from 65,000 megawatt hours in the same period in 2007.

Regulated natural gas gross margin was $30.6 million for the second quarter of 2008 compared with $25.1 million for the second quarter in 2007. The increase was primarily due to increased volumes due to colder weather and 1.3% customer growth along with rate increases.

Regulated retail natural gas volumes were 6,055,000 dekatherms for the second quarter of 2008, an increase of 26.8% compared with 4,775,000 dekatherms for the same period in 2007. The increase in volumes was primarily due to colder weather and customer growth.

Regulated natural gas gross margin for the first six months of 2008 was $81.0 million compared with $68.1 million for the same period in 2007. The increase was primarily due to increased volumes due to colder weather and 1.3% customer growth along with rate increases.

Regulated retail natural gas volumes were 20,227,000 dekatherms for the first six months of 2008 compared with 17,811,000 dekatherms for the same period in 2007.

Results from Unregulated Operations

Gross margin from unregulated electric operations was $4.9 million for the second quarter of 2008, a decrease from $10.4 million for the second quarter of 2007 primarily due to lower average contracted prices and higher fuel supply costs, offset by an increase in volumes at Colstrip Unit 4. In addition, the Company recorded an unrealized loss of $5.2 million during the second quarter of 2008 on forward contracts due to changes in forward prices of electricity. These contracts economically hedge a portion of our Colstrip Unit 4 output through 2009. Unrealized gains and losses will be recorded, based on market prices through the duration of these contracts; however, they will ultimately reverse as the power is delivered.

Unregulated electric volumes were 416,000 megawatt hours in the second quarter of 2008 compared with 307,000 megawatt hours in the same period in 2007. Electric volumes at Colstrip Unit 4 increased primarily due to increased plant availability.

Unregulated electric gross margin for the six months ended June 30, 2008 decreased $10.1 million as compared with the same period in 2007.

Unregulated retail electric volumes for the six months ended June 30, 2008 totaled 891,000 megawatt hours, an increase of 21.2% as compared with the same period in 2007.

Liquidity and Capital Resources

As of June 30, 2008, cash and cash equivalents were $24.2 million compared with $12.8 million at Dec. 31, 2007. The Company had revolver availability of $178.4 million at June 30, 2008 compared with $158.7 million at Dec. 31, 2007.

Cash provided by operating activities totaled $124.6 million during the first six months of 2008, compared with $136.2 million during the six months ended June 30, 2007. This decrease was primarily due to the timing of accounts receivable collections, partially offset by decreased purchases of storage gas and higher net income.

The Company used $43.1 million for investment activities during the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared with $92.2 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. Capital expenditures for the six months ended June 30, 2008 were $43.1 million as compared with $52.6 million in 2007. In addition, in 2007 the Company used $40.2 million to complete the purchase of a portion of our previously leased interest in the Colstrip Unit 4 generating facility.

The Company used $70.1 million in financing activities during the six months ended June 30, 2008 compared with $45.9 million for the six months ended June 30, 2007. During the six months ended June 30, 2008 the Company made net debt repayments of $42.9 million and paid dividends on common stock of $25.7 million. During the six months ended June 30, 2007 the Company made debt repayments of $33.9 million and paid dividends on common stock of $22.3 million.

Dividend

NorthWestern’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 33 cents, payable on Sept. 30, 2008, to common shareholders of record as of Sept. 15, 2008.

2008 Earnings Outlook

Northwestern reaffirms its estimate for earnings per share in 2008 to be in the range of
$1.60 - $1.75 per fully diluted share. The guidance assumptions for 2008 include:

Impact of rate relief in the Company’s service territories;
Decreased lease expense and increased depreciation and interest expense related to the purchase of the previously leased interest in Colstrip Unit 4;
Lower average pricing on forward sales contracts and anticipated output volumes of 1.7 million megawatt hours at Colstrip Unit 4;
Fully diluted average shares outstanding of 39.5 million; and
Normal weather in the Company’s electric and natural gas service territories for 2008.

The Company plans to update guidance, if appropriate, after the financial results of the third quarter of 2008 and when there is more clarity on the Company’s share buyback program.

