Wisconsin Utility Investors News

XCEL ENERGY ENGAGES LAWMAKERS AT WISCONSIN LEGISLATIVE DAY

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:48:46 GMT

More than 100 employees and retirees from Xcel Energy gathered at the Wisconsin State Capitol for the company’s annual Legislative Day, meeting with state leaders to discuss key energy priorities.

Participants emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between utilities and policymakers as energy demand continues to grow. Discussions focused on strengthening the grid, expanding infrastructure, and advancing new technologies to ensure reliable service.

Xcel Energy serves approximately 260,000 electric and 116,000 natural gas customers in Wisconsin, and company officials said continued engagement like this is key to meeting the state’s future energy needs.

REGULATORS APPROVE TWO SOLAR PROJECTS FOR WE ENERGIES

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:47:39 GMT

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin has unanimously approved the purchase of the Good Oak Solar Generation Facility and the Gristmill Solar Generation Facility; both will be built in Columbia County.

The two projects will add 165 megawatts (MW) of solar energy to the power grid — enough to power about 50,000 homes.

“Today’s commission approval will add more renewable energy to the power grid and support the state’s increased electricity needs in the coming years,” said Mike Hooper, President — We Energies. “The Good Oak and Gristmill solar projects are part of our ‘all the above’ energy strategy that supports continued reliability and helps keep energy costs down for our customers.”

We Energies will be the majority owner of the projects, with Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) and Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) as co-owners.

Ownership breakdown:

We Energies – 78.7 MW Good Oak and 53.6 MW Gristmill
WPS – 9.8 MW Good Oak and 6.7 MW Gristmill
MGE – 9.8 MW Good Oak and 6.7 MW Gristmill

The facilities are expected to begin serving customers in 2028, following construction and testing. The project is being developed by OneEnergy Renewables.

ALLIANT ENERGY MAKE RECORD NUMBER OF GRANTS DURING 2025

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:46:44 GMT

Alliant Energy and its charitable foundation, along with the company’s employees and retirees, collectively contributed nearly $6.6 million and over 66,000 volunteer hours to various causes and nonprofits in 2025.

“We’re proud of the difference we're making, supporting more than 1,280 organizations and distributing over 700 grants in 2025 alone,” said Aimee Davis, Alliant Energy Foundation board chair. “We helped provide fresh dairy products to rural food pantries, which are often difficult for them to source and advanced our goal of planting 1 million trees by 2030, this work reflects our purpose of serving customers and building stronger communities.”

XCEL ENERGY TO POWER NEW GOOGLE DATA CENTER IN MINNESOTA

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:45:49 GMT

Xcel Energy will power a new Google data center in Pine Island, Minnesota. The data center and associated Electric Service Agreement will provide a significant contribution to the state’s economy, including a large buildout of new clean energy projects that will contribute to Minnesota’s clean energy goals while ensuring that Xcel Energy’s current customers benefit as a result of this growth.

Data centers serve as the core infrastructure that powers the internet, from personal electronics to business operations to government services. Xcel Energy recently signed an agreement to supply power for the Google data center that will support core services — including Workspace, Search, YouTube and Maps — that people, communities and businesses use every day.

Xcel Energy is committed to ensuring that new large loads do not increase costs for existing customers and that service remains reliable. Under the agreement, Google will pay all costs for its new service in line with its typical practices and Minnesota’s regulatory and legislative requirements for large loads. Over the past five years, Xcel Energy’s average Minnesota residential customer’s electric bills were 27% below the national average. Since 2013, residential electric bills have increased by 1.55% a year, well below the rate of inflation.

REGULATORS APPROVE UPGRADES AT BURLINGTON IOWA GENERATING STATION

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:44:40 GMT

Alliant Energy has received approval to move forward with upgrades to the Burlington Iowa Generating Station. The approval allows Alliant Energy to add five new reciprocating internal combustion engine (RICE) units, totaling 94-megawatts, to replace the combustion turbines that have operated at the Burlington site for more than 30 years.

The Iowa Utilities Commission unanimously approved Alliant Energy’s Certificate of Public Convenience, Use and Necessity request.

“With the new RICE units at the Burlington Generating Station, we are positioning the communities we serve for a resilient and reliable energy future,” said Mayuri Farlinger, President of Alliant Energy’s Iowa energy company and Vice President of energy delivery. “Our investment strategy remains focused on cost‑conscious decisions that enhance reliability today and help prevent unnecessary costs for customers in the years ahead.”

XCEL ENERGY NAMES ROB CAIN SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Tue, 14 Apr 2026 19:43:34 GMT

Xcel Energy has named Rob Cain its Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer. Cain will lead the company’s Technology and Security Services organization, taking over the role held by Tim Peterson, who accepted a position outside of the company.

The Technology and Security Services organization is vital to Xcel Energy’s resilience, innovation and success. Cain will oversee its key role in modernizing the company’s infrastructure, mitigating cyber and physical security risks, and enabling AI and other advanced digital solutions to reshape the company’s operations and improve the employee and customer experience.

“Rob’s strategic acumen and global perspective will be invaluable as we advance our technology and security vision and accelerate modernization across the enterprise,” said Bob Frenzel, Chairman, President and CEO of Xcel Energy. “He will help us make energy work better by empowering our people, delivering for our customers and strengthening our enterprise capabilities.”

MGE ENERGY REPORTS FOURTH-QUARTER AND FULL-YEAR 2025 EARNINGS

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 15:50:51 GMT

The company has reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2025.

MGE Energy's earnings for the fourth quarter of 2025 were $23.3 million, or 64 cents per share, compared to $22.0 million, or 61 cents per share, for the same period in the prior year.

Electric segment earnings increased $11.3 million for 2025 compared to 2024. This growth was largely driven by the successful deployment of key renewable energy projects. The Darien Solar Project in Rock and Walworth counties became operational in March 2025, followed by the Paris Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) in June 2025. MGE owns 25 MW of solar capacity from the Darien Solar Project and 11 MW of battery capacity from the Paris BESS.

Gas segment earnings increased $2.5 million for 2025 compared to 2024. During 2025, gas retail therm deliveries increased approximately 14% compared to the prior year, primarily due to warmer-than-normal weather in 2024.

WEC ENERGY GROUP POSTS 2025 RESULTS

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:09:36 GMT

WEC Energy Group has reported net income based on generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) of $1.6 billion, or $4.81 per share, for 2025. This compares to earnings of $1.5 billion, or $4.83 per share, for 2024. Full-year 2025 earnings include a charge of 46 cents per share, reflecting an agreement on the terms of a proposed settlement the company reached with the Illinois Attorney General that would resolve all open proceedings in Illinois related to the Qualifying Infrastructure Plant (QIP) rider and the Uncollectible Expense Adjustment (UEA) rider. Full-year 2024 earnings included a charge of 6 cents per share related to certain capital expenditures under the QIP rider that were disallowed by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Excluding these charges, WEC Energy Group's adjusted earnings for 2025 rose to $5.27 per share – an increase of 8.0 percent over 2024 adjusted earnings of $4.88 per share. For the fourth quarter of 2025, WEC Energy Group recorded net income based on GAAP of $316.6 million, or 97 cents per share. This compares to earnings of $453.5 million, or $1.43 per share, for the fourth quarter of 2024. Excluding the 2025 charge, WEC Energy Group's adjusted earnings for the fourth quarter of 2025 totaled $1.42 per share. Consolidated revenues for the full year were $9.8 billion, up $1.2 billion from revenues in 2024. “We delivered another year of solid results — from operational efficiency to customer care to financial performance,” according to Scott Lauber, President and CEO. “We continue to see significant growth opportunities ahead. And we remain focused on enhancing value for our customers and stockholders.”

XCEL ENERGY 2025 YEAR END EARNINGS REPORT

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 18:08:50 GMT

Xcel Energy has reported 2025 GAAP diluted earnings of $2.02 billion, or $3.42 per share, compared with $1.94 billion, or $3.44 per share in the same period in 2024 and ongoing earnings of $2.24 billion, or $3.80 per share, compared with $1.97 billion, or $3.50 per share in the same period in 2024.

The change in ongoing earnings reflects increased recovery of infrastructure investments and electric sales growth, partially offset by higher interest, depreciation, and operating and maintenance expenses.

“In 2025, Xcel Energy delivered on our earnings guidance for the 21^st year in a row - one of the best track records in the industry. We placed in service critical infrastructure to serve our customers, including Phase 2 of our Sherco Solar facility, the conversion of our Harrington coal plant to natural gas, and the first two segments of our Colorado Power Pathway. All the while, our customers continue to have some of the lowest energy bills in the country,” according to Bob Frenzel, Chairman, President and CEO of Xcel Energy.

“As we look forward into 2026, we recently announced another large data center customer. We also announced two strategic alliances with industry-leading development and supply chain partners to help ensure we have the right resources to deliver critical system investments affordably, accelerate data center development for the benefit of all our customers, and drive innovation. We are excited for the future and to make energy work better for our customers and communities.”

ALLIANT ENERGY ANNOUNCES 2025 RESULTS

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:27:25 GMT

Alliant Energy Corporation has announced U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) consolidated unaudited earnings per share (EPS) of $3.14 for 2025, compared to $2.69 for 2024. Ongoing EPS for 2025 was $3.22, compared to $3.04 for 2024.

Alliant Energy affirmed its consolidated ongoing EPS guidance for 2026 of $3.36 - $3.46, continuing its over a decade strong track record of compound annual earnings growth of more than six percent.

“In 2025, we delivered another solid year of financial and operational results. We’re executing well while investing to meet growing customer demand,” said Lisa Barton, Alliant Energy President and CEO. “We have renegotiated an electric service agreement with QTS based on a new project location and our investment plan reinforces our flexibility and balanced generation portfolio as we continue to execute on our customer and community-focused strategy.”

In 2025, the primary drivers of Alliant Energy’s results were higher EPS due to increased revenue requirements from authorized rate base increases, reflecting ongoing capital investments in generation and energy storage, non-GAAP adjustments in 2024, and estimated temperature impacts on retail electric and gas sales. These items were partially offset by higher other operation and maintenance expenses, driven by increased generation costs from planned maintenance activities and the addition of new energy resources, as well as higher development costs to support long-term growth. Higher depreciation and financing expenses related to capital investments and non-GAAP adjustments in 2025 also partially offset the higher earnings.

XCEL ENERGY BOARD INCREASES DIVIDEND

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:26:04 GMT

The Board of Directors of Xcel Energy has raised the quarterly dividend on the company’s common stock from 57 cents per share to 59.25 cents per share, which is equivalent to an annual rate of $2.37 per share. The dividends are payable April 20, 2026, to shareholders of record on March 13, 2026.

“Xcel Energy is rewarding its shareholders with higher dividends for the twenty third consecutive year. Bob Frenzel, Chairman, President and CEO of Xcel said. “We are committed to providing predictable and sustainable dividend growth, continuing to target annual dividend increases of 4-6 percent and a payout ratio of 45-55 percent.”

WEC ENERGY GROUP RAISES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND BY 6.7 PERCENT

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:24:43 GMT

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 95.25 cents per share on the company's common stock, an increase of 6.7 percent over the current quarterly dividend of 89.25 cents per share. This raises the annual dividend rate to $3.81 per share.

The higher dividend was payable March 1, 2026, to stockholders of record on February 13, 2026. This marks the 334^th consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

WISCONSIN PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION DATA CENTER HEARING CONTENTIOUS

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:22:24 GMT

At a public hearing held by the Wisconsin Public Service Commission dozens of Wisconsin residents discussed the negative impacts they believed the massive data centers could have on the state’s electricity rates and ability to adopt renewable energy sources.

The three-member PSC is considering a proposal from the Wisconsin Electric Power Company to establish a tariff system for providing electricity to massive data centers. Under the proposal, “very large” customers that would be subject to the tariff would have a combined energy load of 500 megawatts — the equivalent of powering about 400,000 homes.

The first phase of Microsoft’s $13.3 billion data center project in Mount Pleasant is projected to require 450 megawatts. Utilities have disputed the negative charges made and generally support the building of the data centers as beneficial for the state’s economy and utility ratepayers.

ALLIANT ENERGY TO PROCEED WITH WIND PROJECT

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:21:31 GMT

Alliant Energy is moving forward with its proposed $730 million Columbia Wind Project in Columbia County. The project entails a large-scale wind farm just outside of Madison that the utility says will play a major role in meeting Wisconsin’s future energy needs, according to the press release from Alliant Energy.

The project, which would generate up to 277 megawatts of electricity, has drawn support from clean energy advocates while also raising concerns among some rural residents and farmers who worry about land use changes, construction impacts and the long-term presence of turbines in the landscape.

If approved, the Columbia Wind Project would become one of the largest wind farms in the state, according to University of Wisconsin professor of geotechnical engineering James Tinjum.

“This project would be one of the largest utility-scale wind farms in Wisconsin,” Tinjum said. “While there are about ten other large wind farms already operating in the state, this would significantly contribute to wind energy penetration in Wisconsin’s overall energy mix.”

Alliant Energy officials say Columbia County meets the technical and logistical requirements needed for a project of this size. Alliant Energy’s manager of resource development Justin Foss said the utility considers many factors when deciding where to site a wind farm.

KLAPPA TO RETIRE: LAUBER TO BE APPOINTED CEO AT WEC

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:20:22 GMT

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group have announced that consistent with the company's guidelines, Gale Klappa, 75, will not be standing for election and will retire from the board following the annual meeting in May. The Board plans to appoint Scott Lauber, President and Chief Executive Officer, to the additional role of Chairman following the company's annual meeting, subject to his election by stockholders in the annual director election. Lauber has served as President and CEO of WEC Energy Group and as a member of the Board of Directors since February 2022. He joined the company in 1990 and has held a series of leadership roles of increasing responsibility throughout his career.

Klappa joined Wisconsin Energy as President in April 2003. He was elected to the company's Board of Directors in December 2003. From May 2004, Klappa served as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Wisconsin Energy and We Energies. Under his leadership, the company successfully completed its 2015 acquisition of Integrys Energy Group, at which time he assumed those same roles for WEC Energy Group.

Klappa served as non-executive Chairman of WEC Energy Group after retiring as Chief Executive Officer in May 2016. In October 2017, Klappa resumed the role of Chairman and CEO to provide leadership and continuity following a medical issue that sidelined his successor. He returned to the Non-Executive Chairman role in May 2024.

Klappa was the longest serving Chief Executive Officer in company history.

XCEL AND NEXTERA ENERGY ANNOUNCE AGREEMENT

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 17:15:36 GMT

Xcel Energy, has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with a subsidiary of NextEra Energy, Inc. to accelerate the delivery of generation resources to serve large load customers, including data centers.

This MOU represents an expansion of a long-standing commercial relationship between Xcel Energy and NextEra Energy. The parties expect to support existing and new large load opportunities across Xcel Energy’s service territories through improved collaboration on generation, storage and associated transmission investments. This will enable both companies to better anticipate system needs, rapidly assess where large customer demand intersects with available grid and power assets, streamline development timelines, and advance innovative grid technologies for the benefit of all Xcel Energy customers. Xcel Energy expects this agreement will allow it to increase the data center demand that it can serve through the 2030s. Importantly, Xcel Energy is committed to ensuring that its existing customers benefit from new, large loads on its systems and that data centers pay their fair share.

ACT NOW! CONTACT YOUR LEGISLATORS ABOUT "COMMUNITY SOLAR"

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:57:22 GMT

Legislation is under consideration at the Capitol (AB 493/SB 559) that would allow for third party development of solar generating facilities without having to submit to standard utility regulation. These proposals are unfair to utilities, and potentially harmful and costly to consumers and utility investors alike.

Under these so called “community solar” bills, developers could build solar projects exempt from public utility regulation. However, the incumbent utilities would be required to distribute the electricity, manage the billing and credit system, and purchase excess high price power from these projects. These costs would be passed on to non-participating utility customers.

These projects would likely displace a portion of the utility scale solar projects planned or currently being permitted for construction in the near future. Since utility scale solar projects are, without question, the lowest cost means of generating solar electricity, this unfair competition would be harmful to consumers because high cost “community solar” would displace a portion of lower cost utility scale solar generation. This would also adversely impact utility investors.

Some have suggested that “community solar” projects would be a form of free market competition. The reality is that under the bills, they benefit from a unique regulatory framework with guaranteed subsidies and requirements that utilities provide the distribution network, along with having to purchase high priced excess power and manage the billing system. The bottom line is that “community solar” is only viable with subsidies from incumbent utilities.

Experience in other states has shown that “community solar” has proven to be a costly mistake. In neighboring Minnesota, “community solar” pricing is set at a rate as much as 100 percent higher than utility scale solar.

Please take a moment to contact your State Senator and Representative and urge them to vote against these bills. Go to WUIINC.org and click on “Find My Legislators” and enter your street address on the top line. You can then click on their email addresses and send them a message.

DE LION RETIRES AT ALLIANT: VALCQ NAMED NEW PRESIDENT

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:54:33 GMT

Rebecca Valcq, who served as chair of Public Service Commission of Wisconsin and led several state energy offices, was named the next president of Alliant Energy.

Alliant announced David de Leon, President of Alliant, will retire effective July 1, 2026. Rebecca “Becky” Valcq, who served as chair of the PSC between 2019 and 2025, will take his place as company president.

