U.S. House Passes HR 1

U.S. House Passes HR 1

by | Jul 3, 2025 | Advocacy, Legislative Watchlist

Today, the U.S. House passed a reconciliation bill eliminating key clean energy tax credits. There’s no way to sugarcoat it. This is a serious challenge for our industry, especially residential solar and small businesses.

Thanks to pressure from clean energy champions, the Senate version softened some of the most harmful provisions. It removed the proposed excise tax on wind and solar, dropped FEOC restrictions that would have penalized projects using certain foreign components, and extended eligibility for commercial and utility-scale projects that begin construction within a year of enactment through 2027. But the Section 25D tax credit is now set to expire on December 31, 2025, with residential projects losing eligibility for any expenditures made after that date. That puts real pressure on small clean energy businesses to adjust planning and project timelines.

It is disappointing to see Congress roll back what was once bipartisan common sense. Since 2005, clean energy tax credits have helped families lower energy bills, driven innovation, and supported hundreds of thousands of jobs. Reversing that support now risks slowing the momentum we have built together.

Installers will face pressure to adjust pipelines to meet an unusually short timeline. Developers may need to reassess projects they can no longer bring online before the new deadline. The result may be fewer jobs, fewer local investments, and reduced progress at a time when clean energy leadership is urgently needed.

Still, I am hopeful.

Over the past eight years, I’ve seen clean energy businesses across Wisconsin grow exponentially. I’ve watched electricians, designers, sales teams, and service professionals build lasting careers and deepen their roots in Wisconsin communities. Federal incentives helped lay the foundation, but they did not create the deep commitment we see today. That credit belongs to all of you and the lasting impact of your work across the state. I am disappointed by this decision, but my belief in this community has not wavered. This industry has weathered tariffs, shifting political winds, and policy uncertainty before and has come back stronger every time.

RENEW is ready to support you through this next chapter. We will continue to advocate for state and local policies that strengthen the business case for renewables. We will work to remove barriers to clean energy access, elevate your success stories, and help businesses adapt to the new federal landscape. Because we still believe that clean energy is the best way to build a healthy, thriving Wisconsin.

I encourage you all to take some time this weekend to rest and recharge. Next week, we’ll begin digging into the legislation and planning for the days, weeks, and years ahead.

“Imagine, Create, and Renew”: Green Bay Church Uses Clean Energy to Put Faith in Action

“Imagine, Create, and Renew”: Green Bay Church Uses Clean Energy to Put Faith in Action

by | Jul 2, 2025 | Solar, Solar for Good

On June 8, 2025, Union Congregational United Church of Christ (UCC) in Green Bay celebrated the completion of an 18.06-kilowatt solar installation that will supply approximately 20 percent of the church’s electricity needs—an inspiring example of how faith, sustainability, and community intersect. Over 100 church members gathered to admire the 42 panels shining on the rooftop of their historic church building—a physical embodiment of the congregation’s commitment to caring for the planet and their community.

A Vision Realized: The Solar Dedication Ceremony

The solar dedication event was a heartfelt celebration of values in motion. Leading the dedication ceremony was Rev. Bridget Flad Daniels, who reminded the congregation of the project’s vision first set into motion three years earlier.

“Three years ago, we dared to dream boldly,” Daniels said. “We launched a capital campaign not just to improve our building, but to align it with our values—to care for creation, to walk more gently on this sacred earth, and to shine God’s light in a new way. Today, we stand in the light of that vision realized. This solar installation is more than an energy solution— it is a testimony of faith, justice, and community. It is the fruit of commitment, generosity, and love.”

In collaboration with Eland Electric, the congregation took great care in planning and installing the solar array on their historic church. Given its age and location in a designated historic neighborhood, the project required thorough research and congregational approval to ensure alignment with preservation standards and congregational values. With guidance and support from several partners, including the West Side Moravian Church, whose own solar installation provided both precedent and inspiration. Union UCC ensured that every aspect of the project aligned with their values and the integrity of their historic building.

This investment is part of a broader commitment to sustainability. Over the years, the church has upgraded to energy-efficient LED lighting and modernized its boiler system. The solar project adds a powerful new dimension to their efforts, reducing reliance on coal-fired power from the local utility while also delivering long-term energy cost savings.