Company Hosting Investor Conference Call

NorthWestern will host an investor conference call today (July 31) at 11:00 am Eastern Time (10:00 a.m. Central Time) to review its financial results for the quarter ended June 30, 2008.

The conference call will be webcast live on the Internet at http://www.northwesternenergy.com under the “Investor Information” heading. To listen, please go to the site at least 10 minutes in advance of the call to register. An archived webcast will be available shortly after the call.

A telephonic replay of the call will be available beginning at noon ET on July 31, 2008, through August 31, 2008, at 800-475-6701, access code 954803.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD—LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, the information under “2008 Earnings Outlook”. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:

potential additional adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, results of operations and financial condition;
unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments, may reduce revenues or may increase operating costs, each of which would adversely affect our liquidity;
unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs, which may reduce revenues and increase operating costs or may require additional capital expenditures or other increased operating costs; and
adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in our service territories.

In addition, we may not be able to complete the proposed Colstrip Unit 4 transaction due to a number of factors, including the failure to obtain regulatory approvals, the MPSC issues an order providing the Colstrip Unit 4 interest will be included in NorthWestern’s rate base, the exercise by existing owners of rights of first refusal, the occurrence of a material adverse effect, or failure to satisfy other closing conditions. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, recent and forthcoming Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Form 8-K and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Bankruptcy Court Approves NorthWestern Corporation's Motion to Acquire Shares from the Disputed Claims Reserve

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 09:21:31 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – July 30, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (“NorthWestern”) today announced that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware (the “Bankruptcy Court”) has approved the company’s motion allowing it to make, to the holders of former debt and allowed unsecured claims, a surplus distribution in cash, rather than Stock and Accruals (as defined below), from the disputed claims reserve (the “Creditors’ Reserve”) established under NorthWestern’s confirmed Plan of Reorganization (the “Plan”) from the Company’s 2004 Chapter 11 reorganization. The Participating Creditors (defined below) will receive their pro rata share of the surplus distribution exclusively in cash unless they elect to receive their share of the surplus distribution in Stock and Accruals. The election to receive Stock and Accruals, rather than cash, must be made by August 22, 2008. Those Participating Creditors who do not timely make the election will receive their share of the surplus distribution in cash rather than Stock and Accruals. This distribution will fully distribute all shares and associated dividends and interest from the Creditors Reserve.

The Creditors’ Reserve holds 2,362,618 shares of NorthWestern’s common stock (the “New Common Stock”), which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol “NWE”, plus cash dividends and interest in respect of such shares (the “Stock and Accruals”).

The Bankruptcy Court authorized NorthWestern to repurchase shares of New Common Stock from the Creditors’ Reserve which will allow the Creditors’ Reserve to make the surplus distribution in cash. NorthWestern contemplates that the surplus distribution will be made in late August or September 2008.

The surplus distribution will be made to unsecured creditors and debt holders in Class 7 and Class 9 under the Plan (the “Participating Creditors”) except that the holders of quarterly income preferred securities will not receive any recovery under the surplus distribution but instead will receive their distribution from a separate fund under a “Global Settlement” approved by Order of the Bankruptcy Court, dated July 14, 2008.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:

potential additional adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators could have a material adverse effect on our liquidity, results of operations and financial condition;
unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments;
unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs; and
adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in our service territories.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Energy Audits Underway in Missoula Green Blocks Pilot Project

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 21 Jul 2008 10:59:52 GMT

Butte , Mont. – July 21, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy is helping the city of Missoula go green one block at a time through the city’s Green Blocks Pilot Project. Through the end of the July, NorthWestern Energy will be providing energy audits to residences that have been selected to participate in the program.

Energy efficiency measures installed as part of the Green Blocks program include weather-stripping, door sweeps, gap sealant, low-flow sink aerators, low-flow showerheads, programmable thermostats, CFLs, hot water tank insulation wrap, and insulation. Once all energy savings measures have been installed, NorthWestern Energy will track energy use for at least one year to note any benefits and changes in energy consumption. Individual and household information will remain confidential and only generalized data will be used to assess the program.

