Daines: Keystone Construction Will Lead to Lower Montana Utility Rates

Statement

The Keystone XL pipeline doesn't just mean jobs--it means lower utility rates for many northeastern Montana residents.

That's the message Congressman Steve Daines shared today on the House floor, as he once again pressed President Obama to expeditiously approve the permit for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline.

During his recent statewide natural resources tour, Daines met with the Glasgow-based NorVal Electric Cooperative, where he learned that the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline could help NorVal keep utility rates steady for its customers over the next ten years.

"We all know the tremendous economic impact that the Keystone pipeline would have and the jobs that would be created. But when I was in Glasgow, Montana, I learned of a relatively unknown benefit as a result of the pipeline," Daines stated. "You see, NorVal Electric Co-Op in Glasgow is slated to supply electricity to one of the Keystone XL pump stations. If the pipeline is built, this rural electric co-op will be able to spread their cost burdens with the pipeline, and consequently hold rates steady for their 3000-plus Montana customers. But if the pipeline is not approved, they told me that NorVal customers will see upwards of a 40 percent increase in their utility rates over the next ten years."

While meeting with representatives from Montana's resources-based industries, Daines heard repeatedly of the benefits that Keystone XL construction would hold for the state. Notably, the pipeline will take on 100,000 barrels of Bakken crude each day at an "on-ramp" near Baker, Mont.

"As I've said time and time again, this is common sense," Daines continued. "Keystone means jobs, it means another step toward energy independence, and it means lower utility rates for rural Montanans, for hard-working Montana families. President Obama, it's time to approve the Keystone pipeline."

Daines has been a vocal advocate for the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline, spearheading efforts in the House to advance legislation that would allow the pipeline to be constructed without requiring a permit from President Obama. In late January, Daines also led a group of 150 House members in calling on President Barack Obama to approve the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline in light of Nebraska Governor Dave Heineman's approval of a new route through the state of Nebraska.

Source