Public comments are open now through June 11 for Dawn Break Solar, a 180 Megawatt (MW) solar project paired with a 180 MW battery energy storage system. If approved, the solar project will be located in Waushara County and is planned for completion in 2029. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Show your support for this project and tell the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) why you support the approval of a vital solar project in Wisconsin!

You can use some of the listed benefits below to help you craft your message.

Dawn Break Solar isn’t just about the clean energy it will produce. The 180 MW facility in Waushara County has many benefits:

Economic Growth: Dawn Break Solar is expected to create construction jobs, as well as several long-term local jobs for operations and maintenance. Landowners will also benefit from consistent lease payments during the 35-year lifespan of the project.

Community Benefits: Once in service, Dawn Break Solar will contribute more than $31.5 million in utility-aid payments. Local governments will receive $900,000 annually, with $510,000 for Waushara County and $390,000 for the Towns of Oasis, Plainfield, Deerfield, and Hancock.

Emissions Reductions: Dawn Break Solar will reduce emissions from energy production by about 600 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 59,100 vehicles off the road for a full year. Additionally, non-GHG emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits. Wisconsin can expect more than $1.3 million in economic benefits associated with public health improvements in Dawn Break Solar’s first year of operations alone.

Submit your comments today and tell the PSC you support the approval of Dawn Break Solar. Feel free to use some of the bullet points above to craft your own unique message.

But their anticipated output would not be sufficient to serve data center projects in the construction pipeline

*Guest Blog by Michael Vickerman—RENEW Wisconsin Board Member

Construction of large solar power plants in Wisconsin will accelerate throughout the decade, thanks to a series of regulatory approvals handed down over the past 12 months. Indeed, by all appearances, solar power will dominate utility investment in new sources of electric power for the foreseeable future.

In March 2026 alone, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) approved utility requests to acquire three solar projects—two in Columbia County and one in Rock County—totaling 315 megawatts (MW). When energized over the next two years, these three plants will generate more than 600,000 megawatt-hours of zero-emission electricity annually to customers. That amounts to 0.9% of electricity consumption in the Badger State. 

As shown in Table 1 below, WEC Energy and Madison Gas & Electric will add 1.265 gigawatts, or 1,265 MW, of solar power to their generation fleets over the next three years. Construction is well underway at the Koshkonong and High Noon project sites, and ground will be broken this year on the other solar plants listed in the table.

Construction is also proceeding on a 250 MW solar plant in central Wisconsin owned by Minneapolis-based Geronimo Energy. Anticipated to be placed in service later this year, the Portage Solar plant will produce electricity for the wholesale market and sell the renewable energy credits (RECs) from that generation to Microsoft, which will soon complete construction on a hyperscale data center in Racine County. When activated later this year, Microsoft’s facility will become the largest consumer of electricity in the entire state, with a baseline demand of approximately 500 MW. Microsoft will purchase all of the RECs produced by Portage Solar to offset a portion of that facility’s electricity usage. 

Utility-owned solar generating plants often come paired with battery energy storage systems (BESS) placed within the project boundaries. These installations can store up to four hours of electricity at the battery’s rated capacity. 

At the Koshkonong project, for example, the battery system is designed to accept as much as 660 MWh of electricity generated onsite. These BESS units will enable grid operators to discharge stored electricity directly into the transmission system when demand peaks later in the afternoon and evening. 

In just a handful of years, solar has emerged as the fastest-growing in-state source of electric power, and its contribution to electricity supplies now surpasses wind and hydro combined (see Table 2). Accounting for 6.6% of Wisconsin-generated electricity in 2025, solar generation could reach the 10% threshold by 2030.

Will solar growth be large enough to offset anticipated load growth driven by hyperscale data centers? 

As impressive as solar’s growth was in 2025, it wasn’t large enough to fully offset the increase in electricity consumption that occurred that year. The other generation resource that saw a significant increase in output from 2024 was coal, whose rise came at the expense of fossil methane. Factoring in other hyperscale data centers now under construction, it will be a challenge to offset rising electricity sales with new solar generation.

As applied to retail electricity customers, the term “capacity factor” is a measure of their actual electrical consumption in a year divided by its peak demand multiplied by 8,760, the number of hours in a year. The consensus estimate of a hyperscale data center’s capacity factor falls in the 75% to 80% range. 

Compared with other customer types, hyperscale data centers impose an unprecedented level of demand on the electric grids that serve them, due to the following reasons.

• Massive scale of operations serving millions of users; 
• Expansion of AI use is driving the need for high-density computing power;
• Energy-intensive cooling systems; and
• Always-on operations requiring uninterruptible electrical service.