NorthWestern Energy is one of the participating utilities of the Green Blocks Pilot Project, which seeks to encourage holistic conservation practices ranging from energy efficiency to waste reduction. The Green Blocks Pilot Project provides energy audits and some energy efficiency measures free of charge to seven groups of residents in Missoula. The participating residents submitted applications for the program in May and were selected by members of the Missoula Mayor’s Advisory Group on Climate Change.

The Green Blocks Pilot Project is based on existing NorthWestern Energy’s residential energy efficiency programs that include home energy audits, rebates for home lighting, programmable thermostats, insulation, and others. NorthWestern Energy is currently expanding its natural gas heating rebate programs and expects to offer additional rebates this fall.

Home energy audits are free to NorthWestern Energy customers who heat their home and/or water with fuel from NorthWestern Energy, whose home is five or more years old, and have not had a prior audit. To sign up for a NorthWestern Energy on-site energy audit or to learn more about NorthWestern Energy’s energy efficiency rebates, call (800) 823-5995. For more information about the city of Missoula’s Green Blocks Pilot Project, visit http://www.ci.missoula.mt.us/greenblocks.htm

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Bankruptcy Court Approves Global Settlement of NorthWestern's Litigation with Magten Asset Management and Law Debenture Trust Company of New York

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 10 Jul 2008 16:30:42 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – July 10, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (“NorthWestern”) (NYSE: NWE) today announced that the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware has approved a settlement agreement by and among, inter alia, NorthWestern, Magten Asset Management (“Magten”), Law Debenture Trust Company of New York (“Law Debenture”) and the Plan Committee that resolves the litigation related to claims of holders of quarterly income preferred securities (the “QUIPS”) in NorthWestern's Chapter 11 bankruptcy case.

Under the settlement agreement, Magten, Law Debenture and the holders of the QUIPS, will collectively receive a cash payment of $23 million to be allocated amongst them in accordance with the terms of the settlement agreement. The cash payment will be funded principally by NorthWestern’s repurchase of stock held in the disputed claims reserve established under NorthWestern’s confirmed Plan of Reorganization (the “Plan”). In addition, NorthWestern will receive a reimbursement of previously incurred legal fees and expenses of $4 million under separate agreements for which no Court approval was requested.

After the distributions under the settlement agreement have been completed, there will be a supplemental distribution of all of the remaining assets in the disputed claims reserve to unsecured creditors and debt holders in Class 7 and Class 9 under the Plan, other than the holders of the QUIPS. The value of the supplemental distribution to each of these unsecured creditors and debt holders is not presently known.

“This settlement resolves the last major claim from our 2003 Chapter 11 bankruptcy case, and we will now be able to put closure on that piece of our past and focus on providing exceptional value for our shareholders in the future,” said Michael J. Hanson, President and Chief Executive Officer.

More information on all proceedings on this matter can be found at www.kccllc.net/northwestern.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:

• our ability to avoid or mitigate adverse rulings or judgments against us in our pending litigation;

• unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments;

• unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs;

• adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in our service territories; and

• potential additional adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators.

Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, recent and forthcoming Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Form 8-K and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.
We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Moody’s Investors Service Upgrades NorthWestern's Credit Ratings

web@northwestern.com — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 15:42:42 GMT

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – July 9, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that Moody’s Investors Service (“Moody’s”) upgraded NorthWestern’s ratings as follows:
                                                                        From                           To
          Senior Secured Rating                            Baa3                            Baa2
          Senior Unsecured Rating                        Ba2                              Baa3
          Outlook                                                 Stable                          Positive

The senior unsecured rating was a two-notch upgrade, and the senior secured rating was a one-notch upgrade. Moody’s cited a substantial improvement in the recent financial performance of the Company, as well as a paring of nonregulated operations.