“David’s 39 years of service are a true reflection of his dedication to our customers, communities and employees across Iowa and Wisconsin,” said Lisa Barton, president and CEO of Alliant Energy, in a statement. “Throughout his career, he championed safety, reliability and community partnership, leading with integrity, care and a deep commitment to serving others. We are grateful for his leadership, and the positive, lasting impact he has had on our employees and the customers who depend on us every day. On behalf of the board of directors, we extend our heartfelt gratitude and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement.”

Valcq began as President of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company and Vice President of Energy Delivery on January 5, 2026, officials said. She joined Alliant Energy in 2024 as Assistant Vice President of Regulatory Affairs.

In early 2024, Valcq resigned from chair of the PSC after serving for five years. Governor Tony Evers said it was “an honor and pleasure” to work with her. She also led several state offices for energy, broadband, and energy innovation.

Valcq will have overall accountability for Alliant’s performance in the state, officials said. She will oversee Wisconsin-based operations while supporting customer growth. She will also lead operations support and economic development reports across both Iowa and Wisconsin, officials added.

Valcq serves on the board of directors for the Wisconsin Public Utility Institute, the National Utilities Diversity Council and the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County, officials said. She earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and Spanish from Drake University and a Juris Doctor from Marquette University Law School.

GRID OPERATOR BYPASSES DAIRYLAND, ATC BIDS FOR NEW POWER LINES

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:53:31 GMT

The electric grid operator for the upper Midwest has tapped two out-of-state firms to build high-voltage power lines in Wisconsin, bypassing joint proposals that included ATC and Dairyland Power Cooperative.

The decisions came after the Legislature failed to pass legislation that was designed to give utilities with existing infrastructure in Wisconsin the first crack at building the lines. Conservative groups opposed the bill — dubbed right of first refusal — arguing allowing them to be competitively bid would drive down the cost of the work.

MISO selected Ohio-based Viridon Midcontinent LLC for a 106-mile 765 kV line in southeastern Wisconsin. The company’s bid of $349 million for the work was less than the other three proposals submitted for the line.

The Midcontinent Independent System Operator said in the announcement it had concerns that Viridon had understated the capital costs, but “offered cost containment strong enough to likely ensure the lowest cost to the ratepayer even if its estimated costs rose significantly.”

XCEL ENERGY BOARD DECLARES DIVIDEND ON COMMON STOCK

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:52:40 GMT

The Board of Directors of Xcel Energy has declared a quarterly dividend on its common stock of 57 cents per share. The dividends are payable January 20, 2026, to shareholders of record on December 29, 2025.

WE ENERGIES NAMED BEST IN THE UPPER MIDWEST FOR RELIABILITY

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:51:04 GMT

We Energies has been named recipient of the 2025 ReliabilityOne® Award for outstanding reliability performance in the Upper Midwest.

The award is given to utilities that have excelled in delivering the most reliable electric service to their customers. The recognition, which is based on performance for the year 2024, is presented by PA Consulting.

“This award is a testament to the skill and dedication of our employees, and to the investments we’ve made and work we do every day to ensure reliable service for our customers,” said Mike Hooper, President — We Energies.

We Energies has made investments in the grid to improve performance and recovery from storms. The company is upgrading aging systems, burying hundreds of miles of power lines, adding high-tech equipment that reduces the impact of power outages, and trimming back branches and removing trees along thousands of miles of power lines. These investments are helping to modernize the company’s delivery systems, reduce operating costs and improve energy efficiency.

MANU ASTHANA APPOINTED TO ALLIANT ENERGY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:50:08 GMT

Alliant Energy has announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Manu Asthana as a new Independent Director, effective February 23, 2026.

Asthana, 52, brings nearly three decades of leadership experience across the energy and financial services sectors, with deep expertise in electric and gas markets, grid operations, power generation and trading, risk management, retail energy, customer solutions and enterprise strategy. He most recently served as President and CEO of PJM Interconnection, the largest power grid operator in North America.

“We are pleased to welcome Manu to Alliant Energy’s Board of Directors,” said Patrick Allen, Independent Board Chair of Alliant Energy. “Manu brings deep expertise in the utility industry, grid operations and energy markets, having led large, complex organizations within the sector. His perspective and experience will strengthen the Board’s collective ability to guide the company’s long-term strategy and support long-term growth for the customers and communities Alliant Energy serves.”

XCEL ENERGY EXPANDS GIVING, SUPPORTS COMMUNITIES AND NONPROFITS IN 2025

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:49:08 GMT

Xcel Energy employees, contractors and retirees, supported by the company’s Foundation, provided over $14 million and tens of thousands of volunteer hours in 2025 to support charitable organizations and causes.

Throughout the year, they embraced opportunities to donate their time and act on a shared commitment to making a difference in their communities, volunteering nearly 60,000 hours. The Foundation expanded its giving impact this year by investing nearly $5 million in grant funding to 400 nonprofit organizations across its eight-state service area. These grant recipients align with the Foundation’s three primary focus areas: STEM career pathways, community vitality and environmental sustainability.

The company’s 2025 Day of Service engaged 2,900 volunteers who committed nearly 8,900 hours to support 99 nonprofit projects. Among the many other impacts of these projects, volunteers packed 81,600 meals for hunger relief efforts in local communities and assembled 6,600 kits to support teachers and students during the school year. The Power Your Purpose Giving Campaign raised nearly $2.8 million to support 1,400 organizations.

ALLIANT ENERGY TO BUILD A 75-MEGAWATT ENERGY STORAGE PROJECT IN LATIMER, IOWA

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:46:49 GMT

Construction on the Whispering Willow North Battery Energy Storage System” (BESS) project in Franklin County, Iowa, is underway. According to Alliant Energy, installation of the electrical conduits and concrete foundations is underway for the 75-MW BESS. This critical first step is required to safely interconnect and then operate the BESS for about 20 years.

“Battery storage systems are essential to meeting growing energy demand, boosting the reliability of the grid,” said Dave Herkert, AVP of Strategic Projects at Alliant Energy. “By storing excess energy and releasing it to the grid during times of need, battery storage plays a critical part of our long-term plan to expand capacity and maintain reliability while keeping customer bills as low as possible.”

The project, located at the intersection of Eagle Avenue and 170^th Street in Latimer within Franklin County, will be constructed on a portion of a site that’s just over 9 acres, just south of Alliant Energy's existing substation. Construction involves civil preparation of the site, installation of equipment foundations, battery containers, power conversion systems, and related equipment, wiring, and conduit to support their function. Auxiliary transformers, switchboards, light poles and perimeter fencing will also be installed before the BESS is placed into operation in late 2026.

WE ENERGIES PURCHASES LARGE SOLAR, WIND PROJECTS

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 02:03:44 GMT

The state Public Service Commission has approved the WE Energies purchase of four large wind, solar and battery projects totaling over 450 megawatts.

(The four projects approved by the commission will provide more than 450 megawatts of energy, according to We Energies, or enough to power around 150,000 homes. We Energies expects the projects to come online in 2027 and 2028.)

Two of the projects include the 200-megawatt Ursa Solar Park in Columbia County and Wood County's 150-megawatt Saratoga Solar Energy Center. The Wood County facility will also include a 50-megawatt battery storage plant.

The commission also approved the Whitetail Wind Farm in Grant County and the Badger Hollow Wind Farm in Iowa and Grant counties. These facilities will provide up to 185 megawatts.

We Energies will own the majority of each facility. The rest is split between Madison Gas & Electric and the Wisconsin Public Service Corporation, another subsidiary of We Energies.

“The new projects will serve customers year-round and are expected to provide customers millions of dollars in fuel cost and federal tax credit savings," according to We Energies’ President, Mike Hooper.

WEC ENERGY GROUP ANNOUNCES PLAN TO INCREASE DIVIDEND

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 02:02:15 GMT

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has announced that it is planning to raise the quarterly dividend on the company's common stock to 95.25 cents per share in the first quarter of 2026. This would represent an increase of 6.0 cents per share, or 6.7 percent.

The directors expect to declare the new dividend at their regularly scheduled meeting in January. The dividend — which would be equivalent to an annual rate of $3.81 per share — would be payable March 1, 2026, to stockholders of record on February 13, 2026.

"The board's review today is consistent with our ongoing plan targeting a dividend payout ratio of 65 to 70 percent of earnings," said Scott Lauber, president and CEO. "The projected dividend for 2026 is in line with the company's objective to grow the dividend at a 6.5 to 7 percent compound annual rate."

In addition, the company introduced earnings guidance for 2026. “Calendar year 2026 earnings are expected to be in a range of $5.51 to $5.61 per share, which is consistent with our short-term projected EPS growth guidance. Our long-term EPS growth over the next five years is projected to be 7 to 8 percent on a compound annual basis,” he said.

WISCONSIN GOVERNOR APPOINTS NEW WEDC CEO

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 01:58:39 GMT

Governor Tony Evers has announced that he has appointed John W. Miller to serve as Secretary and CEO of the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, effective December 15, 2025. The position became vacant after former secretary-CEO Missy Hughes resigned earlier this fall to pursue a campaign for governor.

Miller previously worked in public service for Wisconsin’s 4th Congressional District, later led his family’s agricultural equipment company Miller-St. Nazianz Inc., and founded Arenberg Holdings, a Milwaukee venture capital firm. He holds a law degree from the University of Wisconsin and has served on several nonprofit and community boards.

XCEL ENERGY IMPACTED BY MAJOR WINTER STORMS IN NORTHERN WISCONSIN AND MICHIGAN’S U.P.

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 01:42:40 GMT

Xcel Energy crews safely restored power to customers after a winter storm with heavy, wet snow and high winds swept across northern Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan in late November, creating widespread outages and damage to trees, poles and power lines. About 14,000 customers were affected, mainly in Manitowish Waters and Hayward, Wisconsin areas and Ironwood, Michigan.

MGE PLANS TO ADD MORE SOLAR AND BATTERY STORAGE

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 01:41:34 GMT

Madison Gas and Electric has filed a joint application with State regulators to add more than 85 megawatts (MW) of solar capacity and 18 MW of battery storage to its generation portfolio.

These projects represent the latest investments in MGE's efforts to continue reducing carbon as quickly and cost-effectively as possible.

The company said, “With our current plans, by 2030, it will have added more than 40 renewable generation and battery storage projects since 2015, totaling more than 750 MW, propelling the company toward its goal of net-zero carbon electricity by 2050.”

ESTIMATED IMPACT OF VARIOUS SOLAR PROJECTS PROPOSED OR COMPLETED IN CENTRAL WISCONSIN

Wed, 07 Jan 2026 01:39:22 GMT

Several solar projects have been proposed, approved, or completed in central Wisconsin. The arrays cover hundreds of acres of former farm, prairie, and forest land with hundreds of thousands of roughly 17-square-foot modular photovoltaic panels with the capacity to produce electricity for tens of thousands of homes.

Here is a summary of the current status of these projects:

Vista Sands Solar Farm

Developer: Doral Renewables

Location: town of Plover, town of Grant, and village of Plover in Portage County

Project area: 9,500 acres

Generation capacity: 1.2 gigawatts, equal to the demand of 200,000 average Wisconsin homes

Construction start date: second quarter 2026

Date of activation: by the end of 2028

Annual payment in lieu of property taxes to local governments: $6.5 million total − town of Plover: $758,767, town of Grant: $1,955,633, town of Buena Vista: $140,400 and Portage County: $3,712,800

When completed, the Vista Sands Solar Farm project will be the largest solar array project in Wisconsin and among the largest in the country. Solar farm development is anticipated to take 56 high capacity wells out of normal operation and will greatly reduce the estimated 3 million pounds of fertilizer and 73,000 gallons of insecticide currently spread across the project area every year.

Saratoga Solar

Developer: Invenergy

Contracted purchaser: We Energies

Location: town of Saratoga in Wood County

Project area: 825 acres

Generation capacity: 150.5 megawatts, or 28,000 Wisconsin homes

Construction start date: spring 2026

Date of activation: spring 2028

Annual payment to local governments: $602,000 total − town of Saratoga: $250,833 and Wood County: $351,167

The Saratoga Solar project is a mirrored version of a project completed in 2022 on an adjacent property. Work to prepare the project site is underway, including pouring foundations and working with local officials on an emergency response plan, with construction set to begin in spring 2026, according to an Invenergy spokesperson.

Invenergy has completed 12 energy projects across eight counties in Wisconsin with an inventory of generation units including natural gas, energy storage, solar and wind, according to an Invenergy spokesperson. These projects contribute more than $20.8 million annually in local revenue and land costs across the state.

Wood County Solar

Developer: Alliant Energy

Location: Town of Saratoga

Project area: 1,200 acres

Generation capacity: 150 megawatts, or 40,000 homes

Construction start date: July 2021

Date of activation: late summer 2022

Annual payment to local governments: $600,000 total − town of Saratoga: $250,000 and Wood County: $350,000

Wood County Solar was the first of the two utility-scale solar projects in the town of Saratoga for which former Kansas-based developer Savion received initial approvals from the Public Service Commission before Alliant and Invenergy acquired each project.

Portage Solar

Developer: Geronimo Power (formerly National Grid Renewables)

Contracted purchaser: Microsoft

Location: towns of Grant and Plover in Portage County

Project area: 2,167 acres

Generation capacity: 250 megawatts

Construction start date: April 14, 2025

Date of activation: late 2026

Annual payment to local governments: $1 million total − town of Grant: $75,000, town of Plover: $341,667 and Portage County: $583,332

The Portage Solar project received its initial approval in April 2023. The company has announced a power purchase agreement with Microsoft. The company also days about $1.25 million to be committed over the first 20 years of the project’s life to a “community charity fund,” which will support local nonprofit groups and community initiatives.

Wautoma Solar Project

Developer: Alliant Energy

Location: city of Wautoma and town of Dakota in Waushara County

Project area: 624 acres

Generation capacity: 99 megawatts, or 26,000 homes

Construction start date: July 2022

Date of activation: December 2023

Annual payment to local governments: about $400,000 split between town of Dakota, city of Wautoma and Waushara County

The Wautoma Solar project was completed by Alliant Energy in December 2023 as a part of the company’s “Clean Energy Blueprint.” The initiative led to construction of 12 utility-scale solar projects built by the utility company in recent years including the first array in the town of Saratoga in Wood County.

PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION APPROVES TRANSMISSION CONNECTION

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:08:28 GMT

Xcel Energy has received approval from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to move forward with the Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection (WWTC) project. The new 345-kilovolt (kV) transmission line is a key step to delivering continued electric reliability and connecting Wisconsin’s electric grid to a growing network of low-cost renewable energy across the Upper Midwest.

“The WWTC project represents a critical investment in Wisconsin’s energy future,” according to Karl Hoesly, President, Xcel Energy – Wisconsin and Michigan. “It reflects years of collaboration with communities and regulators to ensure a stronger, more resilient grid that can serve customers reliably for decades to come.”

Once complete, the WWTC project will enhance Xcel Energy’s Wisconsin transmission network and support ongoing grid improvements across the Upper Midwest, ensuring customers continue to receive reliable, low-cost power as demand grows. The roughly 80-mile transmission line will connect new and existing substations, beginning near Blair in Trempealeau County, connecting to a substation near Eau Claire, and linking to an existing 345-kV line near Owen in Clark County.

Once complete, the WWTC will provide a strong connection to Wisconsin’s 345-kV transmission network, helping enhance the reliability, efficiency and delivery of energy to customers in the region.

WWTC also represents one segment of the Midcontinent Independent System Operator’s (MISO) Tranche 1 portfolio — a series of transmission projects designed to expand access to renewable energy and improve reliability across the Midwest. WWTC will interconnect with new and existing transmission lines under development in southern Minnesota, western Wisconsin and central Wisconsin, further strengthening the regional grid and advancing the transition to a cleaner energy future.

ALLIANT ENERGY’S LARGEST BATTERY ENERGY STORAGE SYSTEM NOW OPERATIONAL

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:07:21 GMT

Alliant Energy’s first 100-megawatt battery energy storage system (BESS) is now operational in southwest Wisconsin. The battery captures and stores excess energy generated by solar and other resources, releasing the energy to the grid when needed. It sits next to Alliant’s 200-MW solar project in Grant County.

“Energy storage systems, like this one, complement our existing generation resources and serve as an incredibly important step toward creating a more intelligent and resilient grid,” David de Leon, president of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company, said in a statement. “The combination of BESS and solar is a critical part of our balanced energy portfolio. Collectively, they offer enormous potential, adding value and flexibility, while ensuring the availability of reliable and cost-effective energy for our customers.”

The battery system can power over 100,000 homes for up to four hours on a single charge. Expanding into battery storage is part of Alliant Energy’s Energy Blueprint, a roadmap for advancing and balancing energy options.

ENBRIDGE PIPELINE REROUTE FINALLY APPROVED

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:06:38 GMT

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has finally approved energy company Enbridge’s plans to reroute an aging oil pipeline around a northern Wisconsin tribal reservation.

Enbridge plans to build a new 41-mile (66-kilometer) pipeline segment around the reservation of the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa. The tribe and environmentalists had wanted the pipeline off reservation land, but the Army Corps of Engineers has now approved the separate federal permit.

