Clean Energy Legislative Update • August 2024

Clean Energy Legislative Update • August 2024

by | Aug 22, 2024 | Advocacy, Legislative Watchlist, Local Government

Voters turned out at levels not seen in 60 years for this year’s primary to make their voices heard on several important statewide issues! News sources report that the turnout was over 25 percent with numbers in Dane County and the City of Madison, reaching nearly 30 percent. According to the Waukesha Freeman, the WOW counties had a 40 percent turnout.

Referendum Questions

In past blogs, I covered the proposed changes to the Wisconsin Constitution, shifting how federal dollars are spent in the state and giving the legislature more control. The results show almost 60% of the voters statewide rejected the amendments. As a result, the Governor will continue to have the authority to act on behalf of the state when it comes to emergency funding and other unallocated federal dollars.

This is a significant victory for those who opposed the changes, such as the Wisconsin Conservation Voters, and the Democratic legislators, who argued that the legislature would be unpredictable and slow to respond during a crisis, delaying critical funding.

Republican legislators and groups supporting the amendments such as the Badger Institute and Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, claimed the changes were necessary to provide checks and balances to the Governor’s power.

Referendums historically passed 2/3 of the time. The rejection this time shows the power of the voters and is indicative of the tremendous effort put forward by the groups fighting them.

Primaries Under New Maps

As voters navigated the new districts, the results showed some incumbent losses — inevitable when two legislators were drawn into one district. We also saw many new faces claim victories for the numerous open seats created by the new maps.

Though we don’t yet know the full impact of the new maps. Results so far have been mostly positive for incumbent candidates.

State Senate

In the Milwaukee area, two state representatives vied for the open seat of Senate District 4, where Dora Drake (D-Milwaukee) prevailed over Lakeshia Myers. Drake will face no opposition in November, securing the seat for her.

In the Madison area, in the open seat for Senate District 16 vacated by Melissa Agard who is running for Dane County Executive, another Melissa beat out two other state representatives to win the primary. Melissa Ratcliff (D – Cottage Grove) won over Reps. Baldeh and J. Anderson without an opponent in November, she has secured the senate seat.

State Assembly

The Energy & Utilities Committee Chairman, Rep. Dave Steffen (R- Green Bay) survived a primary challenge. While another nearby incumbent, Republican Peter Schmidt (R-Shawano) lost to Rep. Elijah Behnke from Oconto in a new district.

Congressional Primary Wins

In the 3rd Congressional District, Rebecca Cook came out on top in the three-way Democratic primary. Cook will face Republican incumbent Derrick Van Orden in November.

In the 8th Congressional District, Tony Wied won his own three-way primary on the Republican ticket. He will face Democrat Kristin Lyerly in November.

The remainder of the candidates running in their respective congressional districts were not primaried.

The general election is slated for Tuesday, November 5, 2024. With plenty of time to get to know all the candidates and make your vote count.

Harnessing Solar for Coulee Region Humane Society’s Critters

Harnessing Solar for Coulee Region Humane Society’s Critters

by | Aug 22, 2024 | Solar, Solar for Good

On Thursday, August 15, Coulee Region Humane Society (CRHS) celebrated the expansion of their animal shelter and the addition of 240 ground-mounted bifacial solar panels. CRHS is based out of Onalaska, centered in the Driftless Region of Wisconsin. Having reliable and sustainable sources is instrumental to being able to provide energy for veterinary services and day-to-day care for animals. 

CRHS’ vision of acting as a regional leader in enhancing the well-being of wildlife and adoptable pets makes their transition to solar energy a demonstration of the shelter’s commitment to providing the best services for the animals they care for. Their impact extends beyond animals within their immediate care to the Onalaska community.

In addition to providing housing for homeless animals, the humane society also offers dog training programs, and reduced fees for veterinary services to increase accessibility to veterinary care, and wildlife rehabilitation. If you ever find yourself at the humane society, you may also meet Flower, their de-scented skunk who helps with educational programming for youth!

To be able to focus the organization’s resources on animals, CRHS turned to solar technology. The nonprofit requires a significant amount of energy to ensure that all animals within their care receive optimal shelter by cleaning the laundry daily. In 2023 alone, over 2,000 domestic animals came into their care. The savings from their solar array will reduce operational costs and allow their team to prioritize funding to the core of their mission in serving animals that enter their doors. 