With the above in mind, let’s estimate the power consumption from Microsoft’s Mt. Pleasant campus that will commence operations later this year. If we assume a peak load of 500 MW and a capacity factor of 75 to 80%, electricity consumption from this particular entity would range from 3.3 to 3.5 million MWh per year, or 5% of the electricity sales recorded in the entire state of Wisconsin last year. 

It would take six solar plants the size of Koshkonong–1,800 MW in total–to offset, on a MWh by MWh basis, the anticipated consumption from just the Mt. Pleasant data center alone. When the two Beaver Dam and the Port Washington data center projects are brought into the picture, the number of Koshkonong-size projects needed to offset all four hyperscalers in the pipeline would exceed 20. 

Given that, it’s fair to conclude that the data center build-out will elevate greenhouse gas emissions from Wisconsin’s electric power industry even with a robust expansion of in-state solar power. Unless something changes on the ground, this worrisome outcome, and all the unpleasant environmental and economic consequences that it will amplify, is quite literally baked into our future.

Last Friday, April 24, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) unanimously approved an electricity rate plan for data centers and other “Very Large Customers” (VLC) in We Energies’ service territory. This decision will protect Wisconsinites from shouldering the financial burden of the energy and infrastructure costs associated with data centers.

RENEW Wisconsin submitted comments in support of this decision to protect Wisconsin ratepayers. We also asked the PSC to include considerations such as energy efficiency and renewable energy in their decision-making process. Meaning these corporations with massive financial means should, at the very least, be investing in building and operational efficiency, while also signing contracts with utility-scale solar projects.

We also highlighted the importance of these large corporations sticking to their own sustainability goals and how, through their vast access to capital, they could incorporate emerging or cutting-edge renewable energy resources to mitigate their contributions to climate change.

As our Policy Director, Andrew Kell, said in his comments to the PSC, “Data centers have adequate resources to become key innovators and provide the ‘technology push’ and ‘demand pull’ required for these programs, technologies, and infrastructure to scale up and flourish.”

While we don’t have guarantees that data centers will lead the charge on innovation as it relates to renewables, we do at least have a strong indication that the PSC will continue to protect ratepayers in future proceedings related to data centers.

“The decisions we’re making here today will not be limited to this docket,” said PSC Commissioner Kristy Nieto. “They will shape future proceedings, future investments, and the trajectory of the utility system itself.”

The PSC also determined that the energy demand threshold for a VLC to qualify for this rate structure should be reduced from 500 megawatts (MW) to 100 MW, the level at which new energy generation projects typically require PSC approval. The PSC also made it mandatory for eligible VLCs to subscribe.

VLCs will also need to fund and subscribe to portions of multiple new power generation projects, or entire projects, as they will be the driver of much of the state’s new energy demand.

We are still waiting for the final written order for this decision, but we are glad that PSC’s preliminary decisions align with what many public comments submitted stated, which is that data centers must pay the full costs of the energy and infrastructure they require.

As data center development progresses, RENEW aims to collaborate with data centers and strongly encourage them to drive and fully pay for cutting-edge clean energy resources. If data centers do in fact strive to incorporate into communities, they should help to ensure that we can create a sustainable, zero-carbon future.

Our shared home and all of its inhabitants deserve protection. It’s been said many times before, but it deserves repeating—we only have the one Earth.

For the last 35 years, supporters like you have helped us lead the charge as we fight to create a future powered by renewable energy. In that time, we’ve made a lot of progress and continue to expand our efforts to end our reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.

In 2025 our efforts to support renewables resulted in:

• 5.6 million megawatt hours of renewable energy generated
• 9 billion pounds of carbon emissions avoided
• 560,000 homes powered by renewable energy

We also helped 25 nonprofit organizations go solar through our Solar for Good grant program. This year, we’re looking to do even more to bring the benefits of renewable energy to every corner of Wisconsin.

In 2026 we have already:

• Supported two utility-scale solar projects
• Supported one utility-scale wind project
• Highlighted the value of clean energy jobs
• Advocated for data center legislation that protects Wisconsinites
• And Hosted our Annual Summit!

We’ve also seen three new utility-scale renewable projects get approved by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin! Each of these wins brings us one step closer to our goal of creating a healthy climate and an economy we can afford. And there’s so much more we hope to achieve. It is, after all, still spring. By winter, we hope our list of achievements has gotten much longer. Together, we can make it happen!

On April 21, Alliant Energy announced the unanimous approval of the Bent Tree North Wind project. The 153-megawatt (MW) wind project will include 32 wind turbines and expand on the existing Bent Tree Wind Farm, which has been operating successfully since 2011. Since the project is located in Minnesota but will send power to Wisconsin, it required approval in both states.