LAKE WISCONSIN IMPROVEMENT PROJECT GRANTS APPLICATION WINDOW

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:05:43 GMT

The application window for the Prairie du Sac Dam Aquatic Resources Enhancement Fund opened November 1, 2025, and runs through January 31, 2026.

This grant program supports initiatives to enhance the ecological health and biodiversity of the Wisconsin River and surrounding aquatic ecosystems. As part of its commitment to environmental stewardship and community engagement, Alliant Energy invites eligible organizations to apply for grants to enhance the sustainable preservation of this vital natural resource.

“The Prairie du Sac Hydroelectric Dam plays a significant role in flood control, managing water levels and supporting nearby recreational activities,” said Jake Hebl, manager of renewable assets at Alliant Energy. “We are proud to be an Aquatic Resources Enhancement Fund partner and promoting environmental stewardship.”

SOLAR PROJECTS FACING COMMUNITY OPPOSITION

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:03:18 GMT

Several solar energy projects across Wisconsin are facing community pushback, including two large projects being opposed by local governments. Town officials in northeast and central Wisconsin communities have come out against two utility-scale solar projects proposed in their communities. And village officials in south central Wisconsin delayed a vote on a small solar project after an hours-long public hearing.

The debate comes as a bill in the state Legislature would require local governments sign off on major solar or wind projects in their communities before state regulators.

Two of the big projects facing pushback include Fox Solar Project in the town of Morgan in Oconto County, and the Akron Solar Project in the town of Rome in Adams County and the town of Saratoga in Wood County. Both are being developed by Florida-based NextEra Energy Resources and require state approval but not local approval.

The Fox Solar Project would generate 100 megawatts, while the Akron Solar Project would generate 200 megawatts. For context, 100 megawatts of solar energy can power around 15,332 homes in Wisconsin.

$1.4B TRANSMISSION LINE PROJECT PROPOSED FOR PORT WASHINGTON DATA CENTER

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 17:00:54 GMT

A $1.4 billion transmission line project is being proposed to help support a planned data center development in Port Washington. American Transmission Company wants to build new transmission lines, rebuild existing lines, and build new substations across several counties, according to a recent application with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. The project would help meet the energy demand for a data center development in Port Washington.

“The Project is needed to reliably serve a load interconnection request by We Energies to serve a new large load addition in the Port Washington area,” the application said.

The four data center buildings are expected to need 1.3 gigawatts of electricity. The developer behind the project is Vantage Data Centers.

ALLIANT ENERGY & QTS DATA CENTERS ADD RENEWABLE GENERATION IN WISCONSIN

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:58:37 GMT

Alliant Energy and QTS Data Centers (“QTS”) have announced an agreement in principle to expand renewable energy resources across Wisconsin, lowering the cost for Alliant Energy’s planned renewable facilities. This proposed agreement will be facilitated by the sale of Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) from approximately 750 megawatts of new renewable energy sources, which will help meet the growing energy needs of Wisconsin and support sustainable growth across the state, all while providing long-term benefits for Alliant Energy customers.

“As an essential service provider in communities across Wisconsin, we take great pride in meeting customers’ energy needs as cost-effectively as possible,” said Raja Sundararajan, Executive Vice President Strategy and Customer Solutions, Alliant Energy. “Based on projections and identified trends, adding a mix of energy generation to our balanced portfolio, including wind, natural gas and energy storage, will serve increasing customer energy demands and ensure reliability.”

The partnership supports the addition of new renewable energy necessary for economic development across Wisconsin and enables Alliant Energy to lower costs of planned renewable facilities, bringing benefits to customers.

WE ENERGIES WANTS TO ADD 3GW TO THE ELECTRIC GRID TO HELP MEET DATA CENTER DEMAND

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:57:42 GMT

To meet expected surges in energy demand from data centers, We Energies is asking state regulators to approve a multi-billion-dollar plan to add almost 3 gigawatts of power to the electric grid.

The utility plans to build and take ownership stakes in seven planned solar projects and one battery project. It also wants to do the same with two new natural gas power plants, as well as to make upgrades to existing power facilities.

Those plans need to be approved by the state Public Service Commission. We Energies says the renewable projects will send energy to the grid every day while the natural gas plants will be used primarily during peak demand times.

$700M NATURAL GAS PIPELINE UPGRADE COMES ONLINE IN WISCONSIN

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:52:10 GMT

A $700 million natural gas pipeline enhancement project designed to improve reliability and meet rising demand came online in Wisconsin and northern Illinois at the start of the month.

TC Energy, a Canadian company with a U.S. headquarters in Texas, announced the completion of the project last month.

The “Wisconsin Reliability Project” replaced about 51 miles of aging pipeline across Wisconsin and northern Illinois with modern infrastructure. The company said the change would improve safety and reliability.

TC Energy also upgraded natural gas compression facilities in Kewaskum and Weyauwega, as well as meter stations in Lena, Merrill, Oshkosh, South Wausau, Stevens Point, and Two Rivers. The company received approvals from federal regulators for the project in 2023 and 2024. Construction began last year, and the project came into service on November 1.

XCEL TO BUILD MASSIVE ENERGY STORAGE FACILITY

Mon, 01 Dec 2025 16:49:27 GMT

Xcel Energy plans to build the Midwest’s largest battery energy storage site at the Sherco Energy Hub in central Minnesota. The project is among a series of investments that will strengthen the region’s energy security and expand the company’s investment at Sherco and beyond.

“We’re making a significant investment in battery storage because we see it as a critical part of Minnesota’s energy future,” according to Bria Shea, President of Xcel Energy-Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. “Batteries help us store energy when it’s inexpensive to produce and dispatch it when needed, allowing us to continue delivering reliable electricity to customers while keeping bills low.”

The proposal, filed with the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, will:

Double the amount of battery storage adjacent to the Sherco coal plant in Becker, which is scheduled to retire by the end of 2030. The Commission previously approved 300 megawatts of storage. The new proposal increases the capacity to 600 megawatts.
Add 135.5 megawatts of battery storage at the company’s Blue Lake facility in Shakopee.
Expand the company’s Sherco Solar facility with an additional 200-megawatt solar array in Clear Lake Township.

If approved, the company intends to start construction on the battery storage projects in 2026, with the batteries serving customers by late 2027. The projects will use lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cell technology, which has a strong track record for reliability and safety. LFP batteries discharge energy in four-hour increments and are quick to recharge, allowing for regular use.

ALLIANT ENERGY ANNOUNCES THIRD QUARTER RESULTS

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:54:08 GMT

Alliant Energy has announced U.S. generally accepted accounting principles consolidated unaudited earnings per share of $1.09 for the third quarter of 2025, compared to $1.15 for the same quarter in 2024. The ongoing earnings per share for the third quarter were $1.12, compared to $1.15 in the same quarter in 2024.

For the first nine months of 2025, Alliant Energy reported EPS of $2.59, a 23.3 percent increase from $2.10 for the same period in 2024. The ongoing EPS for the first nine months of 2025 were $2.62, a 12.4 percent increase from $2.33 in the same period in 2024. Based on results for the first nine months of 2025, ongoing earnings per share guidance was narrowed to $3.17 to $3.23, with full year 2025 earnings trending toward the upper-half of this range.

Alliant Energy’s utilities Interstate Power and Light Company (IPL) and Wisconsin Power and Light Company (WPL) now have 3 gigawatts of contracted demand from data centers with the inclusion of the recently executed electric service agreement (ESA) for 900 megawatts for the QTS Madison site. With the signed agreement, Alliant Energy expects its peak energy demand to grow an industry leading 50 percent by 2030. The energy resources to serve this expected load, while maintaining safe and reliable service to all customers, have increased the Company’s forecasted capital expenditures for 2026 - 2029 to $13.4 billion.

The Company announced 2026 earnings guidance at $3.36 to $3.46 per share, continuing its strong 10-year track record of compound annual earnings growth of 6%. Also, Alliant Energy has increased its 2026 expected annual common stock dividend target to $2.14 per share.

MGE ENERGY REPORTS THIRD-QUARTER 2025 EARNINGS

Fri, 07 Nov 2025 00:47:13 GMT

MGE Energy's third-quarter 2025 earnings were $44.5 million, or $1.22 per share, a year-over-year increase from $40.9 million, or $1.13 per share, in the third quarter of 2024. The increase was driven by rate base investment growth, particularly from new renewable energy projects, and non-utility investment gains. The company reported quarterly revenue of $175.7 million.

WEC ENERGY GROUP DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:37:15 GMT

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.8925 cents per share on the company's common stock.

The dividend is payable December 1, 2025, to stockholders of record on November 14, 2025. This marks the 333rd consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

MGE ENERGY DECLARES REGULAR DIVIDEND

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:35:45 GMT

The Board of Directors of MGE Energy has declared the regular quarterly dividend of $0.4750 per share on the outstanding shares of the company's common stock, payable December 15, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business December 1, 2025.

MGE Energy has increased its dividend annually for the past 50 years and has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.

PRAIRIE ISLAND NUCLEAR PLANT REFUELS TO CONTINUE PRODUCING CLEAN, RELIABLE ENERGY

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:34:51 GMT

Workers at Xcel Energy’s Prairie Island Minnesota Nuclear Plant have completed a weeks-long refueling and maintenance effort, allowing the facility to continue providing reliable, carbon-free energy for more than one million customers throughout the Upper Midwest and remain an economic engine for the region.

During the refueling, nearly 500 specialists joined the plant’s full-time workforce. The work helped set up the plant for a future extension of its operations, which will play an important part in achieving Minnesota’s clean energy goals.

“Nuclear energy is essential to achieving Minnesota’s vision to power communities with 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2040,” according to Ryan Long, President, Xcel Energy – Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. “Our continued investment in nuclear ensures we can provide reliable, always-available clean energy to customers across the Upper Midwest for many years to come.”

Refueling happens every two years for each of the two units at Prairie Island. While Prairie Island’s Unit 2 is out of service, refueling and plant maintenance will improve equipment and plant reliability and help ensure that the plant continues to provide safe, clean and reliable power to the region. During this outage, Unit 1 will continue operations to provide electricity to customers.

Together, Prairie Island and Xcel Energy’s nuclear plants at Monticello provide 23 percent of the total electricity that the company’s customers use in the Upper Midwest.

NEW 100 MW BATTERY NOW STORING, RELEASING ENERGY IN GRANT COUNTY

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:30:40 GMT

Alliant Energy has announced the successful integration of its first 100-megawatt Battery Energy Storage System (BESS). Placed next to the company’s 200-MW solar project in Grant County, the newly operational battery captures and stores excess energy generated by solar and other resources, then releases the energy to the grid, as needed.

“Energy storage systems, like this one, complement our existing generation resources and serve as an incredibly important step toward creating a more intelligent and resilient grid,” according to David de Leon, President of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company. “The combination of BESS and solar is a critical part of our balanced energy portfolio. Collectively, they offer enormous potential, adding value and flexibility, while ensuring the availability of reliable and cost-effective energy for our customers.”

When demand is low, excess electricity is stored by the battery and then released when needed. The BESS system in the Town of Potosi within Grant County can power over 100,000 homes for up to four hours on a single charge.

With battery technology advancing by leaps and bounds, energy storage installations are escalating and setting new records in the United States – and saving customers money. A recent analysis showed releasing stored energy when the grid needs it most saved Texans an estimated $750 million. Similarly, Alliant Energy customers could expect savings through avoided costs as additional BESS projects become operational.

Energy storage infrastructure is a newer part of Alliant Energy's strategy and a key part of bolstering their investments in renewable energy. Battery storage positions Alliant Energy to meet demand, reduce the need for traditional power grid updates, and ensures preparedness for outages and severe weather.

RENEWABLE ENERGY CAN QUICKLY RESPOND TO DATA CENTER POWER DEMANDS

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:29:13 GMT

Wind and solar power are well-positioned to quickly respond to the increasing load data centers are putting on Wisconsin’s electrical grid, a renewable energy expert argues.

Wisconsin has become a hotbed of data center activity over the past few years, underscored by Microsoft’s more than $7 billion in investments in the southeastern region of the state. Increasing demand on the electrical grid is normal, but data centers are only adding to that demand. The Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory predicts data center electricity consumption will grow from 176 terawatt hours in 2023 to between 325 and 580 terawatt hours in 2028, which would represent 6.7 percent to 12.0 percent of annual U.S. electrical consumption.

David Neely, EDP Renewables’ Senior Director of Development for the central region, said wind and solar power is better positioned than other power generation sources to quickly respond to those demands.

“If you just think simple supply and demand, we do support, kind of an all-in approach for what these utilities can get online. It’s what they need to get online, because there’s a rush to do capacity,” he said. “Renewables is a big, important factor in that.”

Some wind and solar projects can be built and come online in as little as a year, Neely said. That’s compared to roughly four years for traditional natural gas and coal-powered plants, according to International Energy Association data. The same IEA data also shows roughly two-and-a-half years to bring renewable projects online, though.

Wisconsin’s goal to have all electricity consumed be 100 percent carbon-free by 2050 is also an attraction for both data center and renewable investment, Neely said.

NEW INNOVATIVE REPAIR PLANS AVAILABLE TO ALLIANT ENERGY CUSTOMERS

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:28:08 GMT

Alliant Energy announces a partnership with HomeServe, a leading home solutions provider, to make home repair plans available to customers in Iowa and Wisconsin. This optional program is designed to ease the burden of unexpected home repairs, offering peace of mind and financial relief for homeowners.

“Unexpected home repairs can be a big disruption to daily routines and a financial hardship for many homeowners, creating stress and unexpected work,” said Aimee Davis, VP of Communications, Marketing & Customer Operations at Alliant Energy. “Through our partnership with HomeServe, our customers will benefit from a cost-effective solution that helps them safeguard their homes. Guided by our purpose driven strategy, this initiative underscores our dedication to serving our customers."

The optional repair plans offered by HomeServe cover repairs to customer-owned natural gas lines and electrical equipment that connect their homes to Alliant Energy’s systems. The plans cover repairs when equipment fails or is damaged from normal wear and tear.

CHIPPEWA FLOWAGE PARTNERS DO MODIFIED HABITAT-BASED DRAWDOWN

Mon, 03 Nov 2025 18:26:55 GMT

A management program aimed at controlling aquatic invasive plants and improving fish habitat has gotten underway on the Chippewa Flowage. As a result, local residents and property owners will begin to notice a slow, but significant, change in water levels.

Based on the recommendation of the Chippewa Flowage Partner group, Xcel Energy began a drawdown of the flowage to aid in the reduction of the invasive Eurasian Water Milfoil. The recommendation to conduct the drawdown this fall was made based on aquatic plant surveys and on-water observations of resource conditions in the flowage, specifically an over-abundance of aquatic invasive species and the potential fisheries benefits received.

The fall drawdown will bring the level of the reservoir down to about 1,309 feet by mid-November. The 15,300-acre reservoir currently has an elevation of 1,310.56 feet above sea level. It is considered full at 1,313.0. Following ice up, the drawdown will resume through early March when the water level will be about 1,305 feet above sea level. If minimal snow is received during the winter months, the drawdown depth will likely be minimized due to concerns with refilling in the spring. If heavy snowfall is received during the winter months, a deeper drawdown may occur. During spring runoff, the water level will gradually be restored to normal elevation. Precipitation and inflow from tributary rivers and streams will determine how quickly this happens.

Xcel Energy Third Quarter 2025 Earnings Report

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 19:29:29 GMT

Xcel Energy Inc. has reported 2025 third quarter GAAP earnings of $524 million, or $0.88 per share, compared with $682 million, or $1.21 per share in the same period in 2024 and ongoing earnings of $737 million, or $1.24 per share compared with $707 million or $1.25 per share in the same period in 2024.
Third quarter ongoing earnings reflect higher depreciation, interest charges and O&M expenses partially offset by increased recovery of infrastructure investments.
“Today Xcel Energy unveiled our updated five-year infrastructure investment plan to serve increased energy demand from our communities, continue progress towards carbon reduction goals for our electric system and make needed investments to strengthen our transmission and distribution systems,” said Bob Frenzel, chairman, president and CEO of Xcel Energy.

See entire article from Xcel Energy on their website here:

https://investors.xcelenergy.com/news-events/news-releases/news-details/2025/Xcel-Energy-Third-Quarter-2025-Earnings-Report/default.aspx

WEC Energy Group Third Quarter Results

Fri, 31 Oct 2025 19:24:09 GMT

WEC Energy Group has reported third-quarter profits of $271.6 million. The company had a net income of $0.83 per share. The company posted revenues of $2.1 billion in the period, also exceeding Street forecasts. WEC Energy expects full-year earnings in the range of $5.17 to $5.27 per share.

LAKE GENEVA WELCOMES THE 2025 ANNUAL MEETING OF MEMBERS

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 19:15:34 GMT

The 45th Annual Meeting of Members was held at The Cove of Lake Geneva followed by a historic boat tour aboard The Lady of the Lake, the flagship boat of the Lake Geneva Cruise Line.

Notably, at this year’s business meeting, two current board members chose to not seek re-election, stepping down off the board, and three new nominees to the board were voted in. Chair of the nomination committee, Don Reck, stepped down after serving on the board for six years, and Lynne English after serving two years. Mr. Reck’s final official business in his role as nomination committee chair was to bring three new board members into service by a vote of the membership. Robert Bartlett, formerly Director of Community Affairs at Alliant Energy, Andrew (Andy) Hesselbach, a recently retired former Senior Vice President with WEC Energy Group, and Scott Patulsky, who served as We-Energies Vice President of Fossil Operations among many other engineering leadership positions, were all voted onto the board of directors.

