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From a news release issued by WPS:
Green Bay, WI – In July, Wisconsin Public Service Corporation (WPS), along with all other utilities that operate in Michigan, will begin collecting funds from its Michigan customers for energy efficiency programs as indicated by Michigan Act 295 voted into law in 2008. In the program, utilities are required to collect money to fund their own energy efficiency projects or to forward the money to a third party, selected by the state, who will administer energy efficiency programs.
WPS will forward the money it collects to the third party administrator, as yet unnamed by the State of Michigan.
"I know it seems like just another charge for customers to pay," said Jenny Short, WPS spokesperson. "But there can be benefits in the long run."
Short explained that while WPS-Michigan residential customers would see average additional charges of about $1.05/month, the increases in energy efficiency attained by people who take advantage of the new programs should allow utilities to avoid building costly new facilities in the future.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
A Short Guide to Setting Up a City-Scale Retrofit Program
From an introduction to a guide just released by the Center on Wisconsin Strategy (COWS) and Green for All:
Green For All and COWS have just released A Short Guide to Setting Up a City-Scale Retrofit Program. This guide provides a model for designing and implementing energy efficiency retrofitting programs on a citywide scale, with a goal of making these retrofits available to more households and providing good, entry-level jobs with career pathways that are accessible to low-income communities and communities of color.
Energy efficiency retrofits of our homes, schools, and workplaces are the first steps to building an inclusive clean energy economy by addressing climate change, putting people in careers, and reducing working families' energy bills. Despite their overwhelming economic and environmental benefits, current retrofitting programs have limited capacity and limited scope. Many are available only to income-eligible individuals, or to those with the money up-front to do the work. Furthermore, many current retrofitting programs only create low-wage, short-term jobs, rather than providing pathways into sustainable careers in construction and green building.
Clearly, a new model is needed. This guide is a tool for local organizations, business leaders, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and others in cities across the country to use to promote energy efficiency in their communities. It outlines all of the important aspects of such a program, including policies, labor standards, community coalitions, and long-term funding options.
Green For All and COWS have just released A Short Guide to Setting Up a City-Scale Retrofit Program. This guide provides a model for designing and implementing energy efficiency retrofitting programs on a citywide scale, with a goal of making these retrofits available to more households and providing good, entry-level jobs with career pathways that are accessible to low-income communities and communities of color.
Energy efficiency retrofits of our homes, schools, and workplaces are the first steps to building an inclusive clean energy economy by addressing climate change, putting people in careers, and reducing working families' energy bills. Despite their overwhelming economic and environmental benefits, current retrofitting programs have limited capacity and limited scope. Many are available only to income-eligible individuals, or to those with the money up-front to do the work. Furthermore, many current retrofitting programs only create low-wage, short-term jobs, rather than providing pathways into sustainable careers in construction and green building.
Clearly, a new model is needed. This guide is a tool for local organizations, business leaders, entrepreneurs, elected officials, and others in cities across the country to use to promote energy efficiency in their communities. It outlines all of the important aspects of such a program, including policies, labor standards, community coalitions, and long-term funding options.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Revitalizing Ourselves Through Renewable Energy
From a presentation by RENEW's Michael Vickerman (above) at the Energy Fair of the Midwest Renewable Energy Association:
Energy Policy Must Recognize Energy Realities
+ Supplies of liquid fuels peaked in 2008
+ Capital is disappearing before our very eyes
+ Energy and food are the original currencies
+ The shift from stores to flows is inevitable
+ Current economy is highly energy-intensive
+ Energy return on energy invested (EROEI) must inform decision-making
+ We can’t afford to prop up existing energy sinks or engage in wealth-draining military adventures
Three paths to choose
+ Business as usual
+ Clean green technology
+ Curtailment and community
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Getting a (plug-in) charge in Madison
From a story by Bob Hague on the Wisconsin Radio Network:
Drivers of plug in electric vehicles will soon be able to charge up on the streets of Wisconsin's capital city. Madison Gas and Electric is the first utility in the nation to make electric vehicle charging stations publicly available, with the purchase of six such stations to be installed around the city, according to MG&E's Steve Krause.
"One of the disadvantages (to electric vehicles) now is when you don't have a public charging station, is you have to either charge the car at your home, or you have to charge it a prearranged location," said Krause. "People that want to use electric cars all day long, either in town or even town to town, need a place to refuel that vehicle, and these charging stations will do that. We also have an additional bonus. All of the power that will be used to power these cars will come from renewable sources, and it will be primarily wind energy."