Upon completion, the Bent Tree North Wind project is expected to generate enough electricity to power about 50,000 homes each year. This expansion of Alliant’s renewable energy portfolio is a win for Wisconsin residents in terms of both energy affordability and grid reliability.

More renewable energy means less reliance on fossil fuels, which at times experience volatile pricing, and diversifies our energy resources. This helps keep energy prices from rising and gives us more options for keeping the lights on.

And while this project will reduce the carbon footprint of our state’s electricity production, it will also be economically beneficial to the region where it is hosted. It is expected that the local area will see $100 million in local economic benefits over the project’s 30‑year (or so) life. Some of these benefits will come in the form of tax revenue, landowner payments, and wages for the 100-150 construction jobs the project will support.

The turbines used for the project will also support the economies in the Midwest. Alliant Plans to use Nordex N133s, a 4.8 MW turbine, which has several key components constructed at Nordex’s Iowa facility.

The turbines are also designed to produce more energy per tower, resulting in less disturbance to the land hosting the project. Standing at an impressively tall 606 feet, the towers are able to support larger rotors, which in turn increases energy production and efficiency. This means more energy at a lower cost.

We’re glad we were able to show our support for a project that fights climate change, boosts local economies, and helps keep Wisconsin’s utility bills more stable. If you want to learn more about this project and some of the other things Alliant Energy has cooking, check out their efforts here—Alliant’s Wind Generation

Earlier this week, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) approved Akron Solar! This 200 Megawatt (MW) solar project will be located in Adams and Wood Counties and is planned for completion in the latter half of 2029. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Thanks to everyone who helped make this project happen, especially those who submitted comments to the PSC and told them why Wisconsin needs more solar power!

Even though we’re only three months into 2026, we are excited about the amount of progress we have already made. That said, there’s plenty more for us to accomplish this year. We hope you’re just as excited as we are to keep the momentum up and help us create a future where everyone benefits from the renewable energy revolution!

Akron Solar’s benefits extend well beyond the clean energy it will produce. If you’re not familiar with the project, below are some additional reasons why we support this project:

• Economic Growth: According to a report by Strategic Economic Research, Akron Solar will create more than 450 jobs during construction, as well as more than 14 good-paying, long-term positions in Adams and Wood Counties.
• Community Benefits: Once in service, Akron Solar will contribute more than $1,000,000 in utility-aid payments each year. Over $566,000 of this will go to the counties, while the remaining $433,33 will go to the towns of Rome and Saratoga. During its 25-year life, the project will contribute a total of at least $25million in utility-aid payments.
• Emissions Reductions: Akron Solar will reduce energy production emissions by 650 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 64,000 vehicles off the road for a full year. These emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits. Wisconsin can expect more than $1.4 million in economic benefits associated with public health improvements in Akron Solar’s first year of operations alone.

Public comments are open now through March 9 for Fox Solar, a 100 Megawatt (MW) solar project paired with a 50 MW battery energy storage system. If approved, the solar project will be located in Oconto County and is planned for completion in 2028. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Show your support for this project and tell the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) why you support the approval of a vital solar project in Wisconsin!

You can use some of the listed benefits below to help you craft your message.

Fox Solar isn’t just about the clean energy it will produce. The 100 MW facility in Oconto County has many benefits:

Economic Growth: According to witness testimony provided by David Loomis of Strategic Economic Research, Fox Solar will create 300 temporary jobs during construction, as well as more than 20 good-paying, long-term jobs across Wisconsin due to economic stimulus related to the project.

Community Benefits: Once in service, Fox Solar will contribute more than $500,000 in utility-aid payments each year. $283,333 of this will go to Oconto County, while the remaining $216,667 will go to the Town of Morgan. During its 25-year life, the project will contribute more than $12 million in utility-aid payments.

Emissions Reductions: Fox Solar will reduce energy production emissions by 304 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 29,993 vehicles off the road for a full year. Additionally, non-GHG emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits. Wisconsin can expect more than $690,000 in economic benefits associated with public health improvements in Fox Solar’s first year of operations alone.

Submit your comments today and tell the PSC you support the approval of Fox Solar. Feel free to use some of the bullet points above to craft your own unique message.

Wisconsin Power and Light (Alliant Energy) plans to expand its Bent Tree Wind Farm with the Bent Tree North Wind Farm project. Though located in Minnesota, the project will provide power for Alliant Energy customers here in Wisconsin. RENEW Wisconsin is advocating for approval of this project both in Minnesota and here in Wisconsin, as Alliant Energy requires approval from both the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission and the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.

In its first full year of electricity production, Bent Tree North Wind Farm will produce about 550,000 Megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity. This is enough to power 55,000 Wisconsin households and reduce emissions produced from energy production by more than 865 million pounds of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) each year. This amount of CO2 would be like taking more than 85,500 vehicles off the road.

