Wisconsin's Major Electric Utilities on Pace to Hit Carbon Reduction Goals

Sunday, July 14th, 2024 -- 10:00 AM

(Joe Schulz, Wisconsin Public Radio) All five of Wisconsin’s major electric utilities are on pace to hit their carbon reduction goals by the end of the decade, according to a new draft report from the state’s utility regulator.

According to Joe Schulz with Wisconsin Public Radio, every two years, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin prepares the Strategic Energy Assessment, a report compiling information on electricity demand, the state’s energy mix, affordability and environmental impact.

The new draft report is based on data utilities provided to state regulators in fall 2023 as well as historical data. Two years ago, the draft Strategic Energy Assessment projected four of the five major electric providers would fall short of their goals.

But the regulator’s new draft said all major electric utilities are expected to meet their 2030 goals through coal plant retirements, moving to cleaner fuels and adding renewable energy resources.

For Wisconsin Public Service, We Energies, Xcel Energy and Madison Gas and Electric, hitting their goals means reducing carbon dioxide emissions by 80 percent from 2005 levels by 2030.

Alliant Energy, meanwhile, has a goal of a 50 percent reduction in emissions by 2030. All five major utilities hope to achieve a 100 percent reduction in emissions from 2005 levels by 2050.

While the draft Strategic Energy Assessment’s findings may be encouraging, RENEW Wisconsin Policy Director Andrew Kell said it’s important to understand the projections come from the utilities themselves.

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