Powered by Partnership: Funding the Vision

A project of this scale and ambition was made possible through community support and strategic funding. The church’s Capital Campaign earmarked $31,000 for the project, but thanks to grants and tax credits, the actual costs will likely come in under budget. Key funding sources included:

Historically, nonprofit organizations like Union UCC were excluded from federal clean energy tax credits because they don’t pay taxes. The Inflation Reduction Act’s direct pay provision now allows tax-exempt entities to receive tax credits as refundable payments, effectively putting cash in hand to support renewable energy investments.

For Union UCC, direct pay was instrumental in bridging the financial gap between vision and reality. This tax provision allowed the church to take meaningful climate action without sacrificing resources needed for their core programs. This policy shift represents a new era for nonprofits across the country, offering a long-overdue opportunity to invest in renewable energy. However, recent federal budget reconciliation efforts threaten the clean energy tax credits and direct pay provision that made Union UCC’s renewable energy project possible.

Lighting the Way Forward

The rooftop solar array is a reflection of Union UCC’s commitment to living its values. As they reduce their carbon footprint, the church also strengthens its capacity to serve the community. Savings on energy costs will be reinvested in operations, youth programs, and outreach efforts that uplift those in need.

“We may even see our electric meter run backwards on clear, low-usage summer days… In our small way, by reducing our reliance on coal, we are being better stewards of the precious earth God gave us,” Union UCC member Achim Seifert said.

From the rooftop panels catching sunlight to the warm words spoken at the dedication, this project is a testament to the power of collective vision, favorable clean energy policy, and aligned values. It shows what’s possible when a community dares to dream—and follows through with action grounded in stewardship and faith.

Clean Energy Legislative Update • June 2025

Clean Energy Legislative Update • June 2025

by | Jun 25, 2025 | Advocacy, Legislative Watchlist, Local Government

After the shock of earlier executive orders had somewhat subsided, we were lulled by the notion that “only Congress can change the tax code,” and then, it happened. Congress began its work on a reconciliation bill, parts of which would effectively pull the rug from under the solar industry.

But we’re not letting it happen without a fight.

RENEW Wisconsin, like many other organizations, is sharing action alerts and urging members of the industry and the public to contact their members of Congress. The effort is meant to bring the harsh reality into view, so policymakers can understand that gutting the programs and repealing these tax credits immediately will have devastating effects. These effects will be felt by real people, businesses, and local energy production.

Many of our partner organizations, like the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA), have organized webinars and call-ins to keep industry participants informed and involved. In-district meetings and a fly-in to D.C. have been organized to meet with elected representatives and advise them on a different course of action.

When the distressing contents of the House bill were voted on and the bill moved to the Senate, a determined group of RENEW Wisconsin members scheduled a meeting with Senator Ron Johnson’s chief of staff.  I, along with Michael Cornell from Ach Solar, Ron Chester from Full Spectrum, Kurt Reinhold from Legacy Solar Co-op, and Michael Reuter from Midwest Solar Power, met with Tom Petri in the Madison district office. The main message conveyed was “don’t pull the rug” out from under our businesses, replicating the same term Senator Johnson used during a recent media interview. During that interview, Johnson indicated he did not want to hurt business.

But there was more — the specific examples relayed to Johnson’s team highlighted how the tax credit helps with the upfront cost of projects and allows nonprofits, farmers, and homeowners to take advantage of solar power and reduce their energy bills. We shared how manufacturing has just started to ramp up and has begun producing materials in the U.S. to help boost local energy production. We also explained that deploying solar is faster, cheaper, and if partnered with battery storage, incredibly reliable.

The tax incentives supporting the industry were not expected to last forever, but the abrupt end to them will impact projects, eliminate prior investment, cut jobs, and delay future development. This affects homeowners, developers, installers, manufacturers, and much more.

While we await final action by the Senate, followed by some form of compromise with the House, we’re tracking developments and urging people to advocate for the industry.

There is a way to phase out the credits, with an intentional transition, without disrupting the established progress. For that, Congress needs to hear from the industry and make the needed changes.

Contact your representatives today!