Along with CO2 emissions, there are a slew of pollutants that this project will keep out of the air we breathe. As a result, Wisconsin can expect over $1.8 million in economic benefits associated with public health improvements in the first year of Bent Tree North Wind’s operations.

Similar to Wisconsin, Minnesota communities that host utility-scale energy projects benefit from these projects. Bent Tree North will add 150 Megawatts (MW) to the already existing Bent Tree Wind Farm, a 201 MW project. In Minnesota, wind projects are subject to a Wind Energy Production Tax. At about $19,000 per turbine, Bent Tree North will add nearly $650,000 in revenue to be split among Steele, Waseca, and Freeborn Counties. Additional financial benefit will go to the landowners who are leasing their land to make this project possible.

The construction of the project is expected to create 100 to 150 full-time jobs until the project is operational. Additionally, construction workers will contribute to local spending for housing, fuel, meals, and supplies, and construction materials such as concrete and gravel are often sourced locally or regionally.

Though we don’t typically extend our advocacy beyond the borders of our state, this is a great opportunity for both Wisconsin and Minnesota, even if we can’t see eye-to-eye on where Paul Bunyan’s Axe really belongs. Rivalries aside, we look forward to seeing this project approved and will provide an update when we know more!

Public comments are open now through February 23 for Muddy Creek Solar, a 322 Megawatt (MW) solar project paired with a 300 MW battery energy storage system. If approved, the solar project will be located in Dunn County and is planned for completion in 2029. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Show your support for this project and tell the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) why you support the approval of a vital solar project in Wisconsin!

You can use some of the listed benefits below to help you craft your message.

(update: public comments for this project have now closed. We will share an update when the PSC announces their decision)

Muddy Creek Solar isn’t just about the clean energy it will produce. The 322 MW facility in Dunn County has many benefits:

• Economic Growth: According to witness testimony provided by David Loomis of Strategic Economic Research, Muddy Creek Solar will create more than 800 temporary jobs during construction, as well as more than 52 good-paying, long-term jobs across Wisconsin due to economic stimulus related to the project.
• Community Benefits: Once in service, Muddy Creek Solar will contribute more than $1,605,000 in utility-aid payments each year. $909,500 of this will go to Dunn County, while the remaining $695,000 will go to the Town of Spring Brook. During its 25-year life, the project will contribute a total of over $40 million in utility-aid payments.
• Emissions Reductions: Muddy Creek Solar will reduce energy production emissions by 954 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 94,000 vehicles off the road for a full year. Additionally, non-GHG emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits. Wisconsin can expect more than $2 million in economic benefits associated with public health improvements in Muddy Creek Solar’s first year of operations alone.

Submit your comments today and tell the PSC you support the approval of Muddy Creek Solar. Feel free to use some of the bullet points above to craft your own unique message.

On Wednesday, January 21, 2026, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) approved the Emerald Bluffs Solar Project, a 225 Megawatt (MW) solar project in Juneau County. This project is planned for completion in the latter half of 2027. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Thanks to the support from the public, we were able to get this project across the finish line!

Emerald Bluffs is another exciting step in the right direction as we work to expand renewable energy across the state. Wisconsin has now reached a point where we have 2089 MW of solar in operation, nearly 4,000 MW approved and in the development phase, and more than 1,000 MW of solar seeking approval from the PSC. Altogether, we’re hopeful that we’ll have nearly 7,500 MW of solar online across Wisconsin in the near future. Together, we can keep this momentum going.

Emerald Bluffs Solar Project’s Benefits Go Beyond Renewable Energy:

Economic Growth: Emerald Bluffs will create nearly 1,000 jobs during construction, as well as more than 20 good-paying, long-term operations and maintenance positions.

Community Benefits: Once in service, Emerald Bluffs will contribute more than $1,125,000 in utility-aid payments each year. Over $637,000 of this will go to Juneau County, while the remaining $487,500 will go to the towns of Lemonweir and Seven Mile Creek. During its 35-year life, the project will contribute a total of $39.375 million in utility-aid payments.

Emissions Reductions: Emerald Bluffs will reduce energy production emissions by 746 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 73,500 vehicles off the road for a full year. These emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits.

Public comments are open now through December 12 for Akron Solar, a 200 Megawatt (MW) solar project. If approved, the solar project will be located in Adams and Wood Counties and is planned for completion in the latter half of 2029. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Show your support for this project and tell the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) why you support the approval of a vital solar project in Wisconsin!

You can use some of the listed benefits below to help you craft your message.