This is a demonstration project and for now, electric vehicle drivers won't be charged for the juice. MG&E's Don Peterson said the utility sees this as a business opportunity eventually, so they'll be collecting data. For example, how many electric vehicles are out there in the Madison area? "We really don't know how many electric vehicles are out there," said Peterson. "The estimates go to anywhere from 25 to 75 vehicles." That's a number that could be increasing fairly rapidly: Peterson noted that a Madison area car dealership is already doing a brisk trade, converting Toyota Prius hybrids into all electric plug ins.
"We see this is as a business opportunity, but right now each charging station, installed, is costing somewhere between $5,000 and $10,000," said Peterson. "We're exploring avenues for grants and additional research money, but right now this is an MG&E funded program."
Drivers of plug in electric vehicles will soon be able to charge up on the streets of Wisconsin's capital city. Madison Gas and Electric is the first utility in the nation to make electric vehicle charging stations publicly available, with the purchase of six such stations to be installed around the city, according to MG&E's Steve Krause.
"One of the disadvantages (to electric vehicles) now is when you don't have a public charging station, is you have to either charge the car at your home, or you have to charge it a prearranged location," said Krause. "People that want to use electric cars all day long, either in town or even town to town, need a place to refuel that vehicle, and these charging stations will do that. We also have an additional bonus. All of the power that will be used to power these cars will come from renewable sources, and it will be primarily wind energy."
This is a demonstration project and for now, electric vehicle drivers won't be charged for the juice. MG&E's Don Peterson said the utility sees this as a business opportunity eventually, so they'll be collecting data. For example, how many electric vehicles are out there in the Madison area? "We really don't know how many electric vehicles are out there," said Peterson. "The estimates go to anywhere from 25 to 75 vehicles." That's a number that could be increasing fairly rapidly: Peterson noted that a Madison area car dealership is already doing a brisk trade, converting Toyota Prius hybrids into all electric plug ins.
"We see this is as a business opportunity, but right now each charging station, installed, is costing somewhere between $5,000 and $10,000," said Peterson. "We're exploring avenues for grants and additional research money, but right now this is an MG&E funded program."
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Rooftops are ill-suited for wind turbines
From a fact sheet published by Focus on Energy:
Rooftop wind turbines are one of the most talked about trends in renewable energy. City dwellers and suburbanites, inspired by the spread of large turbines and intrigued by the idea of producing their own energy, are today inquiring about rooftop wind systems in record numbers.
But just how viable are these systems? Can small rooftop wind turbines ever produce enough electricity to make the investment worthwhile? Find out the answers to these and other commonly asked questions below. . . .
Will a small rooftop turbine power my whole house?
No. Small turbines can only produce small quantities of electricity due to their small rotors.
Rooftops are ill-suited to harness the wind regardless of their location due to the trees and buildings surrounding a home. Rooftops in the city are particularly difficult places to harness the breeze. Not only are cities less windy than the countryside, but the air is turbulent because of trees and the variation in heights of buildings. Turbulence can wear out a turbine and reduce its life expectancy.
One analysis showed that a common type of rooftop turbine (being tested by Madison Gas Electric) "had generated about 45 kWh in about eight months (in a year about 65 kWh). The average single family WI home uses 10,000 kWh/year. Are you ready to live on 65 kWh/year?"
Rooftop wind turbines are one of the most talked about trends in renewable energy. City dwellers and suburbanites, inspired by the spread of large turbines and intrigued by the idea of producing their own energy, are today inquiring about rooftop wind systems in record numbers.
But just how viable are these systems? Can small rooftop wind turbines ever produce enough electricity to make the investment worthwhile? Find out the answers to these and other commonly asked questions below. . . .
Will a small rooftop turbine power my whole house?
No. Small turbines can only produce small quantities of electricity due to their small rotors.
Rooftops are ill-suited to harness the wind regardless of their location due to the trees and buildings surrounding a home. Rooftops in the city are particularly difficult places to harness the breeze. Not only are cities less windy than the countryside, but the air is turbulent because of trees and the variation in heights of buildings. Turbulence can wear out a turbine and reduce its life expectancy.
One analysis showed that a common type of rooftop turbine (being tested by Madison Gas Electric) "had generated about 45 kWh in about eight months (in a year about 65 kWh). The average single family WI home uses 10,000 kWh/year. Are you ready to live on 65 kWh/year?"
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Outdated transmission system stalls progress on wind power
From a Gannett news article by Larry Bivins published in the Fond du Lac Reporter:
WASHINGTON — Wind has become the nation's most viable renewable energy option, and industry experts see plenty of potential in Wisconsin as policymakers demand that a larger percentage of energy come from wind, the sun and other clean-energy sources.
Last year, the state had the fourth highest rate of growth in wind capacity with the addition of three large wind projects, according to the American Wind Energy Association. The state now has 448 megawatts of wind power capacity.