SENATE
HOUSE
Action Alert: Show Your Support for Whitewater Solar

Action Alert: Show Your Support for Whitewater Solar

by | Jun 17, 2025 | Action Alert, Advocacy, Renewables, Solar

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.

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Heartland Farm Sanctuary Celebrates a Bright New Chapter

Heartland Farm Sanctuary Celebrates a Bright New Chapter

by | Jun 16, 2025 | Solar, Solar for Good

On Friday, May 23, 2025, members of the Heartland Farm Sanctuary community gathered at their pastoral property in Stoughton, Wisconsin, to celebrate a milestone moment—the completion of a 50.22-kilowatt (kW) rooftop solar energy project that will help the nonprofit bridge compassion for animals with care for the planet.

This installation, spread across three rooftops at the sanctuary, is expected to produce over 60,000 kW-hours of clean electricity each year, offsetting about 62 percent of the organization’s annual electricity use. More than just a reduction in emissions, the solar project embodies Heartland’s mission to inspire compassion for animals, the earth, and each other. 

A Sanctuary Rooted in Compassion and Sustainability

For 15 years, Heartland Farm Sanctuary has offered a safe, welcoming space where people and rescued farm animals come together to experience growth, healing, and connection. The sanctuary provides high-quality, specialized care for animals recovering from abuse and neglect, offers inclusive humane education for learners of all ages, and facilitates experiential therapy.

By embracing solar power, the sanctuary is modeling the type of sustainability and care for the planet it teaches through its programming. It’s a powerful example of how organizations can use clean energy to put their core values into action.

“Going solar not only helps us greatly reduce our Scope 2 emissions but also serves as a tangible means of inspiring action by Heartland’s visitors, program participants, volunteers, and donors,” said Heartland board member Eric Sundquist at the ribbon-cutting event.

A Community Effort to Power a Compassionate Mission

The ribbon-cutting event brought together an array of partners, supporters, and advocates. Heartland Executive Director Jen Korz opened the ceremony with words of gratitude for the many hands that helped bring the project to life. She was joined by Sydnie Zimmerman, Heartland’s Development Specialist; Deiter Dettling, Project Manager at Full Spectrum Solar, who installed the system; and Jackie Harrison-Jewell, Executive Director of the Couillard Solar Foundation.

The project was made possible by a mix of creative financing, generous grants, and community support. Heartland financed the bulk of the $87,192 cost through Legacy Solar Co-op, with additional funding from a Focus on Energy rebate and a forthcoming clean energy tax credit, made possible through the Inflation Reduction Act’s Direct Pay provision. Legacy Solar Co-op also provided a bridge loan, the cost of which is being covered by two committed donors.

Thanks to the Solar for Good program, Heartland received 46 solar panels—a contribution valued at $11,178. Solar for Good, a program of the Couillard Solar Foundation administered by RENEW Wisconsin, supports mission-driven nonprofits across the state in transitioning to renewable energy.

Investing in Impact: From Energy Savings to Animal Care

The solar installation is projected to save Heartland over $8,000 annually—funds that will be redirected into the organization’s life-changing programs. These savings will help support:

  • Farm Animal Rescue & Care: Heartland is nationally recognized for its expertise in providing lifelong rehabilitative care for farm animals who’ve experienced trauma and neglect.
  • Humane Education: Through camps, classes, field trips, and clubs, Heartland empowers learners to become advocates for people, animals, and the planet.
  • Experiential Therapy: Using nature, animal interaction, and evidence-based practices, Heartland provides therapeutic experiences tailored to each participant’s needs.

With more resources flowing into these programs, the sanctuary can expand its reach and deepen its impact, proving that sustainability and mission-driven work are compatible and can reinforce each other.

Looking Ahead: Building a Brighter, Greener Future

Heartland’s solar installation is just one piece of a larger vision for environmental stewardship. The sanctuary installed its solar arrays on a recently constructed barn with extra insulation to reduce heating needs. As part of ongoing decarbonization efforts, they plan to install a heat pump to serve the unfinished portion of the barn and assist with heating currently provided by propane. They’re also undertaking an emissions inventory, with an eye toward full decarbonization in the future.

These actions are grounded in Heartland’s sustainability commitment: to honor ancestral Ho-Chunk land, conserve biodiversity, and engage in practices that benefit all beings—human and non-human alike.

