The Re-Powering the Flathead project began in recognition of the following:
- Economic conditions in the Flathead and the nation are uncertain
- We currently depend on uncertain energy sources
- Wasted energy is affiliated with unnecessary expenses
- Energy use has impacts – negative and positive – on environmental and human health
Better energy management has the potential to provide:
- Reduced costs for city and county governments (savings to taxpayers)
- Reduced costs for residents and businesses
- Reinvestment in the local economy
- Growth in new and emerging market sectors
- A more secure future
- Improved quality of life and public health
In order to harness these benefits, Re-Powering the Flathead sought to understand the specific challenges related to energy use experienced locally, as well as the opportunities seen to address these challenges.