Three major wind projects are in Fond du Lac County: Forward Wind Energy Center, Blue Skies Green Fields and Cedar Ridge Wind Farm.
But as support builds for wind and other renewable options, a major question remains: how to move electricity from the wind-swept prairies where it's generated to the big cities where it's needed.
Experts agree that the network of wires that move electricity from power plants to private homes and pubic buildings is old and unreliable. Adding renewable energy to the load would likely be too much for the system to handle.
Already, more than 70,000 megawatts of wind projects in the Upper Midwest are on hold because of insufficient transmission capacity, according to the AWEA. That could provide electricity for at least 14 million households.
"Transmission is really the glass ceiling for renewable energy development right now," said Beth Soholt, director of Wind on the Wires, a coalition of wind energy advocates based in St. Paul, Minn.
WASHINGTON — Wind has become the nation's most viable renewable energy option, and industry experts see plenty of potential in Wisconsin as policymakers demand that a larger percentage of energy come from wind, the sun and other clean-energy sources.
Last year, the state had the fourth highest rate of growth in wind capacity with the addition of three large wind projects, according to the American Wind Energy Association. The state now has 448 megawatts of wind power capacity.
Three major wind projects are in Fond du Lac County: Forward Wind Energy Center, Blue Skies Green Fields and Cedar Ridge Wind Farm.
But as support builds for wind and other renewable options, a major question remains: how to move electricity from the wind-swept prairies where it's generated to the big cities where it's needed.
Experts agree that the network of wires that move electricity from power plants to private homes and pubic buildings is old and unreliable. Adding renewable energy to the load would likely be too much for the system to handle.
Already, more than 70,000 megawatts of wind projects in the Upper Midwest are on hold because of insufficient transmission capacity, according to the AWEA. That could provide electricity for at least 14 million households.
"Transmission is really the glass ceiling for renewable energy development right now," said Beth Soholt, director of Wind on the Wires, a coalition of wind energy advocates based in St. Paul, Minn.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Wind siting bill passes major legislative hurdle with strong bipartisan support
From a news release issued by Clean Wisconsin:
Madison, Wis. – Wisconsin could soon see greater growth in the promising wind energy industry after the Assembly Committee on Energy and Utilities passed Assembly Bill 256 today, a bipartisan bill that would encourage growth in the clean energy industry by replacing a chaotic patchwork of local regulations with sensible statewide standards for permitting safe wind farms.
“Wind energy holds the potential to address many of the greatest problems facing our state –it can clean our environment and reduce global warming pollution while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and creating jobs for hard working Wisconsinites,” said Amber Meyer Smith, program director at Clean Wisconsin the state’s largest environmental advocacy organization. “With so much to gain, we’re extremely encouraged that the legislature seems poised to eliminate administrative barriers holding up the development of this promising infant industry.”
As other industries struggled in poor economic times and cut workers, the wind energy industry grew immensely in 2008 – increasing its national workforce by 70 percent to over 85,000 workers. Unfortunately, while wind developers stand ready to invest in Wisconsin’s economy and put Wisconsinites to work building safe wind farms, a complicated system of over-stringent local regulations currently puts our state at a disadvantage to neighboring states, holding up more than an estimated 500 megawatts of wind farm development in the state.
Assembly bill 256 would charge the Wisconsin Public Service Commission with studying and determining safe permitting standards for wind farms, then replacing the current disorganized system that discourages the growth of the wind energy industry with sensible statewide standards.
Madison, Wis. – Wisconsin could soon see greater growth in the promising wind energy industry after the Assembly Committee on Energy and Utilities passed Assembly Bill 256 today, a bipartisan bill that would encourage growth in the clean energy industry by replacing a chaotic patchwork of local regulations with sensible statewide standards for permitting safe wind farms.
“Wind energy holds the potential to address many of the greatest problems facing our state –it can clean our environment and reduce global warming pollution while reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and creating jobs for hard working Wisconsinites,” said Amber Meyer Smith, program director at Clean Wisconsin the state’s largest environmental advocacy organization. “With so much to gain, we’re extremely encouraged that the legislature seems poised to eliminate administrative barriers holding up the development of this promising infant industry.”
As other industries struggled in poor economic times and cut workers, the wind energy industry grew immensely in 2008 – increasing its national workforce by 70 percent to over 85,000 workers. Unfortunately, while wind developers stand ready to invest in Wisconsin’s economy and put Wisconsinites to work building safe wind farms, a complicated system of over-stringent local regulations currently puts our state at a disadvantage to neighboring states, holding up more than an estimated 500 megawatts of wind farm development in the state.