Solar Power Brings Energy Savings to Edgerton Seniors

Solar Power Brings Energy Savings to Edgerton Seniors

by | Jun 6, 2025 | Solar, Solar for Good

On May 21, the community of Edgerton, Wisconsin, came together for a renovation celebration at Edgerton Retirement Apartments (ERA). This event, half a decade in the making, marked both the completion of a construction project and a turning point in how this rural nonprofit cares for its residents and the planet.

With balloons, speeches, and a palpable sense of pride, the event commemorated the energization of a new 44.5-kilowatt solar array—one of many upgrades made possible through an innovative blend of clean energy funding, community partnerships, and a commitment to equity and sustainability.

The celebration drew a crowd of residents, supporters, and clean energy advocates. Among the attendees were Edgerton Mayor Christopher Lund, Paul Schechter, Executive Director of Sunny Side Development; Sam Dunaiski, Executive Director of RENEW Wisconsin; and Cal Couillard, Founder of the Couillard Solar Foundation.

Clean Energy for Comfort and Affordability

Nestled in the heart of Edgerton, ERA is a 24-unit housing complex built in 1983 to serve low-income seniors and people with disabilities. The property keeps rents affordable for low-income individuals, offering a safe, welcoming place to live in community with one another. Originally developed with Rural Development funding on land donated by a local hospital, ERA has long embodied the spirit of community care and resource-sharing.

The vision for transformation began as a way to overcome the challenges of rising energy costs and aging infrastructure. The new rooftop solar installation, installed and energized by Midwest Solar Power on May 21, is mounted on the south-facing roof of ERA’s eastern housing cluster. The 44.5-kilowatt array is expected to produce 54,918 kilowatt-hours annually, covering approximately 39 percent of the building’s total electricity needs.

The solar panels are paired with a new geothermal heat pump HVAC system that will replace the outdated electric resistance heating system. Together, these improvements will significantly reduce energy consumption while shifting most of the electric load to a single meter. The utility savings will be passed directly to ERA’s residents. 

Powered by Partnership: Making Solar Possible

The ERA solar project was made possible through a unique mix of grants, tax credit equity, and philanthropic support. The Solar for Good Program, an initiative of the Couillard Solar Foundation administered by RENEW Wisconsin, donated 41 solar panels, roughly half of what was needed, valued at over $9,000. 

Sunny Side Development collaborated with Edgerton’s long-time property managers, Broihahn Management and Consulting, to secure additional funding from Rock County HOME, FHLBank Chicago’s Affordable Housing Program, and the USDA Rural Development Program. The project also leveraged tax credit equity, a key tool for bringing clean energy projects to nonprofits and affordable housing developments. These partnerships brought solar within reach for ERA and ensured that the benefits of clean energy would go directly to the people who can most benefit from them.

Beyond Solar: A Holistic Approach to Building Sustainability

The solar installation was just one piece of a comprehensive rehabilitation effort at ERA. All 24 units received health and safety upgrades, enhanced ADA accessibility, and the installation of the new geothermal HVAC system. Together, these changes modernize the property while supporting the long-term sustainability of affordable housing in Edgerton.

Just weeks before the event, a hailstorm had pelted Rock and Dane counties with golf ball-sized ice, damaging roofs across the region. But ERA’s new solar array was unscathed, and the sturdy panels even protected a portion of the roof from more extensive damage—a surprising and welcome side benefit. Project leaders and electricians alike were excited to know that the array will simultaneously decrease residents’ energy bills and shield the covered portion of the roof from inclement weather. 

A Model for Energy Justice and Community Care

With the success of the solar installation, Edgerton Retirement Apartments has become a model for how rural communities can be an integral part of the clean energy transition. For nonprofit housing providers, solar is a way to live out their mission of service in a rapidly changing world. For the broader community, it’s a powerful example of what’s possible when compassion and innovation come together. Edgerton Retirement Apartments now shines brighter—not only because of the solar panels on the roof, but because of the community-wide commitment to a cleaner, more equitable future.