A panel of company lobbyists updated the crowd on the latest developments, lamenting the current political polarization that has made finding consensus on important issues extremely difficult.

Keynote speaker Bert Garvin, Vice President, External Affairs at WEC Energy Group, reviewed his company’s current and future plans. He told members the company expects EPS future growth of between 6.5 and 8 percent. Many questions concerned the proposed data centers and their potential impacts on customers. He said the company expects to deliver the best risk-adjusted returns in the industry. The utilities are in agreement that the new data centers are a positive generation driver, the costs of which will not be passed along to the consumer. The data center will employ environmentally conscious technology which will minimize any environmental impact. Please see the “WEC Energy Group Preparing for Additional 1800 MW...” article at the end of this newsletter for more information.

Following the meeting, members were treated to a boat tour of Lake Geneva.

ALLIANT ENERGY NAMED A TOP UTILITY IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 19:04:46 GMT

Site Selector Magazine announced for the seventh consecutive year that Alliant Energy has earned their Top Utility in Economic Development honor. The annual list recognizes the company for its contributions to local community development and job creation.

In its September issue, Site Selection credits Alliant Energy’s economic development team, in collaboration with local, regional and state economic development partners in Iowa and Wisconsin, for delivering nearly $3.9 billion in new capital investment and creating more than 2,410 new jobs in 2024.

“Alliant Energy is once again proud to be honored as a top utility in economic development,” said May Farlinger, President – Alliant Energy's Iowa energy company and Vice President of Energy Delivery. “Economic development is a critical component to supporting our purpose driven strategy to build strong communities and serve customers.”

ATC AGAIN RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO WORK

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 18:58:33 GMT

American Transmission Company has been awarded its #4 ranking on FORTUNE Magazine’s Best Workplaces in Manufacturing & Production 2025 list. Fortune’s Best Workplaces lists highlight organizations excelling in creating positive, inclusive and engaging work environments.  

Ranking in the top five is a reflection of ATC’s commitment to creating a workplace that supports employees professionally and personally, placing value on teamwork, engagement and development.  This year, 91 percent of survey participants affirmed that ATC is a Great Place to Work, compared to 57 percent at a typical U.S. company.

XCEL ENERGY NAMES NEW COMMUNITY RELATIONS MANAGER

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 18:51:15 GMT

Xcel Energy has named Lynn Hall as the new Community Relations manager for northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. She succeeds Ken Disher, who retired after 35 years of service with the company.

A lifelong Ashland resident, Hall brings more than 25 years of experience in project management and community outreach to her new role. She most recently served as an Environmental Analyst responsible for Xcel Energy’s facilities in northern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, which included the Bay Front Power Plant and three hydroelectric plants.

Prior to joining Xcel Energy, Hall worked as an environmental manager with the Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa, and previously with the City of Ashland, where she oversaw operations of the city’s water and wastewater treatment plants.

Hall holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Wisconsin-Superior.

“We’re excited to have Lynn lead our local Community Relations and Economic Development efforts in the region,” said Brian Elwood, regional vice president, Customer and Community Relations. “Her deep knowledge of our operations and the area make her exceptionally well-suited for this role.”

Area residents may also recognize Hall for her long-standing leadership of the peregrine falcon program at the Bay Front Power Plant. In partnership with the Raptor Resource Project and local schools, the program has successfully hatched, banded and monitored 37 peregrine falcon chicks since 2014.

ALLIANT ENERGY SUBMITS SETTLEMENT ON FUTURE WISCONSIN RATES

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 18:36:06 GMT

Alliant Energy has filed, with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, a unanimous settlement agreement regarding electric and natural gas rates in Wisconsin for 2026 and 2027. Alliant Energy reached this settlement with all of the intervening parties who represent a broad array of stakeholders, including Blacks for Political and Social Action of Dane County (BPSA), Citizens Utility Board (CUB), Clean Wisconsin, International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 965 (IBEW), RENEW Wisconsin, Wisconsin Industrial Energy Group (WIEG) and Walmart.

“The settlement filed with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin reflects the collaborative effort among stakeholders to advance Alliant Energy’s commitment to provide cost-effective, reliable energy to customers,” according to David de Leon, President of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company. “We appreciate the thoughtful, transparent engagement and are confident our balanced energy mix, along with increased customer offerings, will help grow the communities we serve while also powering customers forward.”

NON-UTILITY BIOGAS COMPANY FILES FOR BANKRUPTCY

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 18:15:03 GMT

A biogas company in Brown County that processes food waste and cow manure into methane sold for energy purposes has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection.

NLC Energy Denmark LLC, which has a plant in Denmark, Wisconsin, is seeking to restructure around $76 million in secured debt, according to documents filed August 16th in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.

The filing follows years of financial and technical difficulties for the biogas developer which has seen operating losses of approximately $1 million per month, court records showed.

NLC Energy Denmark was established in 2008, as NEW Organic Digestion LLC, with an existing food waste digester that produced biomethane used to make electricity that it sold.

WEC ENERGY GROUP PREPARING FOR ADDITIONAL 1,800 MW ADDITIONAL DEMAND THROUGH 2029

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 17:49:40 GMT

“The most important thing for people in Wisconsin to know is that we’re fully on track with construction on our data center in Mt. Pleasant, it’s still expected to go online in 2026, and our $3.3 billion commitment remains intact. We are committed to our projects to help prepare the workforce and Wisconsin manufacturers for the future.” – Microsoft Spokesperson, March 2025.

As Brad Smith, Vice Chair and President at Microsoft explained, what makes this datacenter distinctive isn’t just its scale or speed — it’s how thoughtfully it’s built, with both people and the planet in mind. From day one, sustainability has been central to its design.

More than 90 percent of the facility will rely on a state-of-the-art closed-loop liquid cooling system, filled during construction and recirculated continuously. The remaining portion of the facility will use outside air for cooling, switching to water only on the hottest days, minimizing environmental impact and maximizing operational efficiency. The result is a technological milestone — a datacenter with enough fiber cable to circle the Earth four times, yet its annual water use is modest, requiring roughly the amount of water a typical restaurant uses annually or what an 18-hole golf course consumes weekly in peak summer.

We appreciate that energy prices are increasing across the country and have worked hard to ensure our datacenter will not drive-up costs for our neighbors. That’s why we’re pre-paying for the energy and electrical infrastructure that we’ll use — ensuring prices remain stable and protecting consumers from future cost increases because of our datacenter.

WEC ENERGY GROUP REPORTS SECOND-QUARTER RESULTS & DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 13:24:45 GMT

WEC Energy Group reports second-quarter results

WEC Energy Group has reported net income of $245.4 million, or 76 cents per share, for the second quarter of 2025 — up from $211.3 million, or 67 cents per share, in last year's second quarter.

For the first six months of 2025, the company recorded net income of $969.6 million, or $3.02 per share — up from $833.6 million, or $2.64 per share, in the corresponding period a year ago. Consolidated revenues totaled $5.2 billion, up $706.8 million from the first half of 2024.

"A warm start to the summer, steady execution of our capital plan and a continued focus on operating efficiency were major factors that shaped a strong quarter," according to Scott Lauber, President and CEO.

Retail deliveries of electricity – excluding the iron ore mine in Michigan's Upper Peninsula — were up by 1.0 percent in the second quarter of 2025, compared to the second quarter last year.

Electricity consumption by small commercial and industrial customers was 0.6 percent higher. Electricity use by large commercial and industrial customers — excluding the iron ore mine — increased by 0.8 percent. Residential electricity use rose by 1.6 percent.

On a weather-normal basis, retail deliveries of electricity during the second quarter of this year — excluding the iron ore mine — increased by 1.1 percent.

The company is reaffirming its 2025 earnings guidance of $5.17 to $5.27 per share. This assumes normal weather for the remainder of the year.

WEC Energy Group declares quarterly dividend

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 89.25 cents per share on the company's common stock.

The dividend was payable September 1, 2025, to stockholders of record on August 14, 2025. This marks the 332^nd consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

MGE ENERGY REPORTS SECOND-QUARTER EARNINGS & INCREASES DIVIDEND FOR 50TH CONSECUTIVE YEAR

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 13:02:59 GMT

MGE Energy Reports Second-Quarter 2025 Earnings

MGE Energy's GAAP earnings for the second quarter of 2025 were $26.5 million, or $0.73 per share, compared to $23.8 million, or $0.66 per share, for the same period in the prior year. Rate base investment growth and weather impacts drove our second-quarter results.

In the second quarter of 2025, electric net income increased $3.9 million compared to the second quarter of 2024. MGE continues to invest in new, cost-effective renewable generation, supporting the company’s ongoing asset growth. An increase in electric investments included in rate base contributed to higher electric earnings for 2025. In March 2025, the Darien Solar Project in Rock and Walworth counties became operational, followed by the Paris Battery Energy Storage System (BESS), which went into service in June 2025. These additions further enhance electric system reliability and contributed to the increase in electric earnings. MGE owns 25 MW of solar capacity from the Darien Solar Project and 11 MW of battery capacity associated with the Paris BESS project.

For the second quarter of 2025, electric residential sales increased approximately 5 percent, largely driven by warmer-than-normal weather. Gas net income exhibited steady performance, with minimal variation compared to the second quarter of 2024.

MGE Energy Increases Dividend for 50th Consecutive Year

The Board of Directors of MGE Energy has increased the regular quarterly dividend rate 5.6 percent to $0.4750 per share on the outstanding shares of the company’s common stock. The dividend is payable September 15, 2025, to shareholders of record September 1, 2025. This raises the annualized dividend rate by 10 cents from $1.80 per share to $1.90 per share.

"Today’s action by our board marks a milestone that only a select number of companies have achieved of increasing the dividend for 50 consecutive years, reinforcing our commitment to consistent and sustainable dividend growth and signaling the continued strength of MGE Energy’s long-term business strategy for building your community energy company for the future," according to Chairman, President and CEO Jeff Keebler. "MGE Energy continues to focus on our mission to provide safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy and on our disciplined financial management to provide ongoing value to our customers and shareholders."

MGE Energy has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.

XCEL ENERGY SECOND QUARTER 2025 EARNINGS & DIVIDENDS

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 19:02:17 GMT

XCEL Energy Second Quarter 2025 Earnings Report

Xcel Energy has reported 2025 second quarter GAAP earnings of $444 million, or $0.75 per share, compared with $302 million, or $0.54 per share in the same period in 2024. Second quarter ongoing earnings reflect increased recovery of infrastructure investments, partially offset by higher interest charges, depreciation and O&M expenses.

“Xcel Energy continues to deliver on our commitments to our customers, communities and investors,” according to Bob Frenzel, Chairman, President and CEO of Xcel Energy. “During the second quarter, we made considerable progress on investments needed to serve unprecedented growth in electric demand and to improve resiliency and reliability of our systems. In Texas and New Mexico, we filed our recommended portfolio for nearly 5,200 MW of new generation, of which 4,500 MW will be company owned. We also continue to make progress reducing risk from wildfires and extreme weather on our system, with both the Colorado and Texas commissions approving our settlements for our Wildfire Mitigation and System Resiliency Plans.”

Xcel Energy Declares Dividend on Common Stock

The Board of Directors of Xcel Energy has declared a quarterly dividend on its common stock of 57 cents per share. The dividends are payable October 20, 2025, to shareholders of record on September 15, 2025.

ALLIANT ENERGY ANNOUNCES SECOND QUARTER 2025 RESULTS

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:35:05 GMT

Alliant Energy Corporation has announced U.S. generally accepted accounting principles consolidated and non-GAAP consolidated unaudited earnings per share (EPS) for the three months ended June 30 as follows:

Utilities and Corporate Services - Alliant Energy’s Utilities and Alliant Energy Corporate Services, Inc. (Corporate Services) operations generated $0.74 per share of GAAP EPS in the second quarter of 2025, which was $0.41 per share higher than the second quarter of 2024. The primary drivers of higher EPS were items in 2024 not normally associated with ongoing operations and described below in the discussion of non-GAAP adjustments, higher revenue requirements from capital investments, and estimated temperature impacts on retail electric and gas sales. These items were partially offset by higher depreciation and financing expenses.

Non-utility and Parent - Alliant Energy’s Non-utility and Parent operations generated ($0.10) per share of GAAP EPS in the second quarter of 2025, which was $0.07 per share lower than the second quarter of 2024. The lower EPS was primarily driven by lower equity income from corporate venture investments, higher financing expense and timing of income taxes.

“Our solid financial performance this quarter underscores the resilience of our regulated utility model and our ability to advance key operational and strategic initiatives while positioning us for long-term success,” according to Lisa Barton, Alliant Energy President and CEO.

HEARING HELD ON CHALLENGE TO KEY PERMITS FOR ENBRIDGE'S PROJECT TO REROUTE LINE 5

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:21:22 GMT

The Bad River tribe and environmental groups have made their case that the state should overturn key permits issued to Canadian energy firm Enbridge as it seeks to reroute an oil and gas pipeline around the tribe’s reservation.

The state held a contested case hearing in Ashland last month after the tribe, along with Midwest Environmental Advocates and Clean Wisconsin, challenged permits for the project in December. The proceedings will continue through October 3rd.

In separate challenges, the tribe and environmental advocates argued that the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources failed to comply with state law when it granted a wetland and waterway permit along with a construction storm water permit for Enbridge’s Line 5 relocation project.

WISCONSIN DNR POSITION LOSSES CAUSING PERMITTING DELAYS

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 18:12:39 GMT

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has lost 500 positions over roughly two decades, leading to slower permitting times and loss of capacity for habitat management. The head of the agency’s board called the decline a “slow, insidious loss of resources.”

According to Chairman Bill Smith, steady loss of positions combined with inflation means less work being done to protect natural resources and the environment.

“The department is nothing more than a steward that takes care of your resources, your access to the outdoors, your health and welfare,” Smith said. “It’s being affected by this gradual and slow, insidious loss of resources. In very simple terms, every biennial budget, you are losing production (and) you’re losing work.”

Under the current state budget, the DNR is down 500 positions since the beginning of the 2003-05 biennium when it had nearly 2,975 positions, according to the Legislative Fiscal Bureau.

The DNR is authorized to spend more than $1.25 billion under its budget. At the end of the current biennium in 2027, the agency will have nearly 2,474 full-time equivalent employees. That’s the lowest number of authorized positions at the agency since 1981.

ALLIANT KEGONSA RESEARCH CENTER NAMED DUAL-USE PLAN OF THE YEAR

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 28 Aug 2025 17:59:22 GMT

The Kegonsa Research Center has been named 2025 North American Agrivoltaics Dual-Use Plan of the Year. The award recognizes the UW-Madison Kegonsa Research Center Agrivoltaics Field, part of Alliant Energy’s Customer-Hosted Renewables program, for “outstanding excellence in innovation, design, performance and/or function of a planned, but not yet constructed, dual-use (agrivoltaics or ecovoltaics) solar development project.” Agrivoltaics is the use of land for both agriculture and solar generation.

Located on university-owned land just west of Lake Kegonsa, UW-Madison and Alliant Energy partnered on the solar and agricultural research project, raising awareness about opportunities to co-locate renewable energy and agricultural activities.

At maximum output, the 2.25-megawatt solar project is expected to generate enough energy to power more than 450 homes. UW–Madison will receive renewable energy credits generated by the solar project, which will provide proof that power was generated from a renewable energy resource, distributed to the electric grid and the University is entitled to its attributes.

The project is advancing sustainability, research and energy goals by allowing students and faculty to study soil, water, plant and animal interactions between the solar array and its immediate area. These studies will help inform costs and benefits associated with future solar energy projects in Wisconsin and beyond.

The site includes the UW Physical Sciences Lab, a research and development lab that provides a range of services, including the design, fabrication and calibration of scientific instrumentation for research projects.

STATE REGULATORS APPROVE COLUMBIA ENERGY STORAGE PROJECT

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:49:33 GMT

The innovative Columbia Energy Storage Project, a partnership between the co-owners of the Columbia Energy Center near Portage, Wisconsin, has received approval from State regulators.

Energy Dome’s CO2 battery located in Sardinia, Italy.

The Columbia Energy Storage Project is the first long-duration energy storage system of its kind to be developed in the United States. The 18-megawatt project is designed to improve grid stability and deliver enough electricity to power approximately 18,000 homes for 10 hours on a single charge.

The added reliability and dispatchability provided by the project will help to further enable Madison Gas and Electric's (MGE's) ongoing transition toward greater use of carbon-free energy. It also will help to manage long-term customer costs because projects like this one enable the partner utilities to store energy to help meet peak demand.

The project will use a revolutionary closed-loop process, designed by Energy Dome, to take energy from the grid and convert carbon dioxide (CO2) gas into a compressed liquid form for long-term storage. Then, when the stored energy is needed, the system will convert the liquid CO2 back to a gas, which will power a turbine to create electricity.

The project will be built south of Portage in the Town of Pacific, near the current Columbia Energy Center, which is co-owned by Alliant Energy, Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) and MGE. MGE is a minority owner of the power plant. This site allows the use of existing electrical infrastructure while the partners work to advance the next generation of sustainable energy.