Assembly bill 256 would charge the Wisconsin Public Service Commission with studying and determining safe permitting standards for wind farms, then replacing the current disorganized system that discourages the growth of the wind energy industry with sensible statewide standards.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Wisconsin residents, businesses save over $239 million annually in energy costs
From a news release issued by Governor Doyle:
MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle today announced that Wisconsin residents, farms and businesses have saved more than $239 million in annual energy costs through energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives with assistance from the Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy program. Wisconsin recently ranked fifth in the country for energy efficiency accomplishments according to a report by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.
“These energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives translate into real economic and environmental benefits for people and businesses in Wisconsin,” Governor Doyle said. “We are working hard to make Wisconsin a national leader in clean energy initiatives and energy projects that will help create jobs, make America energy independent, and protect our environment for generations to come.”
Focus on Energy works with Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. They provide information, resources and financial incentives help to help Wisconsin residents and businesses manage rising energy costs and protect the environment.
The $239 million in annual savings is equivalent to:
+ The amount of electricity consumed annually by approximately 173,000 average homes in Wisconsin.
+ The amount of natural gas consumed annually by more than 89,000 average Wisconsin homes.
+ Almost 4 billion pounds of carbon dioxide
+ The amount of electricity produced by burning 8,650 rail car loads of coal.
+ The same energy value as 4.9 million barrels of oil.
MADISON – Governor Jim Doyle today announced that Wisconsin residents, farms and businesses have saved more than $239 million in annual energy costs through energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives with assistance from the Wisconsin’s Focus on Energy program. Wisconsin recently ranked fifth in the country for energy efficiency accomplishments according to a report by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy.
“These energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives translate into real economic and environmental benefits for people and businesses in Wisconsin,” Governor Doyle said. “We are working hard to make Wisconsin a national leader in clean energy initiatives and energy projects that will help create jobs, make America energy independent, and protect our environment for generations to come.”
Focus on Energy works with Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost effective energy efficiency and renewable energy projects. They provide information, resources and financial incentives help to help Wisconsin residents and businesses manage rising energy costs and protect the environment.
The $239 million in annual savings is equivalent to:
+ The amount of electricity consumed annually by approximately 173,000 average homes in Wisconsin.
+ The amount of natural gas consumed annually by more than 89,000 average Wisconsin homes.
+ Almost 4 billion pounds of carbon dioxide
+ The amount of electricity produced by burning 8,650 rail car loads of coal.
+ The same energy value as 4.9 million barrels of oil.
Monday, June 15, 2009
World's largest energy fair held in central Wis. begins this weekend
From the Wisconsin Rapids Tribune:
The world’s largest and longest-running energy fair is being held in central Wisconsin.
Midwest Renewable Energy Association is holding its 20th annual Energy Fair next Friday through Sunday at the ReNew the Earth Institute in Custer.
It feature hundreds of workshops and exhibits emphasizing clean energy and sustainable living.
General admission for the fair is $15 each day or $35 for all three days.
A major sponsor is Madison-based Focus on Energy. It works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost-effective energy efficiency projects.
The world’s largest and longest-running energy fair is being held in central Wisconsin.
Midwest Renewable Energy Association is holding its 20th annual Energy Fair next Friday through Sunday at the ReNew the Earth Institute in Custer.
It feature hundreds of workshops and exhibits emphasizing clean energy and sustainable living.
General admission for the fair is $15 each day or $35 for all three days.
A major sponsor is Madison-based Focus on Energy. It works with eligible Wisconsin residents and businesses to install cost-effective energy efficiency projects.
Friday, June 12, 2009
Not-in-my-backyard attitude a continuing problem
From an editorial in The Country Today:
We hear it all the time in rural Wisconsin communities: "We don't want that wind farm, large dairy operation or anaerobic digester in our neighborhood."
The not-in-my-backyard mentality hasn't gone away and it isn't likely to anytime soon.
The NIMBY attitude really isn't so hard to understand. If someone lived in a peaceful rural neighborhood and that person had a choice, he or she probably would opt not to have that tranquility disrupted by a large business being built next door, whether it be an ethanol plant, a hog confinement operation or a widget factory.
It would be quite unusual to hear, "Please don't build that in my backyard, build it in my front yard!"
Within the past week, stories have crossed our desks about a large dairy project near Rosendale, a Manitowoc County wind farm and a community animal-manure digester project in Dane County.
In all three cases, millions of dollars would be invested - during the toughest economic times in about 60 years - to help stimulate the economy. Each of the projects would provide good rural jobs. . . .
So herein lies the dilemma. The economy desperately needs stimulation, and agricultural and rural projects stand ready to meet the challenge. But many of the projects face opposition.