Celebrating Solar Power, Community, and Sustainability

Celebrating Solar Power, Community, and Sustainability

by | Jun 4, 2025 | Solar, Solar for Good

On Tuesday, May 20, 2025, community members, nonprofit partners, and renewable energy advocates gathered at the Forest Edge Apartments in Lac du Flambeau, Wisconsin, to celebrate a milestone years in the making: the official ribbon-cutting of a 120-kilowatt solar energy system atop the Forest Edge Multi-Family Housing Project. Spearheaded by Cinnaire Solutions Corporation, this solar project exemplifies the organization’s mission of advancing people- and place-centered housing while reducing carbon emissions and stands as a powerful testament to what’s possible when community, design, and sustainability come together.

People and Place at the Heart of Forest Edge

Cinnaire Solutions Corporation has long been a trusted nonprofit partner for development clients across the Upper Midwest and Mid-Atlantic. With an unwavering commitment to the people they serve and the places they transform, Cinnaire’s developments like Forest Edge aim to create dignified, sustainable, and welcoming housing for all. 

More than just housing, Forest Edge provides a vital resource for the Lac du Flambeau community, offering units tailored for veterans, people with disabilities, and low-income families. The property includes a classroom space intended for job training and educational programming to create countless opportunities for community members. 

Solar on the Rooftop: A Vision Realized

Now, with 222 solar panels installed across the rooftops of the Forest Edge Apartments and the community Clubhouse, the development is bringing its vision to life, powered by clean, renewable energy.

From the very beginning, sustainability was central to Forest Edge’s design. The development is on track to meet the Wisconsin Green Built Home Standard, with energy-efficient features such as high-performance air-source heat pumps, strategically designed electric metering, and other thoughtful design elements.

The 120-kilowatt solar system, installed by Eland Electric, includes five rooftop arrays and was designed to maximize output and long-term performance. Thanks to integrated electrical conduits and reinforced roof structures, the site was ready for solar installation from the start. The system is expected to offset up to 64 percent of the residential building’s heat pump usage and approximately 85–90 percent of the Clubhouse’s electricity use, bringing significant environmental and economic benefits to the community.

This commitment to high-performance design means that, in addition to immediate energy savings, Forest Edge will enjoy reduced long-term utility costs. These savings will be reinvested in tenant services, improved building maintenance, and potentially lower rents—direct benefits that ripple out to the Lac du Flambeau community. 

Celebrating a Community-Powered Effort

The Forest Edge solar project was made possible by Solar for Good, a grant program funded and founded by the Couillard Solar Foundation and managed by RENEW Wisconsin.This initiative supports Wisconsin-based nonprofits with transitioning to clean energy by awarding solar panel grants. As part of the program, Forest Edge received 172 solar panels—an in-kind contribution that significantly reduced installation costs and made the project financially feasible. This grant was pivotal for Cinnaire Solutions, which views energy efficiency and environmental stewardship as essential to its mission.

The ribbon-cutting celebration drew partners, supporters, and local residents to honor the collaborative effort behind this impactful project. Cal and Laurie Couillard from the Couillard Solar Foundation were delighted to be in attendance and see the mission of their Solar For Good program realized. Kevin McDonell, Vice President & Regional Project Partner of Lincoln Avenue Communities, gave the Couillards and other celebration attendees a spirited tour of his newest project. Together, they reflected on the transformative power of collaboration and community-driven sustainability initiatives.

In a speech to Forest Edge’s project leaders, Cal said, “I heard Carla Vigue, the Director of Tribal Relations at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, speak a few weeks ago.  She mentioned that the native people have a seven-generation thought process. Many people I talk to think seven minutes into the future, not seven generations! Not the kind of thinking we need for the kinds of problems we are facing now. [Laurie and I] came to thank you for what you’ve done and what you’re doing. This building project gives me hope.”

A Beacon for Clean Energy and Community

As the ceremonial ribbon was cut and the panels officially energized, it was clear this moment marked far more than the start of solar power at Forest Edge. It symbolized a shared commitment to justice, resilience, and hope. Future plans for Forest Edge may include expanded sustainability programming, more community partnerships, and additional onsite amenities that reflect Cinnaire’s people-first approach. 

By harnessing the sun to lower energy costs and reduce carbon emissions, Forest Edge stands as a model for nonprofit-led development that’s intuitive, sustainable, and human. As more communities look to clean energy to build a better future, Forest Edge serves as an example of what’s possible when mission, innovation, and community are centered in design.