Akron Solar isn’t just about the clean energy it will produce. The 200 MW facility in Adams and Wood Counties has many benefits:

• Economic Growth: According to a report by Strategic Economic Research, Akron Solar will create more than 450 jobs during construction, as well as more than 14 good-paying, long-term positions in Adams and Wood Counties. 
• Community Benefits: Once in service, Akron Solar will contribute more than $1,000,000 in utility-aid payments each year. Over $566,000 of this will go to the counties, while the remaining $433,33 will go to the towns of Rome and Saratoga. During its 25-year life, the project will contribute a total of at least $25million in utility-aid payments. 
• Emissions Reductions: Akron Solar will reduce energy production emissions by 650 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 64,000 vehicles off the road for a full year. These emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits. Wisconsin can expect more than $1.4 million in economic benefits associated with public health improvements in Akron Solar’s first year of operations alone.

Submit your comments today and tell the PSC you support the approval of Akron Solar. Feel free to use some of the bullet points above to craft your own unique message.

On Thursday, December 4, 2025, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) approved Porchlight Solar, a 163.8 Megawatt (MW) solar project paired with a 50 MW battery in Portage County. In their verbal decision, PSC commissioners noted that the team behind the project made a good effort to work with community members on this project. The commission also noted the many positive comments that came through in support of this project, including RENEW’s. If you submitted a comment in support of this project, thank you for helping us get this project across the finish line!

Porchlight Solar is another exciting step forward as we work to meet our clean energy goals. Wisconsin has now reached a point where we have 2089 MW of solar in operation, 3738 MW approved and in the development phase, and more than 1,600 MW of solar seeking approval from the PSC. Altogether, we’re hopeful that we’ll have nearly 7,500 MW of solar online across Wisconsin in the near future. Together, we can keep this momentum going.

Porchlight Solar’s Benefits Go Beyond Clean Energy:

Economic Growth: Porchlight Solar will create between 200 to 300 jobs during construction, as well as good-paying, long-term operations and maintenance positions.

Community Benefits: Once in service, Porchlight Solar will contribute more than $800,000 in utility-aid payments each year. Over $460,000 of this will go to Portage County, $273,000 will go to the town of Buena Vista, and just over $80,000 will go to the town of Pine Grove. During its 30-year life, the project will contribute a total of $24.4 million in utility-aid payments. In other municipalities, funds like these have gone toward roads, municipal buildings, and first responder resources.

Landowner Engagement: Porchlight Solar has signed land leases with farmers who produce potatoes, corn, and soybeans, according to the application from the developer. When farmers and landowners sign 25-plus-year leases to host solar projects like Porchlight, they are able to rely on long-term, stable revenue.

Emissions Reductions: Porchlight Solar will reduce energy production emissions by 530 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 53,000 vehicles off the road for a full year. These emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits.

Public comments are open now through November 3 for Emerald Bluffs Solar Park, a 225 Megawatt (MW) solar project. If approved, the solar project will be located in Juneau County and is planned for completion in the latter half of 2027. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Show your support for this project and tell the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) why you support the approval of a vital solar project in Wisconsin!

You can use some of the listed benefits below to help you craft your message. You can also review RENEW’s public comment here – RENEW Wisconsin’s Public Comment

Emerald Bluffs Solar isn’t just about the clean energy it will produce. The 225 MW facility in Juneau County has many benefits:

• Economic Growth: Emerald Bluffs will create nearly 1,000 jobs during construction, as well as more than 20 good-paying, long-term operations and maintenance positions.

• Community Benefits: Once in service, Emerald Bluffs will contribute more than $1,125,000 in utility-aid payments each year. Over $637,000 of this will go to Juneau County, while the remaining $487,500 will go to the towns of Lemonweir and Seven Mile Creek. During its 35-year life, the project will contribute a total of $39.375 million in utility-aid payments.

• Emissions Reductions: Emerald Bluffs will reduce energy production emissions by 746 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 73,500 vehicles off the road for a full year. These emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits.

Submit your comments today and tell the PSC you support the approval of Emerald Bluffs Solar. Feel free to use some of the bullet points above to craft your own unique message.

Public comments are open now through August 18 for Porchlight Solar, a 163.8 Megawatt (MW) solar project paired with a 50 MW battery system. If approved, it is planned for completion in the latter half of 2028. Projects like this have a wide range of local and statewide benefits. Show your support for this project and tell the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) why you support this vital solar project!

You can use some of the listed benefits below to help you craft your message. You can also review RENEW’s public comment here – RENEW Wisconsin’s Public Comment

Porchlight Solar isn’t just about the clean energy it will produce. The 163.8 MW facility in Portage County has many benefits:

Economic Growth: Porchlight Solar will create between 200-300 jobs during construction, as well as good-paying, long-term operations and maintenance positions.