This problem could become even more widespread in the months ahead if, as expected, President Obama and Congress designate money to accelerate renewable-energy projects. The projects that could provide immediate economic stimulation could become bogged down by a plethora of opposition and regulations.
There is no easy solution to this dilemma. It's certainly not a new problem.
But some people might have to reconsider their opposition to reasonable projects that help the country climb out of its economic doldrums. The old economic structure in this country is broken and must be replaced by a new paradigm. That new paradigm will likely include new ways to generate energy and economic wealth that we might not be used to or familiar with. But they're not necessarily bad just because they're different.
We can't always have our cake and eat it too, as the old saying goes. We can't ask for projects that stimulate the economy but then always expect them to be built somewhere else.
If we want to put people back to work and get this country's economy back in gear, some people might have to change their mind-sets.
We hear it all the time in rural Wisconsin communities: "We don't want that wind farm, large dairy operation or anaerobic digester in our neighborhood."
The not-in-my-backyard mentality hasn't gone away and it isn't likely to anytime soon.
The NIMBY attitude really isn't so hard to understand. If someone lived in a peaceful rural neighborhood and that person had a choice, he or she probably would opt not to have that tranquility disrupted by a large business being built next door, whether it be an ethanol plant, a hog confinement operation or a widget factory.
It would be quite unusual to hear, "Please don't build that in my backyard, build it in my front yard!"
Within the past week, stories have crossed our desks about a large dairy project near Rosendale, a Manitowoc County wind farm and a community animal-manure digester project in Dane County.
In all three cases, millions of dollars would be invested - during the toughest economic times in about 60 years - to help stimulate the economy. Each of the projects would provide good rural jobs. . . .
So herein lies the dilemma. The economy desperately needs stimulation, and agricultural and rural projects stand ready to meet the challenge. But many of the projects face opposition.
This problem could become even more widespread in the months ahead if, as expected, President Obama and Congress designate money to accelerate renewable-energy projects. The projects that could provide immediate economic stimulation could become bogged down by a plethora of opposition and regulations.
There is no easy solution to this dilemma. It's certainly not a new problem.
But some people might have to reconsider their opposition to reasonable projects that help the country climb out of its economic doldrums. The old economic structure in this country is broken and must be replaced by a new paradigm. That new paradigm will likely include new ways to generate energy and economic wealth that we might not be used to or familiar with. But they're not necessarily bad just because they're different.
We can't always have our cake and eat it too, as the old saying goes. We can't ask for projects that stimulate the economy but then always expect them to be built somewhere else.
If we want to put people back to work and get this country's economy back in gear, some people might have to change their mind-sets.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
PSC approves power line along Beltline
From an article by Judy Newman in The Capital Times:
A new electrical transmission line will be built across Dane County.
The three-member Wisconsin Public Service Commission voted unanimously today to approve a proposal by American Transmission Co. to erect a 345-kilovolt line that will extend from west of Middleton to the county’s eastern edge.
The plan will follow a route along the Beltline and none of it will be built underground.
A new electrical transmission line will be built across Dane County.
The three-member Wisconsin Public Service Commission voted unanimously today to approve a proposal by American Transmission Co. to erect a 345-kilovolt line that will extend from west of Middleton to the county’s eastern edge.
The plan will follow a route along the Beltline and none of it will be built underground.
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Wisconsin's clean economy: "Small and losing"
From a post on Tom Content's blog on JSOnline.com:
Wisconsin's clean-energy economy is smaller than the national average and lost jobs between 1997 and 2007, a new report published Thursday says.
Wisconsin employed more than 15,000 jobs in the clean-energy sector, according to a study by the Pew Charitable Trusts. But employment in the clean sector fell 5% during that decade, at a time the state's overall job growth was more than 3%, according to the report.
As a result, the company ranks with Maryland, Utah and West Virginia as states where the clean-energy sector is described as “small and losing.”
Despite that stark description, Wisconsin ranked well in one area, the report found. With 2,801 people employed in the energy efficiency field, Wisconsin employed more people in this area than all but five other states.
The state has attracted $46 million in clean-technology venture capital in the past three years, but even that pales in comparison with other states. Wisconsin ranks behind Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota in raising clean-tech funding -- ranking 24th among all states and the District of Columbia.
The Pew report, “The Clean Energy Economy: Repowering Jobs, Businesses and Investments Across America," found there were 68,200 businesses nationwide in the clean-energy sector, accounting for 770,000 jobs.
Wisconsin's clean-energy economy is smaller than the national average and lost jobs between 1997 and 2007, a new report published Thursday says.