Construction is expected to begin in 2026 and be completed by the end of 2027.

GOOGLE TO BUILD ANOTHER DATA CENTER IN IOWA

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:48:53 GMT

Google has hosted a special announcement celebration in Cedar Rapids to officially confirm their data center project at Alliant Energy’s Big Cedar Industrial Center. The project is Google’s second data center location in the state of Iowa: the first is in Council Bluffs.

Two data centers will now occupy space at Big Cedar Industrial Center with both Google and QTS locating at the site. QTS announced their project in February 2025.

Beyond the project confirmation, Google also announced an additional $7 billion investment in Iowa. $6.8 billion has already been invested in the state by the company.

XCEL ENERGY’S UPCOMING ST. PAUL SERVICE CENTER HITS MAJOR CONSTRUCTION MILESTONE

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:48:20 GMT

Xcel Energy has hit a major milestone in the construction of a new service center that will position it to continue to provide safe and reliable energy service across St. Paul. The company has completed the structure of the main building at the site, marking the halfway point in the 320,000-square-foot project. The new service center, which is part of The Heights multi-use development on St. Paul’s East Side, will be about twice the size of the company’s existing service center on Rice Street.

ALLIANT ENERGY FILES PLAN TO ADD 1,000 MEGAWATTS OF WIND GENERATION IN IOWA

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:47:29 GMT

Alliant Energy has filed a plan with the Iowa Utilities Commission to add up to 1,000 megawatts of wind energy generation in Iowa. The proposed expansion is part of the company’s strategy to meet growing energy demand while maintaining reliability and affordability for customers, according to the filing.

“This filing marks a significant step in our commitment to an all-of-the-above approach to energy generation,” said Mayuri Farlinger, president of Alliant Energy’s Iowa energy company and vice president of energy delivery. “By expanding our wind energy portfolio, we’re reinforcing our ability to meet customer demand while delivering reliable and cost-effective energy for customers.”

Alliant Energy said it plans to own and operate the new wind projects, which will contribute to its standing as one of the top five utility owners and operators of regulated wind energy in the United States. The projects are also expected to support construction jobs, provide payments to landowners, and generate new tax revenue for counties where the turbines are located, though a location has not yet been specified.

WE ENERGIES ANNOUNCES UPDATED TIMELINE FOR OAK CREEK PLANT RETIREMENTS

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:46:17 GMT

The coal will be burning at the We Energies plant in Oak Creek a year longer than expected. The company has announced that it will extend the operating life of two coal units at the Oak Creek Power Plant to meet high energy demand periods through the end of 2026. The plant was scheduled to retire at the end of 2025.

WISCONSIN ASSEMBLY SENDS NUCLEAR POWER BILLS TO GOVERNOR

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:45:53 GMT

The Assembly has voted to approve several measures aimed at making Wisconsin the "Silicon Valley" for nuclear power development, showing support for a burgeoning nuclear fusion industry.

One bill would establish a nuclear summit in Wisconsin and establish funding for the event to be hosted in 2028. The Senate approved the bill in June. Another bill would launch a siting study, run by the Public Service Commission, to find the best location for a nuclear power plant to be erected in the Madison area or other areas of the state. The Senate approved that bill in May. The bills have been sent to the Governor for his signature.

DEVELOPER AGREES TO PROTECT PRAIRIE CHICKENS

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:45:15 GMT

The developer behind the largest solar project ever approved in Wisconsin has agreed to a legal settlement with a state conservation group aimed at protecting the habitat of the Greater Prairie Chicken.

The Vista Sands Solar project in Portage County will cover more than 5,000 acres with solar panels, producing enough electricity to power approximately 230,000 homes. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin approved the project late last year.

DIVIDENDS: WEC and Alliant Energy

Wed, 23 Jul 2025 14:42:57 GMT

WEC ENERGY GROUP DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 89.25 cents per share on the company's common stock. The dividend is payable September 2025, to stockholders of record on August 14, 2025. This marks the 332nd consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

ALLIANT ENERGY CORPORATION DECLARES QUARTERLY COMMON STOCK DIVIDEND

The Alliant Energy Corporation (NASDAQ: LNT) Board of Directors today declared a quarterly cash dividend of $0.5075 per share payable on August 15, 2025, to shareowners of record as of the close of business on July 31, 2025. Dividends on common stock have been paid for 319 consecutive quarters since 1946.

STATE'S FIRST LARGE-SCALE BATTERY STORAGE PROJECT NOW SERVING MGE CUSTOMERS

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 16:03:11 GMT

Wisconsin’s first large-scale energy storage project—the Paris Solar-Battery Park in Kenosha County—is now serving Madison Gas and Electric customers.

The 110-megawatt battery portion of the Paris Solar-Battery Park came online in June 2025. The 200-MW solar portion of the project went into service in December 2024.

The storage facility is made up of batteries capable of powering more than 130,000 homes for four hours. On sunny days, the batteries store excess power and release it at night or in the early morning when the sun is not shining.

“Carbon is our target, and Wisconsin’s first large-scale battery storage project continues the progress we're making in working toward innovative solutions to achieve net-zero carbon electricity,” according to Jeff Keebler, MGE Chairman, President and CEO.

MGE owns 11 MW of the Paris facility’s battery storage and 20 MW of solar capacity. We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service, both subsidiaries of WEC Energy Group, own the remaining battery storage and solar capacity.

The project was developed by U.S.-based Invenergy, a leading global developer, owner, and operator of sustainable energy solutions.

XCEL ENERGY NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:39:22 GMT

Xcel Energy has named Ryan Long as the company’s new Executive Vice President and Chief Legal and Compliance Officer. Long, currently President of Xcel Energy – Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota, takes over the role held by Rob Berntsen, who accepted a position outside the company.

“Ryan has an extensive legal background as well as demonstrating tremendous leadership in strategic planning, operational considerations and financial results in his current role as President,” according to Bob Frenzel, Xcel Energy’s Chairman, President and CEO. “His legal acumen and jurisdictional expertise are critical assets as we make energy work better for customers. Ryan’s counsel to me, the Xcel Energy leadership team and the Board of Directors is invaluable.”

Long will oversee Xcel Energy’s legal, compliance, and federal affairs teams. He previously served as interim general counsel in late 2023 and early 2024.

Long will continue to oversee the Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota jurisdiction as the company conducts an internal and external search for the next president for this operating company.

Long joined Xcel Energy as a principal attorney in late 2015 and was named vice president, deputy general counsel, in May 2021, managing the Federal and State Regulatory, Environmental and Real Estate legal teams. He previously worked as a lawyer for Faegre Baker Daniels, now known as Faegre Drinker Biddle & Reath, in Minneapolis and Cravath, Swaine & Moore in New York City. Long currently serves on the board of directors of the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis.

WEC ENERGY GROUP ISSUES CONVERTIBLE SENIOR NOTES

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:28:28 GMT

The WEC Energy Group recently announced the issuance of $775 million in convertible senior notes in a private offering to institutional buyers. Interest on the convertible notes will be paid semiannually at a rate of 3.375 percent per annum. The notes will mature in June 1, 2028, unless converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms. Holders of the notes will have the right to convert their notes to cash or WEC Energy Group common stock prior to March 1, 2028. The conversion rate for the notes will initially be 7.7901 shares of WEC Energy Group common stock per $1,000 principal amount of the notes which is equivalent to an initial conversion price of approximately $128.37 per share. The conversion rate is subject to adjustment.

WPS WELCOMES LOCAL STUDENTS TO NEW HANDS-ON TRAINING PROGRAM

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:19:24 GMT

A few simple pen strokes and a handful of photos is all it took. Those actions are routine for any high school student, but they’re now part of a unique memory for Mitchell Baumann and Sabrina Boyer. The Sheboygan-area students have signed on as the first members of a new Wisconsin Public Service youth apprenticeship program.

WPS employees marked the start of the program by hosting a recent Signing Day ceremony for Baumann, Boyer and their families. The incoming high school seniors officially registered as youth apprentices before putting on WPS hats and committing to a year of hands-on training in natural gas delivery and utility construction.

While many students their age are on summer break, Baumann and Boyer are working full time with WPS, learning how the company safely and reliably delivers natural gas to homes and businesses. WPS field operations employees will provide hands-on training with installing meters, maintaining infrastructure and working safely with natural gas.

Both students will work toward completing the apprenticeship program as part-time employees when the school year resumes in the fall. When they’re finished, Baumann and Boyer will have received at least 450 hours of training that will count toward a future career with WPS.

MGE ANNUAL MEETING HIGHLIGHTED INVESTMENTS IN RENEWABLE GENERATION

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 15:09:39 GMT

MGE Energy shareholders heard from executive leadership about MGE Energy’s ongoing clean energy transition during the Company’s virtual annual meeting. Chairman, President and CEO Jeff Keebler discussed the Company’s continued investment in cost-effective, carbon-free energy to achieve its science-based carbon reduction goals. Keebler highlighted the Company’s most recent renewable energy projects, including:

Its purchase of 25 megawatts of solar capacity from the 250-MW Darien solar project in Rock and Walworth counties, which came online in early 2025. The purchase also will include 7.5 MW of battery storage capacity. The project’s 75-MW battery system is expected online in 2026.
Its purchase of 20 MW of solar capacity from the 200-MW Paris Solar project in Kenosha County. The project came online in late 2024. The 110-MW battery storage facility at the Paris site is expected online this year. MGE will own 11 MW of battery storage capacity.
Two 6-MW solar projects in Fitchburg. Tyto Solar, which came online last year, and Strix Solar, which began serving Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) customers earlier this year, are directly connected to MGE’s distribution system. One-third of the Strix Solar project will serve MGE’s recently approved Shared Solar-Strix program.

PSCW ANNOUNCES RURAL ENERGY STARTUP PROGRAM

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 14:58:47 GMT

The Rural Energy Startup Program (RESP) is funded by the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Block Grant (EECBG) and supports communities taking initial steps to reduce energy use, reduce fossil fuel emissions, and improve energy efficiency.

To be eligible, applicants must be a unit of local government (city, village, town, county) that was not eligible to receive a direct allocation from Department of Energy (DOE).

Rural municipal zip codes are identified as those within “any area of a State not in a city or town that has a population of more than 50,000 inhabitants, not in the urbanized area contiguous and adjacent to a city or town that has a population of more than 50,000 inhabitants, and excluding certain populations pursuant to 7 U.S.C. 1991(a)(13)(H) and (I).” OEI has aligned its definition of rural with that use in USDA’s Rural Energy for America Program and the Focus on Energy program’s rural bonus incentives.

Rural counties are identified by the U.S. Office of Management and Budget (OMB) using census data to establish a range of rural and urban classifications known as Rural-Urban Continuum (RUC) codes, with RUC of 4 to 9 considered rural. USDA’s Economic Research Service presents this information visually for Wisconsin by county.

To be given priority, applicants must be within a Disadvantaged Community or have a DAC located within the planned project area.

VOTE “YES” FOR THE RIGHT OF FIRST REFUSAL BILL MAIN MESSAGE OF THE 2025 WUI DAY AT THE CAPITOL

Fri, 30 May 2025 19:11:28 GMT

On May 14th, Wisconsin Utility Investors Day at the Capitol, 18 out of 33 Senators and 25 Assembly Representatives hosted meetings with Wisconsin Utility Investor members.

Executive Director James Buchen kicked off the busy day by preparing WUI member attendees for meetings with their State Senator and Representative by providing a legislative analysis of the Right of First Refusal (ROFR) legislation. Ellen Nowak, Vice President of State and Federal Affairs at ATC, offered insights into the bill's historical, economic, and practical aspects to facilitate engagement during their meetings.

WUI members enjoyed lunch at the Best Western Park Hotel while Representative David Steffen, Chairman of the Assembly Committee on Energy and Utilities, addressed the group. Rep. Steffen assured the audience that legislators value input from their constituents to understand how various pieces of legislation will impact the people they represent. The members were also briefed on current legislation aimed at securing our energy future through investments in new nuclear power plants.

If you weren’t able to join us on May 14, you can still contact your legislators and urge them to vote “YES” on Senate Bill 28 and Assembly Bill 25.

Click Here to identify your Senator and Representative and send them an email message. Or write them a letter addressed to Senator or Representative [name], P.O. Box 7882, Madison WI 53707.

MGE GETS PSCW APPROVAL FOR FITCHBURG ENERGY CENTER

Fri, 30 May 2025 19:10:14 GMT

Madison Gas and Electric has received approval from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) to build a 20-megawatt (MW) solar array and 40-MW battery storage system in Fitchburg. Known as the Sunnyside Solar Energy Center, the project will provide locally generated solar energy to MGE's distribution system.

The new energy center will be located off Whalen Road. The 20 MW of solar capacity is expected to generate enough electricity annually to serve about 6,000 households. The 40 MW of four-hour battery storage will provide electricity during times when energy demand is greatest and when renewable capacity is insufficient to meet all customer needs. EDF Renewables is the project developer. The solar array is expected to begin serving customers in 2026, with the battery storage expected in 2027.

WISCONSIN HOPES TO ATTRACT BIG TECH WITH DISCOUNTS

Fri, 30 May 2025 19:06:36 GMT

The state has seen a handful of new data center proposals, including projects in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin Rapids, Port Washington and Kenosha. Microsoft broke ground in 2023 on a 450-megawatt, $3.3 billion campus in Mount Pleasant at the former Foxconn site, although work on the data center has since paused twice.

Wisconsin lawmakers on the state’s finance committee included a sales tax exemption in the 2023-25 state budget based on a stand-alone bill that received bipartisan support. The tax exemption, subject to approval by the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp., includes land, site improvements, IT and cooling equipment and electricity. The agency has approved three data centers to date.

Other states have enacted the model legislation at the urging of utilities and industry groups like NetChoice and the Data Center Coalition. NetChoice’s president noted at a legislative hearing that Wisconsin has long provided exemptions on agricultural and manufacturing equipment and asked lawmakers why they couldn’t do the same for America’s capital investment leaders.

Madison-headquartered Alliant Energy helped pay for a study that determined Wisconsin was at a competitive disadvantage to neighboring states. It is estimated that a hyperscale data center developed in the Milwaukee-Waukesha metro region could create 300 jobs, generate $3 million in annual state and local tax revenue and provide more than $87 million in annual economic output.

The state estimated that a typical data center would decrease tax collections by $8.5 million during the initial construction phase, followed by an annual reduction of $735,000. Additionally, if equipment is replaced on a five-year schedule, the sales tax would decrease by an additional $1.6 million on an annualized basis.

Microsoft’s data center campus has inherited additional perks initially designated for Foxconn: discounted electricity rates for Microsoft buildings located within a designated information technology zone. In future phases of Microsoft’s project, the company may purchase Lake Michigan water via the city of Racine, a rare arrangement in light of the Great Lakes Compact which regulates the use and withdrawal of lake water.

We Energies intends to construct more than $2 billion in natural gas infrastructure, including two new plants and a pipeline, to meet the power demands of Microsoft’s data center, which is its largest anticipated electric load. This prompted concerns that ratepayers will be saddled with the new, fossil-fuel plants if the data center project is scaled back or canceled.

The utility has objected to such concerns, noting that the infrastructure is necessary to increase “reliability, resiliency, and dispatchability” of natural gas for its current customers.

Additionally, it has proposed a new rate structure, known as a tariff, for “very large customers,” which the company developed to meet the Microsoft and Port Washington data centers’ electric needs.

The rate would assign costs that result from new or expanded power plants and transmission lines along with electricity proportional to data center use, thereby protecting We Energies’ “customers and shareholders from harm.”

Wisconsin’s utility regulator, the Public Service Commission, is reviewing the proposal. We Energies has requested approval by the year’s end.

EARNINGS & DIVIDENDS

Fri, 30 May 2025 19:02:38 GMT

ALLIANT ENERGY ANNOUNCES FIRST-QUARTER 2025 RESULTS

Alliant Energy Corporation has announced earnings per share for the three months ended March 31 as follow:

First quarter GAAP earnings per share were $0.83 in 2025, compared to $0.62 in 2024.

Reaffirming 2025 earnings guidance range of $3.15 - $3.25 per share.

Updated forecasted 2025 - 2028 capital expenditures of $11.5 billion in aggregate.

MGE ENERGY REPORTS FIRST-QUARTER 2025 EARNINGS

MGE Energy's earnings for the first quarter of 2025 were $41.6 million, or $1.14 per share, compared to $33.8 million, or $0.93 per share, for the same period in the prior year. Rate-base investment growth and weather impacts drove first-quarter results. MGE continues to invest in new, cost effective renewable generation, which is helping to fuel the company's asset growth. An increase in electric investments included in rate-base contributed to increased electric earnings for 2025. Darien solar project in Rock and Walworth counties became operational in March 2025, serving MGE electric customers with cost-effective, carbon-free energy.

MGE owns 25 MW of solar capacity from the Darien Solar Project. Gas retail sales saw a significant increase of 19 percent in the first quarter of 2025, while electric retail sales rose by three percent. These changes occurred against a backdrop of relatively normal weather in the first quarter of 2025, compared to the milder conditions observed in the first quarter of 2024.

WEC ENERGY GROUP REPORTS FIRST-QUARTER RESULTS

WEC Energy Group has reported net income of $724.2 million, or $2.27 per share, for the first quarter of 2025. This compares to earnings of $622.3 million, or $1.97 per share, for last year's first quarter.