NorthWestern is now considered investment grade on all senior secured and unsecured debt with Moody’s, Standard and Poor’s Rating Group and Fitch Investors Service.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy to File Major Facility Siting Document for Mountain States Transmission Intertie

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 15:44:46 GMT

Butte, MT – June 30, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) announced today that it has submitted the Mountain States Transmission Intertie (MSTI) Major Facility Siting Application (MFSA) with the Montana Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ).

The Montana DEQ has 30-days to complete the review of the MFSA application, and notify NorthWestern Energy of any additional information or requirements. Once the MFSA process is completed, NorthWestern Energy will proceed with an environmental review, including an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), under the Montana Environmental Policy Act (MEPA) and National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and other various approvals and permits. This process is expected to begin in late August with additional public scoping meetings scheduled in September.

“The filing of this application takes us one step closer toward the realization of the Mountain States Transmission Intertie project, which is designed to facilitate generation development in Montana,” said Dave Gates, Vice President Wholesale Operations. “Not only does this project represent a significant growth opportunity for NorthWestern, but it will provide new, which are primarily renewable, generation projects in Montana with the additional path they need to reach potential markets in the West.”

According to Rick Walsh, NorthWestern Energy’s Manager of Environmental Siting and Permitting, said NorthWestern Energy is also working with the Bureau of Land Management, Forest Service and other state and federal agencies in Montana and Idaho to conduct the Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for this project. Additional public input is encouraged in the EIS project. Construction will not begin until the environmental review process is completed -- a process which is expected to take approximately two years.

NorthWestern Energy proposes to construct, operate and maintain the approximately 400-mile 500 kilovolt (kV) transmission line to address the requests for transmission service from customers and to relieve constraints on the high-voltage transmission system in the region. The new transmission line is planned to run from a new substation near Townsend, Montana to a substation near Midpoint, Idaho. A map showing the preferred and alternative routes, along with additional information about the project, is available on our website at www.msti500kv.com.

# # #

Media Contact:
Thomas Glanzer
(877) 410-0154
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Submits Colstrip Unit 4 Filing With Montana Public Service Commission

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 30 Jun 2008 06:45:13 GMT

Sioux Falls , S.D. – June 30, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced that it has made a filing with the Montana Public Service Commission (MPSC) to initiate the review process that will determine whether the company’s ownership interest in Colstrip Unit 4 should be placed in rate base at fair market value.

Earlier this month, NorthWestern Energy announced plans to sell its 30-percent merchant interest in Colstrip Unit 4 to Bicent (Montana) Power Company LLC (“Bicent”) for $404 million. However, the parties structured the sale agreement to provide Montana regulators with what essentially amounts to a right of first refusal option similar to an existing option available to the other partners in the Colstrip plants. This enables the MPSC and various stakeholders to investigate whether it is in customers’ best interest to place the currently non-regulated asset into the Utility’s rate base at fair market value.

If the MPSC ultimately decides not to place the merchant interest in rates at fair market value, the sale agreement with Bicent provides the Utility’s regulated supply function with the option to purchase power at a discount to Mid-Columbia (Mid-C) Index prices as existing contracts are reduced and power becomes available in future years.

“This filing is intended to provide the MPSC with clear and constructive alternatives so that it can make a well-informed decision in the best interest of customers and shareholders,” said Mike Hanson, President and CEO. “We are not advocating one position over another as there are pros and cons to each alternative depending on future events. We want the MPSC to have the relevant information it needs to make its determination based on all that is known of energy markets and policy today.”

The divestiture of the company’s minority interest in Colstrip Unit 4 is in keeping with NorthWestern’s long-stated business strategy to be a purely regulated utility. NorthWestern is contractually obligated to proceed with closing the sale to Bicent if the MPSC does not make a timely determination.

A copy of the filing can be found at the MPSC Web site at www.psc.mt.gov.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Seeks Community Renewable Energy Projects in Montana

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 07:22:35 GMT

Butte , Mont. – June 24, 2008 – Montanans interested in developing small capacity renewable energy resource projects have an opportunity to get their projects off the drawing board and into NorthWestern Energy’s supply portfolio.

The company announced today that it is seeking Requests for Proposals for community renewable projects that meet the criteria set forth under the Montana Renewable Power Production and Rural Economic Development Act. The company is charged with purchasing resources under this act with a combined total installed capacity of 45 megawatts.