Community Benefits: Once in service, Porchlight Solar will contribute more than $800,000 in utility-aid payments each year. Over $460,000 of this will go to Portage County, $273,000 will go to the town of Buena Vista, and just over $80,000 will go to the town of Pine Grove. During its 30-year life, the project will contribute a total of $24.4 million in utility-aid payments.

Landowner Engagement: Porchlight Solar has signed land leases with farmers who produce primarily potatoes, corn, and soybeans, according to the application from the developer. When farmers and landowners sign 25-plus-year leases to host solar projects like Porchlight, they are able to rely on long-term, stable revenue.

Emissions Reductions: Porchlight Solar will reduce energy production emissions by 530 million pounds of CO2 in the first year of operations. In terms of greenhouse gas emissions, this is the equivalent of taking more than 53,000 vehicles off the road for a full year. These emissions reductions will result in health, economic, and environmental benefits.

Submit your comments by August 18 to tell the PSC you support the approval of Porchlight Solar. Feel free to use some of the bullet points above to craft your own unique message.

As we continue to find ways that clean energy can integrate into our homes, businesses, and communities, we are realizing there are many great opportunities to say “yes-and” when it comes to renewable energy. One such idea is to develop solar energy in a way that allows agricultural activity to happen around it, known as Agrivoltaics. This is why you might hear some people call it a “yes-and” approach. This is one of those opportunities where we can, yes, use land to produce solar energy, and use that same land for agricultural purposes. Some recent research has even indicated that solar panels are able to create ideal conditions for crops.

The pairing of solar energy production with agriculture can take on several forms, including the growing of crops, creating space for grazing, and allowing native plants to grow under and between solar panels. In RENEW Wisconsin’s latest report, Dorothy Lsoto summarizes the ongoing global and local research efforts on agrivoltaics and provides information as well as policy recommendations on how agrivoltaics can play a role in Wisconsin’s clean energy planning and policies. One of the main takeaways from the report is that agrivoltaics is still very much in a research and development phase for Wisconsin, the Midwest, and the United States as a whole. As a result, we must be careful to support this opportunity, rather than mandate its immediate implementation.

There are several ways to describe this pairing of energy production and agriculture, which our report goes into. However, we’ll stick with agrivoltaics for now to keep things simple.

Benefits of Agrivoltaics

All solar projects generate clean energy that powers Wisconsin’s homes and businesses while creating stable revenue opportunities for farmers and landowners who lease their land. Through agrivoltaics, farmers can create additional opportunities to diversify their income if they choose to.

We are learning that the shade provided by the panels provides some additional benefits when it comes to growing specific crops. The shady environment created by the panels could be used to optimize water usage for a variety of herbs, berries, and vegetables and reduce the amount of direct sunlight and, ultimately, heat stress for these crops. Other sites are also testing hay, alfalfa, wheat, soybeans, and corn.

As described in the report, the agrivoltaics project at Iowa State University aims to determine agrivoltaic practices suited to the Midwest, as well as identify resources needed to assist multiple stakeholders, such as solar developers, farmers, and utilities.

In cases where it might not make sense to grow crops between the panels themselves, there is still an opportunity to create a benefit for nearby agricultural activity. By planting native, pollinator-friendly plants between the panels, there is an opportunity to increase plant biodiversity, attracting pollinators critical to agricultural productivity. This has the potential to increase crop yields for farmers on the parts of their land they’re still using. In the meantime, the land used for solar energy production and pollinator habitat will have a chance to rest. When the project reaches the end of its life, it is likely that the soil will be in great condition for farming.

Research Across the Globe and At Home

Research and project implementation are underway in Wisconsin. For example, OneEnergy Renewables’ agrivoltaics projects are planted with either a deep-rooted, perennial pollinator prairie mix or a pasture seed mix underneath the tracking solar arrays. Today, OneEnergy boasts 948 acres of developed pollinator habitat and 155 acres of solar grazing with sheep. The Mastodon Solar portfolio, built in 2021 across Wisconsin and Minnesota, is a group of eight OneEnergy projects.

Wisconsin is, of course, not the only place where agrivoltaics research and implementation are occurring. This effort spans several continents and is being widely researched across the U.S. Here in Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Madison has partnered with Alliant Energy on the Kegonsa Research Campus solar array. The array features three distinct types of solar panel racking and various spacing between each row of panels.

The array will produce enough energy to power around 450 homes, while it serves as a living laboratory. It is designed to advance knowledge and education about win-win opportunities for pairing renewable energy with agricultural activities and research across the State of Wisconsin. Proposed research and demonstration include horticulture, forage trials, pollinator monitoring, ecohydrology, microclimate, and more. The Kegonsa Research Campus solar array is one of several agrivoltaics projects across the state. Each shows promise to meet the type of success already achieved by global leaders in this space.