Consolidated revenues totaled $3.1 billion, up $469.3 million from the first quarter a year ago. For the quarter, natural gas deliveries in Wisconsin — excluding natural gas used for power generation — rose by 15.5 percent compared to the first quarter of 2024. On a weather normal basis, these natural gas deliveries were 0.5 percent lower. Retail deliveries of electricity — excluding the iron ore mine in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula — were up by 2.9 percent in the first quarter of 2025, compared to the first quarter last year. Electricity consumption by small commercial and industrial customers was 2.1 percent higher. Electricity use by large commercial and industrial customers — excluding the iron ore mine — increased by 1.1 percent. Residential electricity use rose by 5.5 percent.

XCEL ENERGY BOARD DECLARES DIVIDEND ON COMMON STOCK

The Board of Directors of Xcel Energy has declared a quarterly dividend on its common stock of 57 cents per share. The dividends are payable July 20, 2025, to shareholders of record on June 13, 2025.

NEW NUCLEAR GENERATION EYED FOR KEWAUNEE PLANT SITE

Fri, 30 May 2025 18:59:30 GMT

The owner of a shuttered nuclear power plant in northeast Wisconsin is working with the state’s largest utility company to explore the potential for bringing new nuclear energy generation to the site. Utah-based nuclear company EnergySolutions owns the Kewaunee Power Station in Kewaunee County. The company has announced that it is working with WEC Energy Group, the parent company of We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service, on the effort.

The companies are in the early stages of a “multi-year” plan to pursue federal approval for bringing new nuclear energy online at the site, according to EnergySolutions. The company says the plan also includes conducting “in-depth” site and environmental studies.

EnergySolutions President and CEO Ken Robuck said rising energy demand from data centers, artificial intelligence and industrial growth have made reliable carbon-free energy more important than ever.

Courtesy of Royalbroil, own work, CC BY-SA 3.0

PSCW APPROVES WE ENERGIES’ PLAN TO BUILD NEW NATURAL GAS PLANTS

Fri, 30 May 2025 18:49:56 GMT

Wisconsin regulators have paved the way for We Energies to spend about $1.5 billion to build two natural gas power plants in southeastern Wisconsin.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin has approved the utility’s plans to build natural gas plants in the city of Oak Creek in Milwaukee County and the town of Paris in Kenosha County. The more-than-$1.2 billion natural gas plant in Oak Creek would essentially replace aging coal units at the South Oak Creek power plant. Two of those units came offline last year, and the remaining two are scheduled to shut down this year.

Meanwhile, the new plant in Kenosha County has an estimated construction cost of more than $270 million. It will complement the utility’s existing peaker plant in Paris. We Energies plans to begin construction this year. Both plants are part of We Energies’ more than $2 billion plan to invest in natural gas infrastructure to respond to expected increases in energy demand in southeast Wisconsin, driven by the development of power-hungry data centers and industrial growth.

(L) City of Oak Creek, Milwaukee County. (R) Town of Paris, Kenosha County. Courtesy of psc.wi.gov.

NATURAL GAS OPPONENTS ATTEMPT TO BLOCK PORTION OF We ENERGIES' $2B PLAN

Michelle Lancaster — Sat, 03 May 2025 16:59:39 GMT

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) is considering We Energies' plan to build more than $2 billion of new natural gas infrastructure in southeast Wisconsin.

The PSC recently held a pair of public hearings allowing state residents to weigh in on We Energies’ plans to build a roughly $1.2 billion natural gas plant and a more than $456.3 million liquefied natural gas storage facility in Oak Creek.

The new natural gas plant in Oak Creek would essentially replace aging coal units at the South Oak Creek power plant. Two of those units came offline last year, and the remaining two are scheduled to come offline this year. The projects are necessary to meet future energy needs and support economic growth while reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

We Energies describes the natural gas plants as necessary to meet rising energy demands from industrial development in the region, including multiple planned data centers in southeast Wisconsin that require substantial amounts of electric power. A natural gas plant emits about half of the CO2 of a coal-burning plant.

The investments in Oak Creek represent the largest portion of the utility’s more than $2 billion plan to build natural gas infrastructure in southeast Wisconsin. The plan also includes a roughly $300 million natural gas plant in Kenosha County and a more than $200 million gas pipeline in Kenosha, Racine and Milwaukee Counties.

The coal-fired Elm Road Generating Station on the company’s Oak Creek campus is expected to be converted to natural gas in a separate project as We Energies’ parent company works to stop using coal by 2032.

XCEL ENERGY GAINS APPROVAL FOR MAJOR LINK IN UPPER MIDWEST'S ENERGY FUTURE

Michelle Lancaster — Sat, 03 May 2025 16:44:45 GMT

Xcel Energy will soon begin building a key link in Minnesota’s energy future to deliver clean, reliable electricity to customers across the upper midwest after earning approval from the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission this week.

Once complete in 2028, the roughly 175-mile Minnesota Energy Connection transmission line will carry electricity generated in southwest Minnesota to the existing electric grid at Xcel Energy’s Sherco site in Becker, Minnesota. The line will deliver enough energy to power more than 1 million homes across the upper midwest.

“The Minnesota Energy Connection transmission line delivers on our commitment to providing affordable and reliable energy to our customers,” according to Ryan Long, President, Xcel Energy-Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. “Through this project, we will invest in our communities, add industry-leading amounts of clean energy that our customers want, and maintain reliable service as we meet customers’ growing demand for electricity.”

MONTICELLO NUCLEAR PLANT REFUELS TO CONTINUE PRODUCING CLEAN, RELIABLE ENERGY

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 01 May 2025 21:51:04 GMT

Workers at Xcel Energy’s Monticello nuclear plant have begun a refueling and maintenance effort allowing the facility to continue providing reliable, carbon-free energy for customers throughout the Upper Midwest and remain an economic engine for the region.

During the planned work, the plant will be taken offline and nearly 1,000 specialists will join the plant’s full-time workforce. This provides a significant boost to the economies of Wright County and the surrounding region. The work helps set up the plant for a future extension of its operations, which will play an important part in achieving Minnesota’s clean energy goals.

“Nuclear energy is an important clean energy resource that will help achieve Minnesota’s goal to power communities with reliable, 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2040,” said Ryan Long, president, Xcel Energy – Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. “Ensuring our nuclear plants operate responsibly allows us to continue delivering reliable, carbon-free energy to our Upper Midwest customers well into the future.”

Together, the Monticello plant and Xcel Energy’s Prairie Island nuclear plant provide 23 percent of the total electricity that the company’s customers use in the Upper Midwest.

Extension of operations

Plant maintenance makes it possible to extend Monticello’s operating life and renew Xcel Energy’s investment and commitment to the surrounding region. Earlier this year, the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) approved a 20-year license extension for the Monticello plant, allowing the plant to continue operations through 2050. The Minnesota Public Utilities Commission also approved extended operations through 2050, matching the federal extension.

“Refueling and maintenance activities allow us to continue delivering the carbon-free, 24/7 dispatchable energy that our nuclear plants provide our customers,” according to Chris Church, Senior Vice President, Chief Nuclear Officer. “This work requires extensive planning and is critical to maintaining safe, reliable operations at our Monticello plant.”

The company has a long track record of operating its nuclear plants safely. Last year during its annual public meeting, the NRC reported that the Monticello plant operated safely and within the highest performance category.

In recent years, Xcel Energy’s nuclear team has taken steps to save money for customers. The company has implemented an innovative process for temporarily reducing nuclear generation overnight on certain days when low-cost wind resources are abundant. The nuclear team has also reduced production costs at its nuclear plants by 25 percent over the past decade.

WEC ENERGY GROUP DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 01 May 2025 21:33:29 GMT

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 89.25 cents per share on the company's common stock.

The dividend is payable June 1, 2025, to stockholders of record on May 14, 2025. This marks the 331^st consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

XCEL ENERGY FIRST QUARTER 2025 EARNINGS REPORT

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 01 May 2025 18:19:38 GMT

Xcel Energy has reported 2025 first quarter GAAP earnings of $483 million, or $0.84 per share, compared with $488 million, or $0.88 per share in the same period in 2024.

First quarter ongoing earnings reflect higher O&M expenses, depreciation and interest charges, partially offset by increased recovery of infrastructure investments.

“As we continue to advance our mission to make energy work better for our customers, we are building new generation, investing in system resilience and leading the energy transition to meet the goals and aspirations of the communities we serve,” said Bob Frenzel, chairman, president and CEO of Xcel Energy. “We reached a milestone in February, when Minnesota regulators approved a resource plan that includes nearly 5,000 megawatts of new wind, solar, battery storage and gas by 2030. Meanwhile, we continue to mitigate the risk of wildfires in our service areas through ongoing operating investments and regulatory support, including reaching settlements for our Texas System Resiliency and Colorado Wildfire Mitigation Plans.”

MGE PARTNERS WITH We ENERGIES, WPS TO PURCHASE MORE SOLAR CAPACITY, BATTERY STORAGE

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 01 May 2025 00:50:48 GMT

Madison Gas and Electric, in partnership with We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service, subsidiaries of WEC Energy Group, have received approval from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to purchase solar capacity and battery storage from the High Noon Solar Energy Center.

The project is expected to generate enough carbon-free energy to power about 90,000 households. MGE’s 10 percent share of the output will power about 9,000 households.

MGE will own 30 MW of solar and 16.5 MW of battery storage from the facility located in Columbia County. We Energies and WPS will own the remaining 270 MW of solar and 148.5 MW of battery storage.

The High Noon Solar Energy Center is expected to start serving customers in 2027.

XCEL ENERGY LAUNCHES NEW LIVE CAMERA TO OBSERVE PEREGRINE FALCONS

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 01 May 2025 00:46:19 GMT

Xcel Energy gas has announced the launch of a new live camera offering the public a unique opportunity to observe peregrine falcons, three of which have already arrived, as they nest and raise their chicks on the shores of Lake Superior atop the Bay Front Power Plant. This camera is part of Xcel Energy's ongoing commitment to environmental education and is one of several the company has installed throughout the states it serves.

“We are very excited to welcome the peregrine falcons back to Ashland and to share the nesting and raising of their young through our ‘Bird Cam’ for all to enjoy,” said Lynn Hall, environmental analyst, Xcel Energy. “Our partnership with the Raptor Resource Project allows us to continue to raise conservation awareness and create great nesting habitats for these birds.” Shortly after the camera was installed, Scottie from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula arrived at the box where he’s been coming the past two years.

Peregrine falcons began nesting at the Bay Front Power Plant in 2014 following the removal of a nearby ore dock on Lake Superior where they previously nested. Each year since then, peregrine falcons have returned to the power plant to nest and notably, a chick born in Ashland in 2023 was identified last year as far south as South Padre Island, Texas. In the past few years, Xcel Energy has collaborated with the Ashland Daily Press and local school districts in Ashland and Bayfield to name the chicks.

XCEL ENERGY, LOCAL PARTNERS, CELEBRATE NEW SOLAR FACILITY

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 01 May 2025 00:39:28 GMT

Xcel Energy has announced the operation of the Chippewa Sun solar array in the town of Hallie. This five-megawatt solar photovoltaic system is expected to generate approximately 10 million kilowatt-hours per year for its subscribing partners: UW-Eau Claire and the City of Eau Claire.

“The commercial operation of Chippewa Sun is a testament to the leadership and vision of our subscribing customers, and the dedication of our exceptional contractors and suppliers,” according to Karl Hoesly, President, Xcel Energy-Wisconsin and Michigan. “This project not only propels us toward our vision of providing 100 percent carbon-free electricity to our customers by 2050, but it also advances the individual sustainability goals of our partners.”

Chippewa Sun is located just outside Eau Claire and will be integrated into Xcel Energy’s distribution system. Xcel Energy is purchasing electricity from the facility to support the subscribing partners.

WE ENERGIES PROPOSES SPECIAL ELECTRIC RATE FOR DATA CENTERS

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 30 Apr 2025 19:06:50 GMT

We Energies has proposed a special electric rate aimed at data centers including the Microsoft center under construction in Mount Pleasant and a proposed facility in Port Washington.

The rate is meant to ensure that other ratepayers are not saddled with costs associated with building power plants and electric infrastructure necessary for power-hungry data centers, according to the state's largest utility.

The rate could apply to other very large industrial We Energies customers in Wisconsin, although it was essentially written for data centers which are in a league of their own when it comes to power consumption.

Data centers house thousands of computers, in one or more buildings, linked to the outside world by fiber optic cables. They enable most everyday online activities, including social media, streaming video, banking, ChatGPT and much more.

WE ENERGIES, WITH WPS AND MGE, ADDING MORE SOLAR POWER TO WISCONSIN’S GRID

Michelle Lancaster — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 15:43:26 GMT

The 250-megawatt (MW) Darien Solar Energy Center is up and running — and now providing power to customers.

The project in Walworth and Rock counties features more than 600,000 solar panels capable of providing enough energy to power about 75,000 homes. The project went into service this month. It was built primarily by Wisconsin union workers.

This is We Energies’ second large scale solar project to power up in recent months. The Paris Solar Energy Center in Kenosha County went online in December. We Energies is also partial owner in the state’s largest solar park, Badger Hollow Solar in Iowa County.

“Our customers count on us to deliver reliable energy — it’s our job to provide it safely 24 hours a day, 365 days a year,” said Mike Hooper, president — We Energies. “These new solar projects, along with our planned investments in low-carbon natural gas power plants and more renewable energy, will continue to support reliability and economic growth across the state.”

The solar panels at the Darien Solar Energy Center move and track the sun throughout the day, maximizing power generation. The panels also capture solar energy on both sides — an especially useful feature in winter when sun reflects off the snow and onto the panels.

The Darien Solar Energy Center will provide both immediate and long-term savings to We Energies customers. The facility is already eligible for federal tax credits that will provide millions of dollars per year of savings to customers. And since the facility is powered by the sun, it does not require outside fuel, further reducing costs.

We Energies is the majority owner of the project. Wisconsin Public Service and Madison Gas and Electric are also co-owners.

The project was developed by U.S.-based Invenergy, a leading global developer, owner and operator of clean energy solutions.

WISCONSIN'S BUDGET PROCESS UNDERWAY

Michelle Lancaster — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 14:07:52 GMT

Since the Governor introduced his 2025-2027 state budget, Republican legislators have rejected it and are in the process of preparing their own. Republican leaders also plan to introduce their own tax relief proposal using the state’s surplus. Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August has said Republicans could hold up adopting a new state budget if the GOP tax cut plan isn’t first signed into law by Evers.

In his budget, Governor Evers proposes $2 billion in tax relief, including property tax reductions and an energy sales tax exemption, while also increasing taxes on top earners. Republican leaders argue his plan results in a net tax hike and instead advocate for broader tax cuts, potentially including retirement income exemptions. Finding consensus on tax cuts will require middle ground between both sides.

One area of common interest is closing the state’s prison in Green Bay and building a new facility. However, the Governor’s plan is receiving criticism from the GOP. Evers proposes a $535.5 million plan to expand early release for certain non-violent offenders, invest in job training, and close Green Bay’s prison. His plan also includes closing the troubled Lincoln Hills and Cooper Lake juvenile correctional facilities in northern Wisconsin and replacing them with a new facility near Madison at the site of an existing minimum-security prison. Under the proposal, the Lincoln Hills campus would be converted into a medium-security adult prison. While Republicans acknowledge overcrowding is an issue, they oppose expanding early release and favor alternative reforms. The Speaker criticized the Governor for not working with legislative Republicans on his corrections package.

ALLIANT ENERGY NAMES AMY BEST SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT

Michelle Lancaster — Sat, 29 Mar 2025 12:16:24 GMT

Lisa Barton, Alliant Energy President and CEO, has announced that Amy Best has been named Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) of Alliant Energy effective March 24, 2025.

"We are delighted to welcome Amy as our new CHRO,” said Barton. “Amy is a results-oriented business leader and has been recognized throughout her career for leveraging innovative approaches that deliver strong human capital programs for employees, driving customer satisfaction and supporting the communities we serve. We are excited to have her as a part of our leadership team.”

Most recently, Best served as the Executive Vice President and CHRO of Exelon, a $40 billion Fortune 250 energy transmission and distribution firm that includes the largest utility company in the U.S.

Best holds a bachelor’s degree from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a master’s degree from Loyola University Chicago. “I’m excited to join a team that shares a passion for building its culture around a shared purpose of serving customers and building strong communities,” said Best. “I look forward to partnering with Lisa and the entire Executive team to help support the talent and creativity of our dedicated team members.”

TRUMP ADMINISTRATION EV CHARGER FUNDING PAUSE LEAVES QUESTIONS ABOUT WISCONSIN PROJECTS

Michelle Lancaster — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 21:18:11 GMT

MADISON (WKOW) – The Trump administration effectively froze funding for a program incentivizing the construction of electric vehicle charging stations across the country, and left questions about how the pause would affect Wisconsin’s EV projects and their connected jobs.

On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Transportation released a memo informing states that it was conducting a review of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula Program while it undertook a review. The pause effectively freezes funding for NEVI grant projects.

The projects were awarded by state agencies, including the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

“The new leadership of the Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) has decided to review the policies underlying the implementation of the NEVI Formula Program,” the memo said. “Accordingly, the current NEVI Formula Program Guidance dated June 11, 2024, and all prior versions of this guidance are rescinded.”

