Why It Matters
Puget Sound Energy has announced the Battle Butte Solar Project near Rapelje in southcentral Montana, adding planned solar capacity to the company’s energy portfolio. The project is intended to support compliance with Washington state law requiring increased renewable energy and reduced fossil-fuel-generated power.
What Happened
Puget Sound Energy announced a groundbreaking for Battle Butte, a 130-megawatt solar facility planned for 1,400 acres of flat, open ranch land near Rapelje.
The company expects the project to supply enough energy for 20,000 homes and create about 250 construction jobs. Construction is expected to begin this fall, with completion anticipated in mid-2028.
Craig Pospisil said in the announcement, “Battle Butte solar represents a critical component of our clean energy strategy.”
Puget Sound Energy has operated in Montana since the 1970s and recently completed the nearby Beaver Creek Wind Project. The company hosted a Battle Butte open house in Rapelje at the end of January.
Roger Webb said the project is expected to bring construction employment, tax revenue and additional economic activity to Stillwater County while adding to Montana’s energy resources.
By the Numbers
130-megawatts — Battle Butte Solar Project capacity
20,000 — homes expected to receive enough energy from Battle Butte
250 — approximate construction jobs expected from Battle Butte
1,400 acres — Battle Butte project site
248 MW — Beaver Creek Wind Project capacity
22 — long-term clean energy projects added since 2019
more than 4,000 MW — total capacity of clean energy resources added since 2019
mid-2028 — anticipated completion date
Zoom Out
Puget Sound Energy said it has added 22 long-term clean energy resources since 2019, with total capacity of more than 4,000 megawatts. The company eliminated coal from its energy portfolio at the end of 2025.
The company’s broader supply arrangements include power purchase agreements with Energy Keepers, Inc. for hydroelectric power, an agreement with NextEra for electricity from Clearwater Wind, and a long-term contract with Clearway Energy Group for wind power from Haymaker Wind Farm.
What’s Next
Construction is expected to start this fall, followed by planned completion in mid-2028. Battle Butte will join Beaver Creek and the company’s other clean energy projects as Puget Sound Energy continues adding renewable generation.