CRHS’ new 129.6 kilowatt (kW) solar array, installed by Solar Connections, is expected to cover 80-85% of their annual electrical needs. While their focus is on animals, the humane society strives to make a greater positive impact on the Onalaska community and environment.

With the completion of their solar array, CRHS joins over 200 mission-based nonprofits in Wisconsin that have also decided to turn to clean energy sources with the support of Solar for Good. Through collective impact, these organizations demonstrate leadership in Wisconsin’s transition to renewable energy, creating a sustainable future for all.

Wisconsin HOMES Rebate

Wisconsin HOMES Rebate

by | Aug 9, 2024 | Home, Inflation Reduction Act, Local Government

With the launch of the Home Efficiency (HOMES) rebate program, Wisconsin is the first state in the country to begin utilizing IRA funds to help homeowners increase the energy efficiency of their homes. Focus on Energy launched the program in August 2024. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to help homeowners improve their home’s energy efficiency in a more accessible and cost-effective way.

How to Get a HOMES Rebate

The goal of the HOMES rebate is to help people improve the efficiency of their homes. One of the first steps in home electrification and energy efficiency is to evaluate the efficiency of your house to better understand where homes are losing energy, whether through leaky windows, poor insulation, or outdated appliances. Since every person consumes energy differently, getting an energy assessment is a crucial first step to understanding your specific situation and in qualifying for a rebate.

HOMES will offer rebates for whole-home energy projects, such as improving insulation, and heating and cooling equipment. Participants can save anywhere from $1,500 to $10,000 on a project, depending on income, whether they live in a single-family or multi-family home, and how much energy they expect to save.

While renters are not eligible to receive a HOMES rebate, you can encourage your landlord or building owner to participate in the program.

*Table from Focus on Energy

The rebate also has a retroactive aspect. Home Efficiency Rebate projects that started on or after August 16, 2022, are eligible for rebates if they meet specific criteria. To qualify for retroactive HOMES program rebates, projects must comply with all final federal and state program requirements.

Reducing Energy Burden

These rebates offer a crucial first step for many Wisconsinites to become more energy efficient and reduce their energy burden in the process. Energy burden is defined as the percentage of a household’s income that is spent on energy costs, such as electricity, heating, and transportation. According to the American Council for an Energy Efficiency Economy, the average energy burden for Wisconsin is 2 percent, but some low-income households face energy burdens as high as 9 percent. These rebates are a great first step in ensuring more Wisconsinites see their energy burden reduced to a manageable level.

A Cleaner, Healthier Wisconsin

This effort will also help lower emissions from our residential sector. The residential sector is responsible for 8 percent of Wisconsin’s greenhouse gas emissions. In Madison, homes contribute 19.8 percent to the city’s overall emissions. In Milwaukee County, residential energy use made up 25 percent of the county’s total emissions as recently as 2018. By making our air cleaner we not only combat the impacts of climate change, but also collectively benefit associated from fewer days of school and work missed due to illness, less frequent hospital visits, and can lower the localized number of respiratory illnesses.

The rebates also provide a welcome injection into local economies by increasing demand for energy-efficient products and services, which will support new jobs in the energy-efficiency sector. In fact, the U.S. Department of Energy projects that these programs will help families nationwide save around $1 billion each year and create 50,000 jobs within the country.

Empowering Tribal Nations: The Shift to Clean Energy

by | Jul 31, 2024 | Advocacy, Community, Community Solar, Electrification, Energy Storage, Health, Home, Inflation Reduction Act, Local Initiatives, RENEW Wisconsin, Renewables, Sustainability

The Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin is committed to preserving their environment and fostering sustainable growth. In the face of a rapidly changing climate, investing in clean energy isn’t just about harnessing the power of the sun and wind—it’s about empowering their community, protecting their sacred lands, and ensuring a vibrant future for generations to come. With increased clean energy funding opportunities, such as those provided by the Inflation Reduction Act, the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin is creating new opportunities, enhancing economic resilience, and supporting the Tribe’s cultural values.

