House Joint Resolution No. 54 requests an interim study on waste-to-energy methods and technologies in Montana. The resolution highlights the need for an all-of-the-above energy strategy to address the growing demand for electricity and the strain on landfill infrastructure due to the approximately 300 million tons of municipal solid waste generated annually in the U.S. It emphasizes the potential benefits of waste-to-energy facilities, which convert nonrecyclable waste into usable energy, and aims to explore their feasibility in supplementing existing energy resources in Montana.

The resolution outlines specific objectives for the study, including assessing the economic impact of waste-to-energy facilities on local governments and utilities, investigating various methods and technologies used in these facilities, and evaluating their social and environmental implications compared to traditional waste management. The findings and recommendations from the study are to be presented to an appropriate committee and reported to the 70th Legislature by September 15, 2026.