Wisconsin employed more than 15,000 jobs in the clean-energy sector, according to a study by the Pew Charitable Trusts. But employment in the clean sector fell 5% during that decade, at a time the state's overall job growth was more than 3%, according to the report.
As a result, the company ranks with Maryland, Utah and West Virginia as states where the clean-energy sector is described as “small and losing.”
Despite that stark description, Wisconsin ranked well in one area, the report found. With 2,801 people employed in the energy efficiency field, Wisconsin employed more people in this area than all but five other states.
The state has attracted $46 million in clean-technology venture capital in the past three years, but even that pales in comparison with other states. Wisconsin ranks behind Illinois, Michigan and Minnesota in raising clean-tech funding -- ranking 24th among all states and the District of Columbia.
The Pew report, “The Clean Energy Economy: Repowering Jobs, Businesses and Investments Across America," found there were 68,200 businesses nationwide in the clean-energy sector, accounting for 770,000 jobs.
Tuesday, June 9, 2009
PSC Sensible Agency for Wind Rule-Making
From Wind for Wisconsin:
SB 185/AB 256 direct the Public Service Commission (PSC) to initiate an administrative rule-making process to establish statewide siting standards for wind energy projects. The bill draft requires the PSC to establish an advisory committee of diverse interests to advise the Commission on the rules. The legislature will have the opportunity to review the proposed rules prior to their publication.
+ The PSC is an independent regulatory agency dedicated to serving the public interest. The agency is responsible for the regulation of more than 1,100 Wisconsin public utilities, including those that are municipally-owned.
+ The PSC works to ensure that, in the absence of competition, adequate and reasonably priced service is provided to utility customers. The PSC has oversight on every form of electric generation in the state.
+ Alternatives to bypass the PSC are designed to introduce more delay and confusion into the siting process. Additional layers of bureaucracy only serve to reinforce the siting stalemate.
+ Under the bill the PSC would establish a unique, comprehensive review of siting issues. Any attempt to predict the rule-making is speculative at best.
+ The PSC is the agency with the expertise to provide the appropriate scientific, fact based review of issues related to siting wind energy projects. The bill does not specify any siting requirements but establishes a process to review the relevant health and safety issues.
“I pledge to you a rule-making process which will be open and inclusive...The Commission will continue to be a fair partner with local government to ensure that the siting process is equitable to all, and that decisions are made in a timely and transparent way...The PSC’s rulemaking process is as open and inclusive a process as any.”(Joint public hearing May 12, 2009)
-Eric Callisto, PSC Chairman
SB 185/AB 256 direct the Public Service Commission (PSC) to initiate an administrative rule-making process to establish statewide siting standards for wind energy projects. The bill draft requires the PSC to establish an advisory committee of diverse interests to advise the Commission on the rules. The legislature will have the opportunity to review the proposed rules prior to their publication.
+ The PSC is an independent regulatory agency dedicated to serving the public interest. The agency is responsible for the regulation of more than 1,100 Wisconsin public utilities, including those that are municipally-owned.
+ The PSC works to ensure that, in the absence of competition, adequate and reasonably priced service is provided to utility customers. The PSC has oversight on every form of electric generation in the state.
+ Alternatives to bypass the PSC are designed to introduce more delay and confusion into the siting process. Additional layers of bureaucracy only serve to reinforce the siting stalemate.
+ Under the bill the PSC would establish a unique, comprehensive review of siting issues. Any attempt to predict the rule-making is speculative at best.
+ The PSC is the agency with the expertise to provide the appropriate scientific, fact based review of issues related to siting wind energy projects. The bill does not specify any siting requirements but establishes a process to review the relevant health and safety issues.
“I pledge to you a rule-making process which will be open and inclusive...The Commission will continue to be a fair partner with local government to ensure that the siting process is equitable to all, and that decisions are made in a timely and transparent way...The PSC’s rulemaking process is as open and inclusive a process as any.”(Joint public hearing May 12, 2009)
-Eric Callisto, PSC Chairman
Monday, June 8, 2009
State's wind-power opportunities blowing away
From an article by Tom Content in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
Wisconsin's path to a greener energy future is anything but a breeze.
Optimism abounds that the wind power sector will create jobs and help reduce the state's emissions of greenhouse gases. Gov. Jim Doyle's global warming task force has recommended the state move toward getting 25% of its electricity from wind power by 2025.
And several reports are touting the promise of job creation and emissions reduction from tapping more renewable energy and energy efficiency.
A report being released Monday by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs concludes that the Midwestern economy can capitalize on its wind resource and expertise in areas such as vehicle technology and energy efficiency if the United States passes limits on greenhouse gas emissions.