Challenges and Opportunities

One of the biggest challenges to furthering agrivoltaics research and implementation is the partnerships required to make these projects happen. For a project to come together, a collaborative partnership between researchers, solar developers, utilities, landowners, and farmers is required. It is possible to build these relationships, but it requires understanding the unique perspectives and experiences of each party. 

At the same time, one of the challenges that solar faces can be turned into an opportunity through agrivoltaics. Based on our zero-carbon study, Wisconsin will need to develop more than 28 Gigawatts of solar by 2050 to meet our decarbonization goals. This will require about 200,000 acres of land, much of which will be in agricultural settings. Agrivoltaics presents an opportunity to approach agricultural land use through a yes-and mentality.

Another potential challenge is funding. That’s where the American-Made Large Animal and Solar System Operations (LASSO) Prize comes in. Funded by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and offering more than $8 million in funding to support projects, this prize is designed to bring solar developers, farmers, ranchers, and other stakeholders together. The LASSO Prize concentrates on forming partnerships that result in building impactful projects that deepen the public’s understanding of agrivoltaics, specifically agrivoltaics with a focus on cattle. Additionally, the USDA, through partnerships with the DOE, is offering funds to support agrivoltaics work, and as seen in our case studies, research institutions have often been the beneficiaries of these funds.

How We Can Support Agrivoltaics

Based on everything we know about agrivoltaics, we believe that Wisconsin can support this opportunity through the development of clear and adaptable guidance. We can do this while making sure policies consider and respect the diverse needs of each farm and project developer. From the report, we know that Wisconsin has experience with pollinator-friendly projects, as well as some projects that allow sheep grazing. While no commercial projects have incorporated crop production into an agrivoltaics project in Wisconsin, the UW-Madison Kegonsa Research Campus is providing the research needed to someday make projects like these possible in the Badger State.

Though we’re not quite ready to go all-in on agrivoltaics, we can get closer by expanding our research efforts. As we do this, it is important that we spread our efforts across diverse regions of the state. This will give us opportunities to test a variety of agricultural practices and crops with different combinations of soil types and climate zones.

Creating guidance and supporting research alone is just the start. Broad implementation of agrivoltaics will require guidance on business partnerships and financing agreements, financing opportunities, a skilled workforce, knowledge sharing, and policies that expand opportunities to research new, creative possibilities. Finally, one key recommendation from the report states:

Given the early stage of agrivoltaics, policies should focus on enabling experimentation rather than requiring it. Mandating specific agrivoltaic practices or designs could limit innovation and disproportionately impact small or family farms that may not be ready to adopt new technologies. 

Aligning Clean Energy With Our Agricultural Heritage

As we continue our pursuit of agrivoltaics, we can’t ignore the promising opportunity that we have to align Wisconsin’s clean energy goals with its agricultural heritage. The success of these efforts will depend on flexible, locally informed policies. The policies our state develops should protect farmers’ freedom to manage their land, avoid unnecessary government mandates, and encourage voluntary adoption for farmers who want to diversify their income. It is critical that family farms have the opportunity to benefit from this emerging technology so that Wisconsin farms can continue to be owned and operated by the people who live here.

On Tuesday, August 5, it was reported that the EPA is preparing to terminate all 60 grants awarded under the $7 billion Solar for All program, threatening more than $60 million awarded to Wisconsin. An additional $62.3 million awarded to the Midwest Tribal Energy Resource Association is also under threat.

These funds are intended to reduce electricity bills for Wisconsin residents by installing solar energy in low-income and other disadvantaged communities. The Solar for All program, or PowerUp Wisconsin, is a significant opportunity for us to accelerate the clean energy transition in a way that recognizes the need for everyone to benefit from renewables.

The decision to end this program couldn’t come at a worse time. With some of the highest utility rates in the country, Wisconsin needs programs that can reduce electricity costs now more than ever. We need to invest in our communities, not leave them behind.

These investments wouldn’t just help hardworking Wisconsinites with high energy bills — they would also support and sustain hundreds, if not thousands, of good-quality jobs across the state.

Despite this setback, we are positive that the momentum of the clean energy transition cannot be stopped. The renewable energy industry is massive and continues to grow. Together, we can continue building the future we want to see. One where clean energy powers a strong, healthy, and vibrant Wisconsin.

On Thursday, July 24, 2025, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) determined how the state would move forward with its investigation into net metering, which was opened in response to net metering changes proposed by Madison Gas & Electric and Alliant Energy.