In order to qualify for consideration through this process the projects and potential owners must meet specific eligibility requirements. Individual projects must be an eligible renewable resource (i.e. wind, solar, geothermal, biomass, hydrogen, etc.) that is or will be interconnected to NorthWestern Energy, is limited to 5 megawatts of total capacity and meet local ownership criteria. Projects must be capable of commercial operation by December 31, 2010.

As in all other energy procurement bid solicitations, selection criteria include price and value of energy, project risk, overall environmental impacts, and credit worthiness.

A full description of all eligibility requirements and contract terms are included in the bid documents. A bidder’s conference is scheduled for July 16, 2008 and final bids are due August 15, 2008 with final selection scheduled by the end of December 2008. NorthWestern has contracted with Lands Energy Consulting, Inc. to administer the RFP. The RFP may be found on Lands Energy’s website at www.landsenergy.com/northwesternrfp.html. For more information please contact:

Lands Energy Consulting
2366 Eastlake Avenue East, Suite 322
Seattle, WA 98102
Phone: (206) 726-3695
Fax: (206) 726-3696
Email: slewis@landsenergy.com

# # #

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Announces Agreement to Sell Its Interest in Colstrip Unit 4

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 06:28:32 GMT

Includes alternative for NorthWestern to offer to rate base the asset

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – June 10, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today reported that it has entered into a definitive purchase and sale agreement (“Agreement”) with Bicent (Montana) Power Company, LLC (“Bicent”), an affiliate of Beowulf Energy and Natural Gas Partners, for Bicent to purchase NorthWestern’s approximately 30% ownership interest in Colstrip Unit 4, a 740-megawatt coal-fired electric generating facility located in Colstrip, Montana, for $404 million in cash, subject to certain working capital adjustments.

As part of the Agreement, Bicent is committing to NorthWestern 111 to 222 megawatts of power from Colstrip Unit 4, as existing long-term contracts expire, at a price of $3 per megawatt hour less than the Mid-Columbia Electricity Index (“Mid-C”), and 50 megawatts of power generated in Montana at below index for the period of November 1, 2010 through December 31, 2020.

The agreement also allows NorthWestern to work with interested parties and the Montana Public Service Commission (“MPSC”) on the viability of an alternative of placing this asset in the rate base to serve its regulated customers. If the asset is placed in rate base, the sale to Bicent will be terminated.

Michael J. Hanson, President and Chief Executive Officer of NorthWestern, said, “After a comprehensive process, we are pleased to craft this agreement with Bicent in a manner that is fair for both our shareholders and our ratepayers.”

“We are excited to be working with NorthWestern on a transaction that increases our existing presence in Montana”, said Paul Prager, President and Chief Executive Officer of Bicent. “This agreement reflects Bicent’s commitment to bring Montana customers the advantages of an increasingly competitive electric generation market,” Prager added.

As it works to close the Agreement with Bicent, NorthWestern will make a filing requesting an MPSC decision whether the Colstrip Unit 4 interest should be included in NorthWestern’s rate base at the purchase price adjusted for certain other terms contemplated by the Bicent Agreement.

“We look forward to working through the process to determine whether this asset will be reflected in rates at a price that is fair to both customers and NorthWestern’s shareholders,” Hanson stated. “NorthWestern will file with the MPSC by the end of June 2008, offering to commit its interest in the plant to serve its regulated Montana customers at a value equivalent to the purchase price adjusted for certain other terms of the Bicent Agreement.”

The proposed elements of the transaction are subject to typical closing conditions and other third party consents, including expiration or termination of the waiting period under the Hart‑Scott‑Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission approval and expiration of the right of first refusal period for the existing owners of Colstrip Units 3 and 4.

The Company expects the transaction to close or to conclude the rate base process with the MPSC in the fourth quarter of 2008.

