NorthWestern Energy is resuming construction of its gas-fired power plant in Laurel following a court decision lifting a stay on the project.

Yellowstone Judge Michael Moses lifted the stay Thursday citing recent changes to environmental law by the Montana Legislature and recent a Supreme Court ruling limiting the court remedies to state violations of permitting law.

The utility said Friday it will resume construction as soon as possible. The 175-megawatt power plant should be operational in 2024.