In addition to pausing the funding, U.S. DOT also suspended the approval “of all State Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Deployment plans for all fiscal years.” The plans are the means by which states released funding to businesses and other organizations to construct EV chargers.

Wisconsin’s DOT had approved more than $23 million in NEVI grants to 53 projects spread throughout the state.

27 News asked the state DOT for an interview or a statement updating on the status of Wisconsin’s efforts to fund EV chargers, in light of the Trump administration’s decision. The agency did not respond.

NEVI was funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law signed by former President Joe Biden.

Environmental activists raised concerns about the climate impacts of slowing the rollout of a national electric vehicle charging network. Clean Wisconsin Communications Director Amy Barrilleaux drew attention to the jobs potentially put at risk by the decision.

She pointed to Ingeteam, a manufacturer that launched an expansion of its Milwaukee factory to meet increased demand for electric vehicle charging stations,

DATA CENTER COULD COME TO BEAVER DAM

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 22:43:38 GMT

A new data center could be coming to Beaver Dam as a flurry of similar projects across the state are raising concerns about whether utilities will be able to keep up with rising energy demand.

The city of Beaver Dam, Alliant Energy and the Beaver Dam Area Development Corp. have been working on a potential data center development for much of the last year, according to Trent Campbell, executive vice president of the Beaver Dam Area Development Corp.

The project would be located on a more than 500-acre site, called the Beaver Dam Commerce Park, that the city and Alliant Energy have been marketing for years.

BILL SINGLES OUT WIND AND SOLAR FOR LOCAL APPROVAL

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 22:21:49 GMT

Electric facilities with a generating capacity of 100 megawatts or more need a certificate of public convenience and necessity from the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, and do not need to be approved by local municipalities. That applies to all such projects, whether they generate electricity using solar, wind, natural gas or coal.

Renewable energy projects smaller than 100 megawatts do need local approval, and some small power plant projects may need a certificate of authority from the state. In 2009, Wisconsin passed a law that prevents municipalities from placing restrictions on wind projects that are more restrictive than PSC rules, with a few exceptions.

A new bill would require solar or wind projects producing 15 megawatts or more to get approval from each city, village and town in which the project is located. The PSC would not be able to approve solar or wind projects without local approvals.

GOP STATE LAWMAKERS PUSHING TO ADVANCE NUCLEAR ENERGY

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 21:45:14 GMT

Two Republican Wisconsin lawmakers who chair state legislative committees on energy and utilities say they want to bring more nuclear power online in Wisconsin in the coming years. To start that effort, they are calling on the Legislature to publicly support nuclear power and fusion energy.

“Their resolution, more than anything, makes a formal declaration that Wisconsin is open for business — it is open for nuclear,” said Rep. David Steffen, R-Howard, who chairs the Assembly Energy and Utilities Committee.

He is also working with state Sen. Julian Bradley, R-New Berlin, chair of the Senate Utilities and Tourism Committee, on the effort.

In addition to the resolution, they plan to propose a nuclear siting study to identify locations around Wisconsin that make sense as sites for nuclear power plants. They also hope to bring an international nuclear summit to the state in the coming years that would help market Wisconsin for development and research opportunities, Steffen said.

He said completing a siting study could take two years off the development time for a new nuclear plant, which can take a decade or more to bring online.

Steffen said the biggest factor pushing him toward supporting nuclear power was seeing the large energy needs of Microsoft’s data center campus in Mount Pleasant. The first phase of that project is expected to use more electricity than all the homes in Dane County combined.

FITCHBURG SOLAR PROJECT NOW SERVING MGE CUSTOMERS

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 21:42:37 GMT

Madison Gas and Electric has announced the 6-megawatt (MW) Strix Solar project in Fitchburg is operational. Two-thirds of the project serve all MGE electric customers with locally generated, carbon-free energy. The remaining two MW are expected to serve the company's proposed Shared Solar – Strix program. Shared Solar – Strix is based on MGE's original and fully subscribed community solar program, Shared Solar.

"With the recent completion of the Paris solar project and now Strix Solar, MGE continues to grow our use of renewable energy, which is one of MGE's key strategies for achieving our science-based carbon reduction goals," according to Jeff Keebler, MGE Chairman, President and CEO. "By growing our use of cost-effective carbon-free energy and by working with customers to advance energy efficiency and electrification, we can achieve our sustainable energy goals."

Located at the corner of Byrne and Syene roads, Strix Solar is expected to generate enough clean energy to power about 1,400 households annually. The solar array includes bifacial solar panels that produce energy from both sides as they track the sun throughout the day. The facility was developed for MGE by U.S.-based OneEnergy Renewables.

ALLIANT, MGE, WEC ENERGIES, & XCEL Year-end Reports

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 21:19:50 GMT

Alliant Energy Announces 2024 Earnings

“In 2024, the company delivered another solid year of financial and operational results. It has completed 1,500 megawatts of solar generation investments in 2024. Combined with existing 1,800 megawatts of wind resources, these zero-fuel cost, zero-emission investments strengthen the clean energy element of our balanced generation portfolio and reinforce our leadership in the energy transition,” according to Lisa Barton, Alliant Energy President and CEO. “As part of the company’s customer and community-focused strategy, it, along with Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds and Cedar Rapids Mayor Tiffany O’Donnell, officially confirmed the largest economic development investment in the history of Cedar Rapids.

Utilities and Corporate Services - Alliant Energy’s Utilities and Alliant Energy Corporate Services, Inc. (Corporate Services) operations generated $2.81 per share of GAAP EPS in 2024, which was $0.05 per share lower than 2023. The primary drivers of lower EPS were items not normally associated with ongoing operations and higher depreciation and financing expenses, estimated temperature impacts on retail electric and gas sales, and lower allowance for funds used during construction (AFUDC). These items were partially offset by higher revenue requirements from capital investments.

MGE Energy Reports Fourth-Quarter and Full Year 2024 Earnings

Madison, Wis., Feb. 25, 2025—MGE Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq: MGEE), today reported financial results for the fourth quarter and full year of 2024.

MGE Energy's GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles) earnings for the full year of 2024 were $120.6 million, or $3.33 per share, compared to $117.7 million, or $3.25 per share, for the same period in the prior year.

MGE Energy's earnings for the fourth quarter of 2024 were $22.0 million, or 61 cents per share, compared to $20.1 million, or 55 cents per share, for the same period in the prior year.

MGE continues to invest in new, cost-effective renewable generation, which is helping to fuel the company's asset growth. An increase in electric investments included in rate base contributed to increased electric earnings for 2024. The Paris solar project was completed in December 2024.

During 2024, gas retail therm deliveries decreased approximately 4% compared to the prior year, primarily due to warmer-than-normal weather in 2024. Gas use by commercial and industrial customers was approximately 4% lower during 2024, and residential gas consumption decreased by approximately 4%.

WEC Energy Group posts 2024 results

WEC Energy Group has reported net income based on generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) of $1.5 billion, or $4.83 per share, for 2024. This compares to earnings of $1.3 billion, or $4.22 per share, for 2023. Full-year 2024 earnings include a charge of 6 cents per share related to certain capital expenditures under the Qualifying Infrastructure Plant (QIP) rider that were disallowed by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC). Full-year 2023 earnings included a non-cash charge of 41 cents per share related to previous capital investments that were disallowed by the ICC. Excluding these charges, WEC Energy Group's adjusted earnings for 2024 rose to $4.88 per share – an increase of 5.4 percent over 2023 adjusted earnings of $4.63 per share. For the fourth quarter of 2024, WEC Energy Group recorded net income based on GAAP of $453.5 million, or $1.43 per share. This compares to earnings of $218.5 million, or 69 cents per share, for the fourth quarter of 2023. Excluding the non-cash charge, WEC Energy Group's adjusted earnings for the fourth quarter of 2023 totaled $1.10 per share. Consolidated revenues for the full year were $8.6 billion, down $293.1 million from revenues in 2023.

Xcel Energy 2024 Year End Earnings Report

Xcel Energy has reported 2024 GAAP earnings of $1.94 billion, or $3.44 per share, compared with $1.77 billion, or $3.21 per share in the same period in 2023 and ongoing earnings of $1.97 billion, or $3.50 per share, compared with $1.85 billion, or $3.35 per share in the same period in 2023. See Note 6 for reconciliation from GAAP to ongoing earnings.

The change in ongoing earnings reflects increased recovery of infrastructure investments, partially offset by higher depreciation, interest charges and O&M expenses.

“In 2024, we delivered on our earnings guidance for the 20^th year in a row - one of the best track records in the industry - against a very difficult backdrop of challenges throughout the year. We significantly increased our investments in the infrastructure and technology that serves to protect and enhance the electrical systems for the benefit of our customers and communities,” according to Bob Frenzel, Chairman, President and CEO of Xcel Energy.

XCEL ENERGY RECEIVES APPROVAL TO EXTEND NUCLEAR PLANT OPERATIONS

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:34:19 GMT

Xcel Energy will extend the operation of its carbon-free Monticello Nuclear Generating Plant well into the future to support its clean energy vision following the recent renewal of the plant’s operating license by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC).

The federal approval allows the plant to operate an additional 20 years, through 2050, provided the plant’s extended operation is also approved by state regulators. Monticello’s continued operation will ensure that nuclear energy plays a foundational role in Xcel Energy’s transition to 100% carbon-free electricity.

“The Monticello plant has long been an essential source of clean, safe and reliable energy, powering more than 500,000 homes annually in the Upper Midwest,” according to Bob Frenzel, Xcel Energy Chairman, President and CEO. “As the only 24/7 carbon-free energy source we have, nuclear energy will be key to accelerating our journey to a clean energy future while ensuring we also meet the unprecedented growth in our customers’ demand for electricity.”

The plant’s license renewal comes as the result of a multi-year process, during which the NRC conducted numerous inspections, audits and reviews of all technical aspects of the plant to ensure it met or exceeded standards for safety, environmental impact and other considerations.

WISCONSIN’S FIRST FEDERAL FUNDED EV CHARGERS COME ONLINE

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:32:26 GMT

As of the middle of January, the first federally funded electric vehicle charging stations are up and running. The fast-charging stations came online at Kwik Trip locations in Ashland, Menomonie and Chippewa Falls. They’re three of the 53 charging station projects at businesses across Wisconsin that have been awarded funding.

The state is receiving $78 million from the federal government’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure, or NEVI, Formula Program, funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The 53 projects announced so far account for about $23 million of that funding.

The remaining 50 charging projects that have already been announced are expected to continue to come online through the first half of 2026, said Kaleb Vander Wiele, the transportation electrification project manager at the state Department of Transportation.

XCEL ENERGY ANNOUNCES INVESTOR RELATIONS LEADERSHIP TRANSITION

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:30:28 GMT

Xcel Energy has announced that Roopesh Aggarwal has been named Vice President of Investor Relations, succeeding Paul Johnson, who is retiring from the company after more than 40 years of service, most recently as vice president, Treasury and Investor Relations.

“Strong, trusted relationships with the investment community are critical to achieving our strategic priorities and capital growth plans,” according to Brian Van Abel, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. “Paul is recognized across our industry for his longstanding connections with our investors, analysts, credit rating agencies and other external and internal stakeholders. At the same time, we have been mindful to build a pipeline of talent and succession plans to ensure continuity when changes do occur.”

Aggarwal joined Xcel Energy in 2019 as senior director, Business Innovation, and was named Senior Director, Investor Relations in 2022. He has well-established relationships in the financial community, overseeing the company’s quarterly earnings calls, investor presentations and shareholder services. Aggarwal’s career spans finance, strategy and corporate development roles at Summit Utilities, DTE Energy, Ford Motor Co. and several private equity and consulting firms.

Johnson will work in an advisory role as the company closes out its annual financial reporting and will depart after the first quarter.

MGE ENERGY DECLARES REGULAR DIVIDEND

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:25:43 GMT

The Board of Directors of MGE Energy has declared the regular quarterly dividend of $0.45 per share on the outstanding shares of the company's common stock, payable March 15, 2025, to shareholders of record at the close of business March 1, 2025. MGE Energy has increased its dividend annually for the past 49 years and has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.

WISCONSIN TO SEE $4.1B INVESTMENT FROM SIX NEW TRANSMISSION PROJECTS

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:24:03 GMT

Wisconsin is expected to see $4.1 billion investment in the coming years from six transmission projects as part of the largest portfolio ever approved by the Midwest electric grid operator.

The Midcontinent Independent System Operator, or MISO, in December approved 488 transmission projects that span 5,000 miles across 15 states, including a $21.8 billion portfolio of 24 long range transmission plans.

Six of those long-term reliability projects will be located entirely or partially in Wisconsin. They consist of two new transmission lines from Minnesota and Illinois, portions of other new lines, building new substations and upgrading existing substations.

MISO estimates construction will generate between 4,000 and 12,257 jobs and between $817 million to $4.5 billion in economic output.

WISCONSIN HAS NEW TAX LAW FOR CHARGING ELECTRIC VEHICLES

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:19:20 GMT

A new excise tax effective which as effective January 1, 2025, establishes an electric vehicle charging tax and requires certain people to register for the new tax.

An excise tax of three cents per kilowatt-hour is due on the electricity delivered or placed into the battery or other energy storage device of an EV by a Level 3 charger or a Level 1 or Level 2 charger installed on or after March 22, 2024, of an EV charging station.

An owner, operator, manager or lessee of an EV charging station must register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue using the Online Business Tax Registration prior to delivery or placement of electricity from an EV charging station that is subject to the excise tax.

The excise tax does not apply, and registration is not required for residential EV charging stations, except for hotels. "The excise tax represents a crucial source of revenue for maintaining Wisconsin's roadways and infrastructure," according to Department of Revenue Secretary Designee David Casey. "It will help ensure continued funding for road repairs and construction as Wisconsin drivers increasingly make the switch to electric vehicles, while creating a more equitable system in which all drivers contribute to road maintenance costs."

XCEL ENERGY UNVEILS FIRST OF ITS KIND PLAN TO PROVIDE SAFE, CLEAN, RELIABLE & AFFORDABLE ENERGY SERVICE

Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:17:54 GMT

Xcel Energy – Colorado has proposed the Mountain Energy Project, its largest non-pipeline alternative portfolio to date, to reduce natural gas use and emissions while ensuring the reliability, safety and comfort of customers served by its Easter Mountain Gas System in Grand, Lake, Eagle and Summit counties. The project will help meet the state of Colorado’s clean energy goals and supports Xcel Energy’s vision of delivering net-zero natural gas service by 2050.

The Mountain Energy Project is an innovative approach to natural gas system planning, pairing non-pipeline alternatives – like energy efficiency, conservation and beneficial electrification programs – with new modular liquid natural gas and compressed natural gas equipment to back up these projects during times of increased demand.

In Memoriam of Roger Cole

Fri, 31 Jan 2025 17:37:19 GMT

The Wisconsin Utility Investors Board of Directors is deeply saddened to announce that our esteemed and cherished Chairman of the past 19 years, Roger Cole, passed away on November 30, 2024. Roger stepped down as Chairman of the board at the October board meeting, planning to remain a board member. Board Member Gregory Bollom was elected to succeed Roger as Chairman.

The WUI board, staff, and membership will miss Roger's smiling face and steadfast leadership.

WEC Energy Group to increase Dividend by 6.9 Percent

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:18:58 GMT

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group will raise the quarterly dividend on the company's common stock to 89.25 cents per share in the first quarter of 2025. This would represent an increase of 5.75 cents per share, or 6.9 percent.

The directors expect to declare the new dividend at their regularly scheduled meeting in January. The dividend — which would be equivalent to an annual rate of $3.57 per share — would be payable March 1, 2025, to stockholders of record on February. 14, 2025.

"The board's review today is consistent with our ongoing plan targeting a dividend payout ratio of 65 to 70 percent of earnings," said Scott Lauber, president and CEO. "The projected dividend for 2025 is in line with the company's longer-term objective to grow earnings per share at a 6.5 to 7 percent compound annual growth rate."

In addition, the company introduced earnings guidance for 2025. Calendar year 2025 earnings are expected to be in a range of $5.17 to $5.27 per share. The midpoint of the range is $5.22 per share. This represents growth of 7.6 percent from the midpoint of the company's 2024 adjusted guidance of $4.85 per share.

Xcel Energy Board Declares Dividend on Common Stock

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:16:18 GMT

The Board of Directors of Xcel Energy has declared a quarterly dividend on its common stock of 54.75 cents per share. The dividends are payable January 20, 2025, to shareholders of record on January 6, 2025.

Bocanegra Named President of Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas in Illinois

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:11:50 GMT

WEC Energy Group has announced that Maria Bocanegra, previously the Chief Legal and Government Relations Officer at the Port of Cleveland, has been named President — Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas, effective January 2, 2025.

"Maria has an impressive list of accomplishments in utility regulation and creating successful engagement strategies within the government, private and public sectors," according to Scott Lauber, President and Chief Executive Officer — WEC Energy Group. "I know her broad experience, along with her strong leadership, will be instrumental in helping us achieve our goals in Illinois."

Bocanegra will have primary responsibility for managing the daily operations, strategy and administrative activities of the two Illinois utilities, which together provide safe, reliable natural gas service to nearly 1 million customers in Chicago and 54 communities in its northern suburbs. She will report to Lauber.