Credit Suisse acted as financial advisor and Leonard, Street & Deinard acted as outside legal advisors to NorthWestern in connection with this transaction. Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison acted as outside legal advisors for Bicent in connection with this transaction.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

About Bicent (Montana) Power Company, LLC

Bicent is an independent power generation company headquartered in Easton, Md. Bicent and its affiliates own generation assets in Montana, California, Colorado and Georgia. Bicent is owned by affiliates of Beowulf Energy and Natural Gas Partners.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD—LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:
• our ability to avoid or mitigate adverse rulings or judgments against us in our pending litigation;
• unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments;
• unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs;
• adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in our service territories; and
• potential additional adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators.

In addition, we may not be able to complete the proposed transaction on the terms summarized above or other acceptable terms, or at all, due to a number of factors, including the failure to obtain regulatory approvals, the MPSC issues an order providing the Colstrip Unit 4 interest will be included in NorthWestern’s rate base, the exercise by existing owners of rights of first refusal, the occurrence of a material adverse effect, or to satisfy other closing conditions. Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, recent and forthcoming Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Form 8-K and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Responds to South Dakota Public Utilities Commission Staff Report on Mitchell Natural Gas Incident

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 05 Jun 2008 14:48:24 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – June 5, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today issued a statement in response to recent news stories regarding a report filed by the South Dakota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) staff recommending a fine related to a natural gas incident that occurred in Mitchell, South Dakota in March 2007.

NorthWestern believes that the request made by the PUC staff is based on a number of factual errors and an inaccurate interpretation of the company’s response to the event. NorthWestern will be seeking to put this matter before the Commission in an evidentiary hearing to ensure the accuracy of the PUC’s assessment of the event and NorthWestern’s response.

“The safety of the public and our customers is the most important thing we ensure,” stated Mike Hanson, President and CEO. “It is disappointing that PUC staff elected to speak publicly before affording all interested parties the opportunity to be heard before the Commission and ensuring that all of the facts and circumstances are accurately reflected in the record.”

NorthWestern was not contacted to provide its response to the PUC staff recommendation as part of the original article.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
1 + (866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Corporation Announces Authorization of Share Buyback Program

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 23 May 2008 08:42:11 GMT

Stockholders Vote to Re-elect Its Seven Directors
Dividend of 33 Cents Per Share Declared

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – May 23, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today reported that it plans to initiate a share buyback program for approximately 3.1 million shares, which is equal to the number of shares in the disputed claims reserve (“DCR”) established under NorthWestern’s Plan of Reorganization that was confirmed by the bankruptcy court on October 19, 2004. The amount of shares to be purchased represents approximately 8% of the shares currently outstanding. The Company plans to seek authorization from the bankruptcy court to purchase the remaining shares in the DCR. Subsequent distributions from the DCR would then be made in cash. If the Company is unable to purchase the shares from the DCR, then shares may be purchased from time to time through open market transactions or privately negotiated transactions, at the Company’s discretion. The actual number and timing of share purchases will be subject to market conditions, restrictions related to price, volume, timing, and applicable Securities and Exchange Commission rules.

At its 2008 Annual Meeting of Stockholders held on May 21, NorthWestern’s stockholders
re-elected E. Linn Draper, Jr., Stephen P. Adik, Jon S. Fossel, Michael J. Hanson, Julia L. Johnson, Philip L. Maslowe and D. Louis Peoples to a one-year term on the Board. Stockholders also ratified Deloitte & Touche, LLP as the Company’s independent registered public accounting firm for the year ending December 31, 2008.

Also on May 21, NorthWestern’s Board of Directors declared a quarterly common stock dividend of 33 cents per share. The dividend is payable on June 30, 2008, to common stockholders of record as of June 15, 2008.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD—LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including, without limitation, the information under “2008 Earnings Outlook”. Forward-looking statements often address our expected future business and financial performance, and often contain words such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “seeks,” or “will.” These statements are based upon our current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof. Our actual future business and financial performance may differ materially and adversely from those expressed in any forward-looking statements as a result of various factors and uncertainties, including, but not limited to:
• our ability to avoid or mitigate adverse rulings or judgments against us in our pending litigation;
• unanticipated changes in availability of trade credit, usage, commodity prices, fuel supply costs or availability due to higher demand, shortages, weather conditions, transportation problems or other developments;
• unscheduled generation outages or forced reductions in output, maintenance or repairs;
• adverse changes in general economic and competitive conditions in our service territories; and
• potential additional adverse federal, state, or local legislation or regulation or adverse determinations by regulators.

