Montana energy projects moving ahead despite downturn

October 20, 2008

Financing prospects for large-scale energy projects in Montana have dimmed with the crisis on Wall Street, but some that already are under way should proceed as planned, state officials and developers said.

Across Montana, new transmission lines, pipelines, wind farms and coal and natural gas projects are proposed or under construction.

Montana Gov. Brian Schweitzer told The Associated Press in a recent interview that several companies assured him their projects will not be derailed by the downturn. Still, he cautioned that the recent heady pace of development could end if the economic outlook remains grim and banks stay reluctant - or unable - to make large loans.

By MATTHEW BROWN - Associated Press

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