Legislature suspends wind siting rule
The Wisconsin legislature suspends the wind siting rule. That action causes wind developers active in Wisconsin to leave the state.
PSC develops wind siting rule
Work commences on the development of the PSC’s wind siting rule, starting with the formation of the Wind Siting Council. On matters such as setback distances and sound thresholds, that body proposes permitting standards that the PSC incorporates into its final rule (PSC 128), pending legislative review.
Legislature adopts Wind Siting Law (2009 Act 40)
Acting on a recommendation from Governor Doyle’s Task Force on Global Warming, the legislature adopts the Wind Siting Law (2009 Act 40). The law directs the Public Service Commission to promulgate a rule establishing siting standards that apply to wind power projects under 100 MW, which are permitted by local jurisdictions.
Blue Sky Green Field, Forward, and Cedar Ridge wind farms placed in service
The RPS begins bearing fruit as wind generating capacity in Wisconsin expands sixfold, as three utility-scale wind farms in eastern Wisconsin are placed in service, including Blue Sky Green Field (88 turbines, 144 MW); Forward (86 turbines, 132 MW); and Cedar Ridge (41 turbines, 65 MW), all located in Fond du Lac and Dodge counties.
RENEW spearheads Wind for Wisconsin campaign
Reacting to an increasingly difficult siting climate, RENEW spearheads the formation of the Wind for Wisconsin campaign. This broad-based coalition maps out a legislative strategy leading to the establishment of statewide standards and procedures for permitting wind power projects at the local level.