Our Company

For more than 100 years, NorthWestern Energy has been committed to delivering safe, reliable and innovative energy solutions.

We serve gas and electric to customers in the western two-thirds of Montana and eastern South Dakota. We also have gas service in Nebraska, and serve electricity to Yellowstone National Park.

We own and operate a diverse generation fleet of wind, water, natural gas and coal-fired resources and the high-voltage electric transmission system and distribution system. We also own and operate natural gas production, transmission and distribution systems.

Enriching Lives Through a Safe, Sustainable Energy Future

A map showing NorthWestern Energy's service territory in Montana, Nebraska and South Dakota.

Enriching Lives Through a Safe, Sustainable Energy Future

NorthWestern Energy has provided reliable and affordable electricity and natural gas to customers in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska for more than 100 years.

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Sustainability means meeting today’s needs while planning for tomorrow’s as well. It is not just a matter of good environmental practices, being a sustainable enterprise must also incorporate social and governance best practices.

Our vision

Enriching lives through a safe sustainable energy future.

Our mission

Working together to provide safe, reliable and innovative energy solutions that create value for customers, communities, employees, and investors.

Our values

SERVICE: Safety, Excellence, Respect, Value, Integrity, Community, Environment

Our Natural Gas and Electric Service

NorthWestern Energy serves 337 communities in Montana, South Dakota and Yellowstone National Park with safe and reliable electricity. We serve natural gas to 202 communities in Montana, South Dakota and Nebraska.

Our Hydro Facilities

Our carbon-free hydro system is the foundation of our energy generation portfolio in Montana. In 2023, 35.7% of our electricity for Montana customers came from our hydro facilities.

Giving Back to Our Communities

NorthWestern Energy is committed to being a good corporate citizen of all the communities we serve. In 2023, we gave nearly $2 million in charitable donations and community support.

Delivering a Bright Future

Employee Noel Jacobson wears a hard hat and smiles in Power Park.

Delivering a Bright Future

We won't stop working until the future is as bright as it can be.

Where Does Your Energy Come From?

We provide safe, reliable energy through a balanced mix of clean energy and traditional resources.
Cochrane Dam on the Missouri River

Cochrane Dam will be open for public crossing on June 18

Date: Jun 18, 2022

TYPE: Event

Cochrane Dam, located on the Missouri River outside of Great Falls, will be open to bicyclists and hikers to cross the river on Saturday, June 18, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Cochrane Dam can be accessed via:

 Lewis & Clark Trailhead

  • A 3.6 mile hike/ride starting on the paved trail going towards the crooked falls overlook and then following the marked trails to the dam.  Trail is moderate in difficulty. 
  • A 3.5 mile hike/ride following the marked trails the entire way.  This is a dirt single track trail and features rolling hills and an elevation change of 300-400 feet.  Trail is moderate in difficulty.

Rainbow Trailhead

  • A 2.5 mile hike/ride from Rainbow Trailhead on the gravel service road, with rolling hills and 100-200 feet of elevation change.  This road is traveled on by NorthWestern Energy vehicles, please travel single file and stay to the right to stay out of their traffic. 
  • A 3.7mile hike/ride from Rainbow Trailhead onto the River’s Edge trail, with 300-400 feet of elevation change, rolling hills and some single-track spots.  Please be mindful of other trail users, take turns and descents slowly. 

This event is subject to change. For more information contact Giant Springs State Park at 406-727-1212 or email emma.gaylo@mt.gov