Special thanks to Isaiah Ness (Sun Bear Industries) and Zoar Fulwilder (Mavid Construction Services) for their work to advance clean energy in Tribal communities and for inviting RENEW to witness the transformation.

Stoughton United Methodist Church Celebrates New Solar Array

Stoughton United Methodist Church Celebrates New Solar Array

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Solar, Solar for Good

On Sunday, June 23, Stoughton United Methodist Church held a solar dedication event to celebrate their new solar array, which will cover 92% of the building’s annual energy use and offset 87% of the church’s annual electric costs. As a faith-based institution committed to welcoming all and building loving relationships that serve God, the church offers numerous community programs, including a food pantry, support for Ukrainian refugees, and programs for older adults. These initiatives reflect their mission to be good stewards of their resources.

To maximize these resources and amplify their impact, Stoughton United Methodist Church turned to solar to reduce operational costs and strengthen financial sustainability. The savings from their new solar array will allow the church to reallocate funds into other essential missions and ministries, furthering their positive impact on the community. By installing solar panels, the church also aspires to lead by example for its neighbors, demonstrating their dedication to environmental stewardship and the well-being of future generations.

“Like so many in the faith community, our church is always looking for opportunities to better utilize limited resources,” said Lisa Urban, board chair at Stoughton United Methodist Church. “The installation of a solar array – and the cost savings it’s expected to generate – will play an important role in keeping us financially viable for years to come.”

The church’s new 24.42 kilowatt (kW) solar array, installed by Synergy Renewable Energy Systems, is set to produce approximately 32,632 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually. The influence of neighbors installing a solar array of this size is significant, and Stoughton United Methodist Church exemplifies this idea. As the second church in Stoughton to install solar, they were inspired by their colleagues’ commitment to reducing reliance on fossil fuels and hope to create a ripple effect, motivating others to follow suit.

The completion of Stoughton United Methodist Church’s solar project marks a major milestone in its journey towards sustainability and financial resilience. By embracing renewable energy, they are not only securing their future but also contributing to the broader mission of environmental stewardship and community betterment.

With the completion of its solar array, Stoughton United Methodist Church joins a community of over 200 nonprofits in Wisconsin who have made the same decision with the support of Solar for Good. Together, strides are being made towards a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.

Faith and the Environment: Stewardship in Action

Faith and the Environment: Stewardship in Action

by | Jul 29, 2024 | Solar, Solar for Good

On Saturday, June 22 and Sunday, June 23, the Catholic Ecology Center hosted a Solar Open House to celebrate their new solar array and other sustainability features in their latest building addition. The events drew community members eager to learn about renewable energy and the Center’s commitment to sustainability.

The Catholic Ecology Center is a nonprofit organization dedicated to restoring humanity’s connection to the natural world through education, stewardship, and recreation. This mission is central to all their initiatives, including their latest solar project. Their diverse programming engages people of all ages, from toddlers to senior citizens, with a special emphasis on reaching minority and underprivileged youth.

One of their standout programs is Clare Gardens, an organic farm where volunteers and groups learn about sustainable farming while growing organic vegetables for senior living homes and food pantries. The Center’s strategic location in southeastern Dodge County allows it to serve both rural and urban communities effectively. They also offer year-round recreational opportunities such as snow-shoeing, cross-country skiing, and canoeing, enabling people and families from all backgrounds to experience the beauty of the outdoors.

The decision to install solar panels aligns well with the Catholic Ecology Center’s mission to promote environmental stewardship. As an educational facility, it is crucial for them to practice what they preach. This solar project allows them to move away from fossil fuels and serves as a powerful teaching tool to demonstrate the sustainability opportunities available, particularly in renewable energy.

The new addition to their main building includes a 3,500 sq ft space for a welcome area, educational spaces, and handicap accessibility. The facility sits on 60 acres of diverse habitats, including restored prairies, woods, a pond, a creek, a river, and an organic farm. The new 12.8 kilowatt (kW) solar array, installed by Full Spectrum Solar, is projected to produce 16,853 kilowatt-hours (kWh) annually and offset 85.3% of their electrical usage. Other energy-efficient measures include geothermal heating and cooling.