Action Alert: Support More Wind Energy in Wisconsin

Action Alert: Support More Wind Energy in Wisconsin

by | Jun 3, 2025 | Action Alert, Advocacy, Renewables

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.

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Changes to RENEW Wisconsin’s Leadership

Changes to RENEW Wisconsin’s Leadership

by | May 30, 2025 | RENEW Wisconsin

Earlier this month, Executive Director Sam Dunaiski informed the RENEW Board and staff that he has decided to step away from the organization to make way for new leadership to guide RENEW’s next chapter. We appreciate the careful thought that went into this decision and are grateful for Sam’s years of service to the organization, as well as his steadfast support of the renewable energy industry.

Sam remains a passionate supporter of RENEW and our mission, and he is working with staff and the RENEW Board to ensure we are positioned for success in the coming months. Transitions bring change and also create space for new opportunities. Our team remains committed to advancing renewable energy across the state, and we are strategically preparing to meet the challenges and seize the potential of tomorrow.

Sam’s last day with RENEW will be Friday, June 6. To maintain operational stability, RENEW’s Deputy Director, Jodi Jean Amble, will serve as Interim Executive Director while the Board and staff work to identify RENEW’s next leader.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,
RENEW Wisconsin

Clean Energy Is the Solution to Our Growing Energy Demand

Clean Energy Is the Solution to Our Growing Energy Demand

by | May 27, 2025 | Renewables, Solar, Utility Scale, Wind

A recently published report by the Center for Energy & Environmental Analysis, “Drill More, Pay More – America’s New Energy Paradigm,” indicates the U.S. is facing a unique energy situation characterized by both rising domestic energy prices and increased energy production. Wholesale natural gas prices in the U.S. have increased 93 percent in the first quarter of 2025, compared to the same period last year, despite record-high natural gas production.

At the same time, we have reports on clean energy that show us (Achieving 100% Clean Energy in Wisconsin Report and the companion report The Economic Impacts of Decarbonization in Wisconsin), we don’t just know that Wisconsin can achieve 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050 — we know how to do it. All while maintaining reliability and affordability for consumers. These reports emphasize that most of the projected energy demand through 2050 can be met with the development of more renewables, enhanced energy efficiency, and more flexible energy load management solutions.

We’re now past the point of advocating for clean energy solely because it’s better for the planet. As our energy needs grow, driven by electrification and data demand, it’s critical to invest in solutions that can be brought online quickly and affordably. Methane gas can no longer guarantee the consistent, low prices it once did. In contrast, renewable energy projects like solar and wind can typically be built in about two years, while gas plants often take twice as long to become operational. Supply chain issues and tariff uncertainties are increasing construction times and costs across all sectors, but renewable energy projects can still be constructed more quickly while avoiding the fuel price volatility associated with fossil fuels. With timelines and costs both working against gas, it’s simply not smart business to keep investing in slower, more expensive options when faster, more reliable solutions are within reach.

Utilities across the country continue to tell regulatory bodies and the general public that we can only meet the rising energy demands caused by new data centers with methane gas plants. However, national case studies from companies like Meta and Microsoft have demonstrated that clean energy solutions can meet data center needs when paired with smart load shifting and grid integration. Microsoft, for example, is piloting hydrogen fuel cells as an alternative to fossil fuel backup, while Meta has partnered with the Tennessee Valley Authority to run its Tennessee data center on 800 MW of solar power. These examples show us that there are multiple ways for us to power the digital economy, notably, without fossil fuels.

Even with clean energy opportunities before us, and financial and supply chain barriers to building new methane gas plants, we continue to see utilities propose new natural gas-powered electricity generation. An energy source, which according to analysis by the U.S. Department of Energy, is likely to have three cumulative impacts on consumers: higher natural gas bills, higher electricity bills, and even a higher cost of goods from U.S. manufacturers.

By supporting clean energy solutions, energy efficiency measures, and creative management of our grid, we can reliably support the around-the-clock energy needs of data centers and the needs of everyday Wisconsinites. To ignore these solutions is to ignore good business sense. It is time to recognize that clean energy isn’t an alternative but a practical solution to our growing energy demand.