The PSC should work with poliymakers cooperatively to form laws that have data centers "bring their own generation" or pay for their own power distribution infrastructure. The point being that data centers should not be allowed to increase electric rates because of extra invested assets being put into the rate base, so if they will be a burden to other ratepayers, policies should control for that.

The PSC should follow the law and perform due diligence to decide whether the merger is in the best interest of ratepayers. The Montana PSC is not the only state regulator looking at this and each of the state regulatory commissions should work to ensure the deal is best for most constiuents. If the deal makes sense and produces economies of scale, and has a high potential to meet capacity needs, then it could work out well for ratepayers.

The energy industry does get a lot of attention, so second to that, the waste hauling business is important to keep a keen eye on as well. It is a large industry and competition is limited. Adequate service at reasonable prices would be my goal and focus when regulating this area under the PSC's purview.