“The decision to include solar energy in our new building project at the Catholic Ecology Center was a natural fit,” said Joe Meyer, Executive Director of the Catholic Ecology Center. “Our mission of connecting our faith to a stewardship ethic made solar a visible sign of our commitment to live more sustainably. This also allows us to educate others in doing the same.”

The Catholic Ecology Center hopes that through this project, others will be encouraged to join in their journey towards a more sustainable future. Through their educational programs, community engagement, and commitment to renewable energy, they are making a significant impact on the environment and inspiring others to do the same.

Action Alert: Show Support for Wisconsin’s Largest Solar Farm

Action Alert: Show Support for Wisconsin’s Largest Solar Farm

by | Jul 25, 2024 | Action Alert, Advocacy, Public Service Commission

A nearly 1,300-megawatt (MW) solar project, Vista Sands Solar Farm, has been proposed in Portage County by Doral Renewables, LLC. If approved, Vista Sands would be the largest solar farm constructed in the state of Wisconsin, offering a substantial step forward in meeting our state’s clean energy goals.

Earlier this summer, RENEW Wisconsin submitted testimony in support of Vista Sands to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW). Now that the public comment period is open, we’re asking you to help ensure this project’s success by sharing your support for solar energy.

The Vista Sands Solar project is a significant investment in local communities, creating over 150 new long-term jobs, increasing tax revenue for local governments, and providing a steady revenue stream for farmers who lease their land for the project. Cropland can rest and regenerate throughout the lifespan of the solar project, maintaining soil quality and ensuring the land remains viable for the next generation of farmers. The project developer has also committed to addressing concerns related to local wildlife by utilizing a local seed mix around the installation and setting aside a portion of land for wildlife habitat.

Beyond the immediate local benefits, this project will offset 4.5% of Wisconsin’s electric utility emissions and help mitigate the impacts of climate change. Based on a 2022 study, we know Wisconsin needs 31 Gigawatts (GW) of solar to achieve net zero by 2050. In the first quarter of 2024, Wisconsin had just over 2.3 GW of operating solar. Projects of Vista Sands’ scale are integral to reaching these goals in time.

Help ensure this project moves forward by demonstrating Wisconsin’s enthusiastic support for solar energy by submitting a comment today in support of Vista Sands Solar Farm.

When submitting your comments, be sure to specifically reference the project and the benefits that it can bring to Wisconsin. The deadline to submit comments is August 16, 2024. We’ve included a sample message to help you get started. Please keep in mind that the PSCW allows one comment per case* and that customizing your message will have a greater impact.

*Comments submitted on the Vista Sands Environmental Impact Statement do not count toward the one comment per case rule.

Sample Comments:

I’m writing in support of Vista Sands Solar. This project would provide significant support to the local economies, preserve farmland for future generations, and is critical to addressing climate change, all while ensuring more of the money Wisconsinites spend on energy stays here in state.

By producing homegrown, renewable energy right here in Wisconsin we protect our health, improve our economy, support grid stability, and protect our natural environment from the worst impacts of climate change. This project makes good sense for Wisconsin.

I respectfully encourage the PSCW to rule that Vista Sands Solar is in the public interest and issue a permit enabling the project to proceed to construction. Thank you for your time and consideration.

TAKE ACTION
Clean Energy Legislative Update • July 2024

Clean Energy Legislative Update • July 2024

by | Jul 23, 2024 | Advocacy, Legislative Watchlist, Local Government

Wisconsin’s primary election is an opportunity to have your voice heard on which local and national candidates you think best align with your view. This year voters also have a say in how the state decides to spend federal dollars. The primary election is on August 13, 2024, giving voters a few more weeks to get acquainted with the issues on the ballot.

The decision on how the state spends federal dollars is impacted by two, potentially confusing referendum questions on the back side of the ballot:

Question 1 – In plain language, this refers to who has the power over how federal money is spent.

A “yes” vote means the legislature would decide how federal dollars are spent.

A “no” vote means the legislature would share the power with the governor.

 

Question 2 – This refers to the Governor’s authority to act on behalf of the state.

A “yes” vote means the governor would be prohibited from spending federal dollars without legislative approval.