Despite the region's heavy reliance on coal-fired power plants - a key source of carbon dioxide emissions - the report says: "The Midwest has too much at stake to remain inactive. Preserving the past is no longer an option. There is much the region can do to prepare for a carbon-constrained future and begin turning those challenges to its competitive advantage."
Another report last week from the conservation group Wisconsin Environment reached a similar conclusion, calling on Wisconsin to follow the lead of neighboring states and seek to get 25% of power from renewable sources by 2025. . . .
Hurdles to growth have been many, including:
Stalled projects. More than a dozen wind projects around the state have been slowed by local opposition, wind industry advocates say. . . .
But wind developers say local ordinances around the state are blocking hundreds of megawatts of projects from being built, sending investment to other states. Several wind companies based in Wisconsin are now working on projects exclusively out of state because of restrictive local ordinances that at times require setbacks of a mile or more from a wind turbine.
"That just outlaws windmills. That's what it does," said Rep. Jim Soletski (D-Green Bay), head of the state Assembly Energy and Utilities Committee. . . .
The state may have started slow, but it's making up ground as it competes against other states for an industry that clearly has big growth prospects, [Zach] Brandon [executive assistant at the state Department of Commerce] said.
"We're making it up at the right time," he said. "We're going to make sure we're tailoring our incentive dollars to these industries. That allows us to brush off the concerns of the past."
But a lot needs to be done, renewable energy advocates say.
Said Vickerman, of Renew Wisconsin: "I don't see much likelihood of utilities or developers hanging around Wisconsin in a couple years, if we don't put our permitting house in order."
Wisconsin's path to a greener energy future is anything but a breeze.
Optimism abounds that the wind power sector will create jobs and help reduce the state's emissions of greenhouse gases. Gov. Jim Doyle's global warming task force has recommended the state move toward getting 25% of its electricity from wind power by 2025.
And several reports are touting the promise of job creation and emissions reduction from tapping more renewable energy and energy efficiency.
A report being released Monday by the Chicago Council on Global Affairs concludes that the Midwestern economy can capitalize on its wind resource and expertise in areas such as vehicle technology and energy efficiency if the United States passes limits on greenhouse gas emissions.
Despite the region's heavy reliance on coal-fired power plants - a key source of carbon dioxide emissions - the report says: "The Midwest has too much at stake to remain inactive. Preserving the past is no longer an option. There is much the region can do to prepare for a carbon-constrained future and begin turning those challenges to its competitive advantage."
Another report last week from the conservation group Wisconsin Environment reached a similar conclusion, calling on Wisconsin to follow the lead of neighboring states and seek to get 25% of power from renewable sources by 2025. . . .
Hurdles to growth have been many, including:
Stalled projects. More than a dozen wind projects around the state have been slowed by local opposition, wind industry advocates say. . . .
But wind developers say local ordinances around the state are blocking hundreds of megawatts of projects from being built, sending investment to other states. Several wind companies based in Wisconsin are now working on projects exclusively out of state because of restrictive local ordinances that at times require setbacks of a mile or more from a wind turbine.
"That just outlaws windmills. That's what it does," said Rep. Jim Soletski (D-Green Bay), head of the state Assembly Energy and Utilities Committee. . . .
The state may have started slow, but it's making up ground as it competes against other states for an industry that clearly has big growth prospects, [Zach] Brandon [executive assistant at the state Department of Commerce] said.
"We're making it up at the right time," he said. "We're going to make sure we're tailoring our incentive dollars to these industries. That allows us to brush off the concerns of the past."
But a lot needs to be done, renewable energy advocates say.
Said Vickerman, of Renew Wisconsin: "I don't see much likelihood of utilities or developers hanging around Wisconsin in a couple years, if we don't put our permitting house in order."
Friday, June 5, 2009
Baseload power is an obsolete concept
In a presentation to the Wisconsin Public Utility Institute, RENEW Wisconsin's executive director Michael Vickerman reviewed wind generation's role in baseload planning. He also reviewed the perspective on baseload of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA):
+ Baseload power is an obsolete concept
+ Both baseload plants and windpower are primarily energy resources
+ From a flexibility perspective, wind is superior
+ Curtailing windpower to allow inflexible baseload plants to keep operating is inefficient, wasteful and damaging to the environment.
+ Baseload power is an obsolete concept
+ Both baseload plants and windpower are primarily energy resources
+ From a flexibility perspective, wind is superior
+ Curtailing windpower to allow inflexible baseload plants to keep operating is inefficient, wasteful and damaging to the environment.