Initially, a Wisconsin Value of Solar Study (VoSS) was expected to be a part of the overall investigation. PSC Chairperson Summer Strand indicated during the July 24 open meeting that she was content with the VoSS information already provided in the docket, and that a Wisconsin-specific VoSS effort would require more effort than it was worth. Commissioners Kristy Nieto and Marcus Hawkins ultimately agreed with this path forward.

Though a Wisconsin-specific VoSS won’t be a part of the investigation going forward, the PSC still plans to investigate and gather additional data and information about the state of rooftop solar in Wisconsin to help guide policy decisions. We are encouraged by their continued interest in establishing clarity and data on solar installations in Wisconsin. RENEW also hopes that the PSC considers the quick phase-out of federal tax credits for residential rooftop solar as they review installation trends moving forward.

The commissioners made it clear that they will include a review of adoption rates, an evaluation of net metering options and rate designs, and the expected impacts of rate designs on customers in their investigation. In relation to rate design options, the commissioners were also interested in the incorporation of time-of-use rates and other customer technologies, such as batteries and smart thermostats, and innovative programs, such as behavior demand response and virtual power plant options for the future.

RENEW Wisconsin participated in the process as it related to creating the parameters for the VoSS and will continue to offer input whenever we have the opportunity. We will also inform members and supporters alike when there are opportunities for the public to participate in the process.

Public comments are now open for Whitewater Solar, a 180-megawatt solar project in Jefferson and Walworth Counties. The project is seeking approval from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC), and your voice can make a difference. This is your chance to tell the PSC why you support expanding solar energy in Wisconsin. The public comment period is open now through July 11.

By showing your support for Whitewater Solar, you’re helping to advocate for:

• Economic Growth: Whitewater Solar will create hundreds of jobs during construction as well as good-paying, long-term operations and maintenance positions. It will also produce affordable and reliable clean energy for Wisconsin residents. It is expected that this project will produce $259 million in additional economic activity in Wisconsin.
• Community Benefits: Once in service, Whitewater Solar will contribute more than $900,000 in utility-aid payments each year. These payments will go to Jefferson and Walworth Counties, the City of Whitewater, and the Towns of Whitewater and LaGrange. Utility-aid payments are often used to fix roads and support local municipal services, all without creating an additional tax burden for residents.
• Environmental Responsibility: Whitewater Solar has undergone thorough environmental studies to minimize impact. It will contribute to cleaner air and water and support a healthier Wisconsin. In our testimony to the PSC, we estimate that the Whitewater Solar will displace fossil fuel generation and avoid over 293,000 tons of CO2 in the first year of operations alone.

Submit your comments today and tell the PSC you support the approval of Whitewater Solar. You can use the key points listed above to help craft your own unique message.

Wisconsin’s first 100+ megawatt (MW) wind energy project in more than a decade is seeking approval from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC). Badger Hollow Wind has been in development for nearly 10 years, and if approved, it would mark a major step forward in Wisconsin’s energy future. The PSC is accepting public comments on this project now through June 26.

This is your chance to tell the PSC why you support the approval of more wind energy in Wisconsin! Badger Hollow Wind isn’t just about the energy it will produce. The 118 MW facility in Iowa and Grant Counties has many benefits:

• Economic Growth: Badger Hollow Wind will create hundreds of jobs during construction as well as good-paying, long-term operations and maintenance positions. It will also produce affordable and reliable clean energy for Wisconsin residents. It is expected that this project will produce $3.2 million in additional economic activity in Wisconsin.

• Community Benefits: The Badger Hollow Wind developer, Invenergy, has been a good community partner, supporting student programs at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville and schools in Iowa and Grant Counties. They’ve also donated to local emergency services and food banks, and more. Once in service, Badger Hollow Wind will contribute more than $500,000 in utility-aid payments each year. Over $300,000 of this will go to Grant and Iowa Counties, and over $200,000 of this will go to the towns of Clifton, Eden, Linden, Mifflin, and Wingville.

• Landowner Engagement: Invenergy is a good partner to landowners, respecting their property rights and regularly checking in with them to ensure their relationships are positive. Payments to landowners help farmers directly, but Invenergy goes the extra mile by building access roads to turbines that farmers can use for their operations.

• Environmental Responsibility: Badger Hollow Wind has undergone thorough environmental studies to minimize impact. It will contribute to cleaner air and water and support a healthier Wisconsin. RENEW’s witness estimated that the Badger Hollow Wind will displace fossil fuel generation and avoid over 250,000 tons of CO2 in the first year of operations alone.

Submit your comments today and tell the PSC you support the approval of Badger Hollow Wind. Feel free to use some of the bullet points above to craft your own unique message.