A “no” vote would allow the governor to continue spending federal money on behalf of Wisconsinites.

Much of the federal funding and state revenue that is spent in Wisconsin is allocated by the legislature and the Governor during the state budget process. Both parties try to get some form of compromise.

Funding from the federal government is often designated for a particular purpose, like road construction or broadband installations, and can only be used for those purposes.

Changes to the constitution made by these referendum amendments would apply to the Wisconsin Governor regardless of party affiliation and impact the Wisconsin legislature, regardless of which party is in the majority. However, different parties have different priorities, and finding agreement among the parties is difficult.

As an example, states have benefited from federal assistance during extensive emergencies, extreme weather conditions, natural disasters, and other situations where immediate financial assistance was critical. In more recent years, the Inflation Reduction Act and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated money to the states to implement Wisconsin’s transition to clean energy. Changing the process for how these funds are allocated could slow down the process of dispersing them.

In other words, anytime money comes to the state without strings attached on how it should be spent, it would be decided by the governor if the referendums are not approved OR it would have to be approved by the legislature if the referendums are approved.

Your vote determines the path forward for the state.

Protecting Housing for Low- and Moderate-income Individuals

Protecting Housing for Low- and Moderate-income Individuals

by | Jul 8, 2024 | Community, Inflation Reduction Act

Mou Vang grew up in Section 8 housing in the Twin Cities and is familiar with the outdated infrastructure that often exists in affordable housing. Now she uses her experience and knowledge to serve the residents of Wisconsin Housing Preservation Corp (WHPC). Recently, with financial support from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) Energy Innovation Grant Program (EIGP) and the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), and technical assistance from Elevate Energy (Elevate), she co-led WHPC’s Green Team toward solar and battery storage for their Villa West property in Green Bay. The energy savings from these efforts will be reinvested in other areas of the property for the benefit of the residents.

WHPC has been dedicated to preserving, providing, and protecting homes for low- and moderate-income individuals and families across Wisconsin for over 20 years. With more than 9,000 housing units across Wisconsin, WHPC’s mission is not just about shelter; it’s about fostering stability, empowerment, and community well-being.

Central to WHPC’s initiatives is sustainability. In 2020 they convened a “Green Team” whose aim is to make its portfolio more environmentally friendly and efficient. By identifying opportunities for sustainable upgrades and prioritizing energy efficiency in its existing and new developments, WHPC is lowering utility expenses, reducing carbon emissions, and making the properties more comfortable for residents.

In April of 2022, WHPC received a grant from the PSC to create a microgrid at Villa West. This Green Bay property offers affordable housing for individuals earning no more than 50 percent of the area median income, with its residents being persons with disabilities or seniors.

“A lot of our properties were built in the mid to late 70s so they don’t have air conditioning,” said Mou. “In Wisconsin, not having air conditioning in a senior and disabled building is concerning.”

As an Asset Manager, Mou is regularly touring properties and can attest to the lack of progress that has been made in the quality of affordable housing. It reminded her of her childhood. On one hand, it forced her to reflect on how far she has come. On the other, she is well aware of the technological advancements that have been made since then and wonders why these properties seem to be frozen in time.

“The properties still look the same,” Mou said. “They still function the same. It really didn’t sit well with me. In 30 years, nothing’s changed.”

There is no shortage of work to be done to create more comfortable living spaces for residents living in affordable housing structures.

Embracing Sustainability through the Green Team

Partners at Elevate play a pivotal role in WHPC’s Green Team. Elevate is a nationwide non-profit specializing in clean affordable energy with a focus on low-income communities. Jake Archbell, Program Manager of Solar Programs at Elevate, leads efforts to study energy usage across properties and implement strategies to enhance efficiency.

For Jake, “The more complicated something is, the more I enjoy it. So, I love projects like this; I love doing new things and managing all the pieces and seeing them come together,” he said.

Jenna Grygier, Associate Director of High Performance Buildings at Elevate echoes Jake’s love for a challenge.

She said, “I’ve seen rooftop solar, ground-mounted solar, micro wind turbines, etc. but I’ve never seen battery storage on multi-family properties. So, it’s pretty exciting for me just to see how it all fits together.”