Our Annual Report on Form 10-K, recent and forthcoming Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, recent Current Reports on Form 8-K and other Securities and Exchange Commission filings discuss some of the important risk factors that may affect our business, results of operations and financial condition.

We undertake no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
(866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy to Ring in Trading on NYSE Tomorrow

web@northwestern.com — Mon, 19 May 2008 14:33:02 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – May 19, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) began trading on the New York Stock Exchange as of May 1, but will formally celebrate its move tomorrow when company representatives ring the opening bell at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time.

NorthWestern Energy’s President and CEO Mike Hanson also is scheduled to appear on the business television network CNBC tomorrow morning to discuss the company’s growth strategy and vision for the future.

NorthWestern’s Annual Meeting will be held Wednesday, May 21, in New York.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Claudia Rapkoch
1 + (866) 622-8081
claudia.rapkoch@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

Second-Annual NorthWestern Energy Home Suite Home Contest

web@northwestern.com — Fri, 09 May 2008 15:25:42 GMT

Butte , Mont./Huron, S.D. – May 9, 2008 – NorthWestern Energy in partnership with ENERGY STAR® recently launched the second-annual NorthWestern Energy Home Suite Home contest. To bring awareness to customers on how they can celebrate Earth Day – everyday, NorthWestern Energy will improve the energy efficiency in three customers’ homes by awarding them with a new appliance suite and energy improvement measures, such as compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs).

A winner will be selected in each of the company’s three service territories – Montana, Nebraska and South Dakota. Last year, winners were selected in Helena, Mont.,
Aberdeen, S.D., and Grand Island, Neb.

Customers are encouraged to enter by logging on to the company’s Web site: www.northwesternenergy.com and filling out a short form. June 4, 2008, at 5 p.m. (MDT) is the deadline for submitting entries.

“Winners will be chosen based upon the essay they submit, which explains why they think their home should be chosen,” explained Brandy Powers, communications coordinator for NorthWestern Energy. “So far we’ve received about 500 entries.”

There are two separate home appliance suites that will be rewarded, dependent upon if the customer receives electric or natural gas service. If the customer receives both natural gas and electric services, they will have their choice of which package they would like to receive.

The appliance suite for an electric customer consists of: an ENERGY STAR refrigerator with dispenser; an ENERGY STAR clothes washer; and an electric clothes dryer. The appliance suite for a natural gas customer consists of: a gas range; an option of either a 50-gallon hot water heater, or a natural gas tankless hot water tank; and an ENERGY STAR programmable thermostat.

Regardless of service type, winners also will receive an on-site home energy audit. Energy auditors will perform a gas appliance inspection for customers whose gas is delivered by NorthWestern Energy. The auditors will perform a blower door analysis to demonstrate areas of air leakage, and offer customers education on how lifestyle and habits affect energy use. In addition, the winner will receive a report specific to their home and energy use habits and the auditors will install energy efficient measures where applicable.

Contest ends – June 4, 2008 at 5 p.m.

For complete contest rules, visit www.northwesternenergy.com. Customers may enter the contest through the NorthWestern Energy Web site, or by picking up an entry form from a local NorthWestern office, or by calling (888) 467-2669 in Montana and (800) 245-6977 in South Dakota/Nebraska.

Media Contact:
Tom Glanzer
1 + (866) 622-8081
tom.glanzer@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Energy Names Miggie E. Cramblit as Vice President, General Counsel and Corporate Secretary

web@northwestern.com — Thu, 01 May 2008 16:41:42 GMT

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – May 1, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NYSE: NWE) today announced the appointment of Miggie E. Cramblit as vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary effective May 5, 2008.

