Clean Wisconsin is calling on Alliant Energy save its customers money while investing in clean, safe energy. According to testimony filed by Clean Wisconsin with the Public Service Commission (PSC), Alliant Energy could use available federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act to finance closure of the Edgewater Unit 5 coal-fired power plant in Sheboygan, Wis., saving its ratepayers more than $168 million. That money could be reinvested in nearly 150 megawatts of clean, solar generation.
“This would provide good-paying jobs, help Wisconsin meet its clean energy goals, and save customers money,” says Clean Wisconsin attorney Brett Korte.
Clean Wisconsin filed the testimony last week in response to Alliant Energy’s rate increase proposal, which is being reviewed by the PSC. The Commission is holding two public hearings on the proposal on Wednesday, September 13.
Alliant Energy, also known as Wisconsin Power and Light, is facing customer backlash over its plan to change the way it credits customers for energy produced by rooftop solar. Alliant is asking the PSC to approve a complex and confusing program that would create uncertainty for homeowners and solar installers, and it could result in higher bills for solar system owners and longer payback periods for families and small businesses. Alliant Energy’s proposal would even charge system owners for some of the solar energy they provide to the grid.
“Instead of putting up barriers to clean energy adoption, Alliant Energy could be using federal money that’s out there to help speed up our transition away from fossil fuels,” Korte says. “If Alliant Energy doesn’t act on its own, we are hopeful the PSC will direct the company to take advantage of this opportunity.”
Public comments on Alliant Energy’s rate proposal will be accepted by the PSC until October 4. Learn how you can comment here.