Bringing Solar and Battery Storage to Villa West

The initial phase of the Villa West project is nearly complete, with three of the twelve buildings having solar panels installed on the roof and backup solar battery storage. The solar panels alone amount to $14,000 of savings annually.

For WHPC, “that $14,000 is the difference between new flooring in the common space so that there’s less of a trip hazard,” said Mou.

While the battery storage has no direct cost savings for WHPC, the indirect savings are very real and tangible for the residents.

Mou explained, “Think of insulin that needs to be refrigerated but the power goes out; the medication may become unusable. Typically, insurance only covers this medication being refilled once a month. So now a person with limited income has to pay out of pocket for insulin to get through the month, in the event of an extended power outage.”

“It’s just something that I think a lot of people don’t think about because we don’t experience it firsthand,” added Mou.

When asked about the intangible benefits of this project for residents, Jenna highlighted an important, yet often overlooked aspect of making people feel valued.

She said, “Even if they [residents] don’t completely understand the mechanics of it, everyone can at least identify the solar panels. My hope is that it might make them feel more valued. That they live in a place where the owner cares enough to do something like renewable energy.”

Paving the Way for Clean Energy Benefits

Earlier this year, WHPC secured additional funding for Villa West to receive installations and storage for two more buildings. As each phase progresses, the vision of outfitting all buildings with solar and battery storage inches closer to reality, shaping a brighter, more sustainable future for Villa West and its residents.

Villa West Phase I was funded with a PSC EIGP award in 2022 for $500,000. WHPC will also be taking advantage of Focus on Energy incentives available at the time of installation completion to help fund this effort. Additionally, the IRA’s Elective Pay provision will enable Villa West to secure a federal rebate covering 30% of the solar project’s cost.

As WHPC continues to pave the way in the affordable housing sector, its commitment to sustainability stands as a testament to its ethos. Through the efforts of individuals like Mou and the Green Team, WHPC is providing housing, nurturing communities, and fostering a brighter, more sustainable future for all. In this journey towards inclusive, eco-conscious housing, WHPC is not just building structures; it’s building hope and resilience.

Mou added, “It truly is an investment back to the property and the tenants benefit from it.”

Energy Independence: Creating a Resilient Future

Energy Independence: Creating a Resilient Future

by | Jun 26, 2024 | Advocacy, Community

As a valued supporter of RENEW Wisconsin, we know you understand the critical role that renewable energy plays in creating a sustainable and resilient future. Today, I want to share the immense importance renewable energy plays in achieving energy independence for our great state of Wisconsin.

Energy independence is about more than just reducing our reliance on fossil fuels. It ensures that our energy needs are met through locally produced, clean sources that benefit our economy, environment, and communities. Renewable energy is at the heart of the transition to energy independence. This transition will promote:

  • Community Empowerment: Wisconsin has less than 1% customer-owned clean energy sources. Local renewable energy projects empower residents, businesses, and communities by giving them greater control over their energy sources.
  • Energy Security: As a state, Wisconsin spends over $10 billion each year importing fuels to power our energy sector. Diversifying our energy mix with renewables enhances our energy security by reducing our dependence on imported fuels, making our state less vulnerable to external disruptions and price volatility.
  • Economic Benefits: Costs of solar and wind have declined significantly, making renewable energy investments the best option for our energy production. Investing in more renewable energy creates local jobs, stimulates the economy, and keeps energy dollars in our state.
  • Environmental Protection: Temperatures in Wisconsin have risen 3 degrees since 1950, and our precipitation has increased by 17% over that time. Renewable energy resources emit no greenhouse gases, which helps protect our natural landscapes, improve air and water quality, and mitigate the worst effects of climate change.

At RENEW Wisconsin, we are committed to advancing renewable energy initiatives that drive us toward energy independence. However, we cannot do this work alone. With your support, we can advocate for stronger policies, promote groundbreaking projects, and educate the public on the importance of clean energy.

Renew your commitment to Wisconsin’s energy future by donating today. Thank you for your unwavering dedication to an independent energy future for Wisconsin.

 

We appreciate your support!

Ismaeel Chartier

Development Director, RENEW Wisconsin