In her new role, Cramblit will assume the responsibilities previously held by Tom Knapp. In light of the Company’s focus on operations and growth in its core utility territory, the decision was made to have the general counsel based in Sioux Falls, S.D. Mr. Knapp and his family were unable to make the move, so he stepped down as general counsel and corporate secretary.

“Tom has been with NorthWestern Energy for five years. During this critical time in our history, Tom has done a good job for us in his role as general counsel,” said Mike Hanson, NorthWestern Energy’s president and CEO. “NorthWestern has benefited greatly from his work ethic, insight and guidance. He will continue to assist us in an advisory capacity while Miggie transitions into her new position.”

Cramblit, 52, brings almost 25 years of utility industry legal and business experience. Prior to joining NorthWestern Energy, Cramblit was the senior vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary for the DPL Inc. and its primary subsidiary, The Dayton Power and Light Company. She also previously was vice president, general counsel and corporate secretary for Reliant Energy Minnegasco (now CenterPoint Energy Minnesota Region).

“Miggie brings a wealth of talent and experience to this job,” Hanson added. “She has experience in regulatory law practices including SEC, Sarbanes Oxley, environmental, federal and state energy regulation, and insurance. She also has served as corporate secretary for both private and NYSE companies and has proven experience in the utility industry. We believe she will be a good fit with NorthWestern Energy’s culture.”

Cramblit holds a Juris Doctorate from Hamline University School of Law, in St. Paul, Minn.

About NorthWestern Energy
NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. For more information about NorthWestern Energy, visit our Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Bobbi Schroeppel
(866) 622-8081
bobbi.schroeppel@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com

NorthWestern Responds to Montana Public Service Commission Potential Court Action on Colstrip

web@northwestern.com — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 16:42:46 GMT

Sioux Falls, S.D. – April 29, 2008 – NorthWestern Corporation d/b/a NorthWestern Energy (NASDAQ-GS: NWEC) responds to the Montana Public Service Commissions (“MPSC”) announcement that it is considering legal action to stop a sale of the Company’s 222 MW unregulated interest in the 740 MW Colstrip 4 coal-fired electric generation unit (“Colstrip 4”).

NorthWestern, in an effort to be open and transparent, previously announced that it was engaging in a strategic review of the value and potential options for Colstrip 4. The MPSC, concerned about the future price and source of electricity for Montanans, today issued a press release indicating they will consider possible court action to stop a potential sale of Colstrip 4.

Customers are already receiving the benefit of half of NorthWestern’s interest in Colstrip 4 through power supply contracts that are significantly below market. Analysis to date indicates that it may not be in the customers’ best interest to place Colstrip 4 in rate base. Under the current supply contracts, Montana customers are not responsible for any future, currently unknown, environmental costs related to carbon emission. These costs could be significant.

NorthWestern agrees with the MPSC that ensuring adequate and reasonably priced electric supply for its Montana customers is a top priority. The Company wants to assure its Montana customers that it has dedicated energy supply professionals whose focus is working to meet the current and future electric supply needs of our Montana customers at fair and reasonable prices.

NorthWestern is disappointed in the Commission’s announcement today. Colstrip 4 has never been in rate base, and in 1985 the Commission waived its authority over Colstrip 4. The Company has been forthright in its discussions with the Commission regarding its Colstrip 4 process.

NorthWestern has worked hard to build positive relations with the MPSC and the citizens of Montana. The Company remains willing to discuss the facts, but a lawsuit would be unnecessary, counter-productive and without legal basis.

The Company intends to complete its evaluation of strategic options for Colstrip 4 while providing reasonably priced and environmentally responsible power for consumers and fair and reasonable returns for our shareholders.

About NorthWestern Energy

NorthWestern Energy is one of the largest providers of electricity and natural gas in the Upper Midwest and Northwest, serving approximately 650,000 customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska. More information on NorthWestern Energy is available on the Company's Web site at www.northwesternenergy.com.

Media Contact:
Bobbi Schroeppel
1 + (866) 622-8081
bobbi.schroeppel@northwestern.com

Investor Relations Contact:
Dan Rausch
(605) 978-2902
daniel.rausch@northwestern.com