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Wisconsin can save money by replacing fossil fuels with renewable energy
From a news release issued by Wisconsin Environment:
Green Bay, WI –Reducing dependence on fossil fuels, creating new jobs and protecting the environment for future generations are all benefits resulting from the clean energy policies adopted in Wisconsin in recent years, according to a new report released today at events in Madison, Milwaukee and Green Bay by Wisconsin Environment. The group cited the report’s findings as clear evidence the state legislature should take the next steps toward a clean energy economy.
“This report shows that we can repower Wisconsin and revitalize our economy with homegrown clean energy solutions,” said Wisconsin Environment Director Dan Kohler. “With our abundant natural resources and strong manufacturing and agricultural base, we have the perfect combination of assets to be a national leader.”
Wisconsin Environment’s new report comes as state lawmakers are gearing up to consider new commitments to renewable energy and efficiency programs. Last August, Governor Doyle’s Global Warming Task Force recommended increasing the state’s renewable energy commitment from 10% by 2015 up to 25% by 2025, as well as using energy more wisely. Legislation stemming from the task force is expected to be announced later this summer.
Green Bay, WI –Reducing dependence on fossil fuels, creating new jobs and protecting the environment for future generations are all benefits resulting from the clean energy policies adopted in Wisconsin in recent years, according to a new report released today at events in Madison, Milwaukee and Green Bay by Wisconsin Environment. The group cited the report’s findings as clear evidence the state legislature should take the next steps toward a clean energy economy.
“This report shows that we can repower Wisconsin and revitalize our economy with homegrown clean energy solutions,” said Wisconsin Environment Director Dan Kohler. “With our abundant natural resources and strong manufacturing and agricultural base, we have the perfect combination of assets to be a national leader.”
Wisconsin Environment’s new report comes as state lawmakers are gearing up to consider new commitments to renewable energy and efficiency programs. Last August, Governor Doyle’s Global Warming Task Force recommended increasing the state’s renewable energy commitment from 10% by 2015 up to 25% by 2025, as well as using energy more wisely. Legislation stemming from the task force is expected to be announced later this summer.
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Alliant decision on plants on hold
From an article by Tom Content in the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel:
Alliant Energy Corp. has delayed until next year a decision on how to proceed after being dealt setbacks in building new coal-fired power plants in Wisconsin and Iowa.
The company had earlier signaled it would announce details of its plan for new power plants this year.
But that was before a dramatic drop in energy sales in the first quarter and the increasing likelihood of legislation in Washington, D.C., that would regulate carbon dioxide emissions or beef up mandates relating to wind power, utility officials say.
New coal plants have been built or are under construction for other state utilities, but Alliant was rebuffed in its bid to build new coal plants in both Wisconsin and Iowa.
Regulators cited concerns about the prospect of global warming legislation and the cost of the plants.
"We will revise our plan to deal with the setbacks concerning our two baseload plants," Alliant CEO Bill Harvey said at the company's recent shareholders meeting. "But we'll hold off until we get a clearer picture of the economy, our sales outlook, the financial markets and the workings of Washington, D.C., concerning carbon legislation."
Industry conditions are too volatile, the utility said.
When it proposed the power plants, including one in Cassville on the Mississippi River that would have burned coal and forms of biomass such as switchgrass and wood, Alliant was banking on electricity demand continuing its long-term trend of rising each year.
But the worst recession in decades has led to a significant energy sales decline. Alliant told investors last week that the company is forecasting 10% lower sales to industrial customers compared with 2008.
Alliant Energy Corp. has delayed until next year a decision on how to proceed after being dealt setbacks in building new coal-fired power plants in Wisconsin and Iowa.
The company had earlier signaled it would announce details of its plan for new power plants this year.
But that was before a dramatic drop in energy sales in the first quarter and the increasing likelihood of legislation in Washington, D.C., that would regulate carbon dioxide emissions or beef up mandates relating to wind power, utility officials say.
New coal plants have been built or are under construction for other state utilities, but Alliant was rebuffed in its bid to build new coal plants in both Wisconsin and Iowa.
Regulators cited concerns about the prospect of global warming legislation and the cost of the plants.
"We will revise our plan to deal with the setbacks concerning our two baseload plants," Alliant CEO Bill Harvey said at the company's recent shareholders meeting. "But we'll hold off until we get a clearer picture of the economy, our sales outlook, the financial markets and the workings of Washington, D.C., concerning carbon legislation."
Industry conditions are too volatile, the utility said.
When it proposed the power plants, including one in Cassville on the Mississippi River that would have burned coal and forms of biomass such as switchgrass and wood, Alliant was banking on electricity demand continuing its long-term trend of rising each year.
But the worst recession in decades has led to a significant energy sales decline. Alliant told investors last week that the company is forecasting 10% lower sales to industrial customers compared with 2008.
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