Bocanegra holds a bachelor's degree in political science from Quincy University and a juris doctor from DePaul University College of Law.

200-MW Solar Portfolio Completed for Alliant Energy in Iowa

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 23:08:31 GMT

The Burns & McDonnell company has completed construction of two solar energy projects for Alliant Energy in Iowa — the 150-MW Wever solar project and the 50-MW Creston solar project.

“These projects stand as a testament to Alliant Energy’s commitment to sustainability and our dedication to safety and resilience ”according to Jami Stone, construction project manager at Burns & McDonnell. “With more than 326,000 hours worked and over 420 craft workers at peak construction, we’ve demonstrated that sustainability is about protecting both people and the planet.”

A significant portion of the craftspeople came from local unions, underscoring the commitment of Burns & McDonnell to supporting the communities where it works. Through apprenticeships and other on-the-job training, the projects narrowed the gap in skilled tradespeople that had been identified in Iowa in recent years.

Xcel Energy Expanded Support to Communities and Nonprofits in 2024

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 22:48:32 GMT

Xcel Energy employees, contractors and retirees, supported by the company’s Foundation, provided over $12 million and tens of thousands of volunteer hours in 2024 to support charitable organizations and causes.

Throughout the year, they embraced opportunities to donate their time and act on a shared commitment to making a difference in their communities, volunteering more than 60,000 hours. The Foundation expanded its giving impact this year by investing $4.6 million in grant funding to 390 nonprofit organizations across its eight-state service area.

The company’s 2024 Day of Service engaged 2,200 volunteers who committed over 7,900 hours to support 110 nonprofit projects. Among the many other impacts of these projects, volunteers packed 130,000 meals, assembled 4,300 kits for teachers and distributed 4,000 dental kits. The Power Your Purpose Giving Campaign raised $2.4 million to support over 1,500 organizations. Including the Foundation match, the campaign raised a total of $4.8 million.

In Wisconsin and Michigan, the Foundation granted $362,000 to 63 local nonprofits that align with the focus areas. As a result, 11,000 trees will be planted, offsetting 7.7 tons of carbon emissions, along with many other positive community impacts from the work of the nonprofits. Employees in Wisconsin and Michigan also gave their time to causes that matter to them throughout the year. During Day of Service, 180 employees and contractors volunteered over 700 hours, conducting environmental clean-up and supporting a range of nonprofits in their work.

Wisconsin Energy Companies Release Plans to Continue Operations at Columbia Energy Center

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 08 Jan 2025 22:37:31 GMT

Columbia Energy Center co-owners – Alliant Energy, Madison Gas and Electric Company and Wisconsin Public Service Corporation – have detailed plans to shift the suspension of coal operations to the end of 2029. This shift from the previous date of 2026 provides the companies time to explore converting at least one of Columbia’s units to natural gas before the end of 2029 while also furthering reliability, supporting customer growth, maintaining affordability and continuing to advance their sustainability goals. This plan allows the companies to continue leveraging current generation assets to enhance system reliability while addressing changing market conditions.

Multiple reports have documented the industry is facing unprecedented circumstances, including changes implemented by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), the regional system operator. Recently, MISO changed the accreditation levels for different generation resources and made the direct recommendation that there’s a “need to accelerate resource additions, monitor large load additions, and delay resource retirements to reliably manage the anticipated growth in electricity demand” to support reliability and load growth.

Natural gas plays an important role in enabling the ongoing transition toward greater use of renewable resources by providing a flexible, dispatchable resource to serve customers reliably and affordably when necessary. A potential conversion, if sought by the co-owners and approved by regulators, would satisfy future capacity needs while also complementing the co-owners’ renewable resources. On behalf of customers and communities across Wisconsin, the plant’s co-owners’ commitment to carbon reduction goals remains unwavering. The co-owners are continuously analyzing market conditions and projected energy demands. Based on this data, they determined this is the best path forward to ensure continued reliability, affordability for all, and future growth preparedness. Each also reaffirmed their commitments to eliminating coal as a generation source and to pursuing their carbon reduction goals, thereby paving the way for cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions in the most cost-effective and responsible manner possible

WPS NAMED BEST MIDSIZE UTILITY IN THE MIDWEST AT KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON FOR CUSTOMERS

Mon, 02 Dec 2024 22:34:46 GMT

WPS serves approximately 466,000 electric customers and 344,000 natural gas customers in northeast and central Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is once again earning national recognition for its commitment to world-class reliability and customer service. The company has been named one of the top-performing midsize utilities as part of PA Consulting's 2024 ReliabilityOne® Awards.

"This award reflects the commitment we make to our customers every day— to ensure they have affordable, reliable and clean energy," said Mike Hooper, president — WPS. "This honor demonstrates the tireless efforts of our employees to provide customers across our region with the industry-leading service and reliability they depend on."

WPS is receiving the award from PA Consulting based on its strong reliability performance in 2023. The company has worked to strengthen the power grid by upgrading equipment, adding new technologies and moving overhead power lines underground. These innovative techniques have significantly improved reliability for homes and businesses throughout northeast and north central Wisconsin.

PA Consulting also honored WPS for its dedication to customer service and commitment to delivering reliable power to its customers.

Q3 EARNINGS REPORTS

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:39:17 GMT

Alliant Energy Corporation has announced U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and non-GAAP consolidated unaudited earnings per share (EPS) for the three months ended September 30.

“We continue to deliver solid financial and operational results while executing our customer-focused strategy,” said Lisa Barton, Alliant Energy President and CEO. “We anticipate we will be able to offset a majority of the 2024 negative temperature impacts on earnings, as reflected in our 2024 revised earnings guidance. The introduction of our 2025 earnings guidance, and reiteration of our long-term earnings growth range of five percent to seven percent reinforces the consistent performance and predictable long-term growth of the company."

MGE Energy's GAAP earnings for the third quarter of 2024 were $40.9 million, or $1.13 per share, compared to $37.9 million, or $1.05 per share, for the same period in the prior year. In the third quarter of 2024, electric net income increased $3.9 million compared to the third quarter of 2023. An increase in electric investments included in rate base and lower fuel costs contributed to increased electric earnings for the third quarter of 2024. Fuel costs during the third quarter of 2024 were lower than the 2024 fuel cost plan approved by the PSCW. Gas net income in the third quarter of 2024 remained relatively flat compared to the third quarter of 2023.

WEC Energy Group has reported net income of $240.1 million, or 76 cents per share, for the third quarter of 2024. This compares to earnings of $316.0 million, or $1.00 per share, for last year's third quarter. Third-quarter 2024 earnings include a charge of 6 cents per share related to certain capital expenditures under the Qualifying Infrastructure Plant rider that were disallowed by the Illinois Commerce Commission. Excluding this charge, WEC Energy Group's adjusted earnings for the third quarter of 2024 were 82 cents per share — a decrease of 18 cents per share compared to third-quarter 2023 earnings. For the first nine months of 2024, WEC Energy Group recorded net income based on GAAP of $1.07 billion, or $3.40 per share. This compares to earnings of $1.11 billion, or 3.52 per share, for the same period in 2023. Excluding the charge described above, WEC Energy Group's adjusted earnings for the first nine months of 2024 totaled $3.45 per share. Consolidated revenues totaled $6.3 billion for the first nine months of 2024, down $359.8 million from revenues for the first nine months of 2023.

"We delivered another solid quarter, and we remain firmly on track for a strong 2024," said Scott Lauber, president and CEO. "Our focus remains on the fundamentals of our business - financial discipline, customer satisfaction and operating efficiency — enhancing value for our customers and stockholders."

Xcel Energy has reported 2024 third quarter earnings of $682 million, or $1.21 per share, compared with $656 million, or $1.19 per share in the same period in 2023 and ongoing earnings of $707 million, or $1.25 compared with $682 million, or $1.23 per share in the same period in 2023. Third quarter ongoing earnings reflect recovery of increased infrastructure investments, partially offset by increased depreciation and interest charges.

“The U.S. energy industry is on the cusp of its biggest transition in a century,” said Bob Frenzel, chairman, president and CEO of Xcel Energy. “The unprecedented energy demand to power new technologies, grow U.S.-based manufacturing and support the electrification of our daily lives requires a fundamental shift in how our industry generates and delivers energy, while ensuring our infrastructure is designed to withstand severe weather events and other risks.”

“Xcel Energy has introduced its new five-year, $45 billion investment plan. The plan builds on Xcel Energy’s proactive efforts to meet this historic moment to make our grid cleaner, more efficient and more resilient while safely and affordably meeting the needs of our customers “

Roger Stepping Down as WUI Chairman | Thank You for Your 19 Years of Service

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:37:45 GMT

Since September of 2005, Roger Cole has been an impressive and exemplary Chairman of the Wisconsin Utility Investors (WUI). Under his leadership, WUI has successfully navigated numerous challenges, and his steady and thoughtful guidance has been invaluable to our organization. The Board of Directors at WUI deeply appreciates his unwavering commitment and dedication to our mission. We honor his 19 years of leadership and the significant contributions Roger has made during his tenure.

WISCONSIN IMPLEMENTING ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING TAX AND REGISTRATION

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:19:45 GMT

A new excise tax effective January 1, 2025, establishes an electric vehicle (EV) charging tax and requires certain persons to register for the new tax. As stipulated by 2023 Wisconsin Act 121, an excise tax of 3 cents per kilowatt-hour is due on the electricity delivered or placed into the battery or other energy storage device of an EV by a Level 3 charger, or a Level 1 or Level 2 charger installed on or after March 22, 2024, of an EV charging station.

An owner, operator, manager, or lessee of an EV charging station must register with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue using the Online Business Tax Registration prior to delivery or placement of electricity from an EV charging station that is subject to the excise tax. The registration and excise tax applies regardless of whether the charging station is available for public use and whether there is a charge to the consumer for the electricity from the EV charging station. Excise tax does not apply and registration is not required for residential EV charging stations, except for hotels.

"The excise tax represents a crucial source of revenue for maintaining Wisconsin's roadways and infrastructure," said Department of Revenue Secretary Designee David Casey. "It will help ensure continued funding for road repairs and construction as Wisconsin drivers increasingly make the switch to electric vehicles, while creating a more equitable system in which all drivers contribute to road maintenance costs."

WPS NAMED BEST MIDSIZE UTILITY IN THE MIDWEST AT KEEPING THE LIGHTS ON FOR CUSTOMERS

Wed, 27 Nov 2024 20:14:56 GMT

Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is once again earning national recognition for its commitment to world-class reliability and customer service. The company has been named one of the top performing midsize utilities as part of PA Consulting's 2024 ReliabilityOne® Awards.

"This award reflects the commitment we make to our customers every day — to ensure they have affordable, reliable and clean energy," said Mike Hooper, president — WPS. "This honor demonstrates the tireless efforts of our employees to provide customers across our region with the industry-leading service and reliability they depend on."

PA Consulting also honored WPS for its dedication to customer service and commitment to delivering reliable power to its customers.

WPS serves approximately 466,000 electric customers and 344,000 natural gas customers in northeast and central Wisconsin.

NEW MEMBERS ELECTED TO WEC ENERGY GROUP BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 20:19:40 GMT

Warner Baxter, the retired Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ameren Corp., and John Lange, the retired global head of the Energy and Industrials Groups for Barclays PLC, have been appointed to the board of directors of WEC Energy Group. Their appointments are effective January 1, 2025.

"We're very pleased that Warner and John have agreed to join our board," said Gale Klappa, chairman. "With their extensive experience in the energy sector, they will add significant depth and expertise to a highly engaged and effective board of directors."

Warner Baxter

Baxter spent more than 28 years at Ameren Corp., a Fortune 500 energy company that serves millions of electric and natural gas customers in Illinois and Missouri. He retired last year as executive chairman. He also served as chairman, president and CEO from 2014 to 2021, and previously served as Ameren's president of Ameren Missouri, executive vice president and chief financial officer, and vice president and controller.

Baxter serves on the boards of directors of U.S. Bancorp, Quanta Services, Inc. and several non-profit organizations. He is past Chair of the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and currently serves on the Edison Foundation Board. He also served as Chair of the Board and on the Executive Committee of the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). He earned a Bachelor of Science degree in accounting from the University of Missouri–St. Louis (UMSL). In 2024, Baxter also received an honorary doctorate in business administration from UMSL.

John Lange

Lange retired earlier this year as global head of the Energy and Industrials Groups for Barclays PLC after more than 28 years in investment banking. During his tenure at Barclays, Lange also served on the Investment Banking Management Committee. Before his role at Barclays, Lange led the Global Power M&A Group at Lehman Brothers.

During his career, Lange worked on numerous strategic advisory, M&A, equity, debt and project financing assignments for domestic and international clients across the utility, natural resources and industrial sectors.

Lange received his Bachelor of Arts degree from Bucknell University and his MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. Lange served on the EPRI Advisory Council and was co-chair of the Wall Street Advisory Group for EEI.

November News: MGE & WEC Declare Dividends

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 01:52:56 GMT

MGE Energy Declares Regular Dividend

The Board of Directors of MGE Energy has declared the regular quarterly dividend of 45 cents per share on the outstanding shares of the company's common stock, payable December 15, 2024, to shareholders of record at the close of business December 1, 2024.

MGE Energy has increased its dividend annually for the past 49 years and has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.

WEC Energy Group declares quarterly dividend

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 83.50 cents per share on the company's common stock.

The dividend is payable December 1, 2024, to stockholders of record on November 14, 2024. This marks the 329^th consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

Alliant Energy’s Expanded Solar Portfolio Contributes to Renewable Record

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 01:39:15 GMT

The Midcontinent Independent System Operator has set a solar energy generation record high of 6,887 megawatts thanks in part to Alliant Energy’s recent buildout of over 1,000 MW of solar capacity in Wisconsin and Iowa.

Peaking at 1,050 MW of solar generation, Alliant Energy accounted for approximately fifteen percent of the solar energy production in MISO’s multi-state region. The electricity generated by Alliant Energy’s solar sites was enough to power nearly 400,000 average homes for a day.

MGE Proposes EV Charging Pilot for Commercial Customers

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 01:34:46 GMT

Madison Gas and Electric is seeking State regulatory approval for the Commercial EV Charging Allowance (CEVCA) program. The program would provide revenue-based allowances for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure at commercial customer sites.

Commercial customers who install EV charging would receive a revenue-based allowance of $300 per kilowatt paid in two installments. If approved, the program is designed to benefit all MGE customers because the incremental load created through increased EV adoption will expand the base through which utility costs are spread.

Superior Gas Plant in Limbo After Permit Request Withdrawn

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 01:24:07 GMT

A proposed $700 million methane gas plant in Superior hit a new road bump, with the plant’s owners now moving to withdraw requests for an air permit for the facility. If the withdrawal is approved and finalized by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the proposed Nemadji Trail Energy Center (NTEC) would be required to go through an entirely new permitting and review process.

The development has forced companies with a stake in NTEC’s construction to re-evaluate the project. “Due to the extended timeline of the federal permit process, the Nemadji Trail Energy Center partners have requested that the Wisconsin DNR revoke the facility’s air permit” according to Dairyland Power Cooperative spokesperson Katie Thomson. “This is a timing issue. The window of time to construct and commission the facility allowed in the air permit is no longer achievable. Therefore, NTEC has requested the [Wisconsin DNR] revoke the project’s air permit; the project partners will determine when to re-apply based on project planning and permitting.”

Thomson added that NTEC’s owners will continue to work to ensure the project is in compliance with environmental regulations. “Recently, NTEC received its 15th regulatory agency approval, with a positive Federal Consistency Certification from the [Wisconsin Department of Administration]. We look forward to continuing to work in good faith as the approval process continues.”

Since NTEC’s owners are withdrawing their air permit application, a hearing with public testimony scheduled for December 2 will likely be canceled. Ron Binzley, a permitting manager in the DNR’s Bureau of Air Management, said that processing such a request “would not take long, a matter of days at most.” Binzley said in an email to Wisconsin Examiner that if NTEC’s construction permit were also revoked, then the gas plant would not be able to break ground without first submitting a new construction permit application and receiving that permit from the DNR.

Nine Alliant Energy Solar Projects Earn Sustainability Award

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 01:17:19 GMT

The Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure (ISI) has awarded nine of Alliant Energy’s solar projects with its highest award level – Envision Platinum – for the sustainable development, construction and operation of the facilities.

The nine Wisconsin solar projects total 664 megawatts (MW) and represent the successful execution of Alliant Energy’s Clean Energy Blueprint, a roadmap to diversify its energy resources. All nine projects were placed into service by the end of 2023 as the energy company delivers on its purpose to serve customers and build stronger communities in a safe, cost-effective and reliable manner.

“As we transition to a more diverse energy mix, the sustainable development, construction, and operation of these solar projects will benefit local communities,” according to David de Leon, President of Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin energy company. “To have some of the first solar projects in the state recognized under this framework showcases us as a leading energy company as we work to fulfill our commitment to generating cleaner energy and building stronger communities.”

Wisconsin Leader in Solar Power Investment

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 06 Nov 2024 01:08:16 GMT

As the U.S. transitions away from fossil fuels at a faster pace than many people realize, Wisconsin has invested most in solar power compared to other clean energy technologies, a new report by a leading climate change science organization has found.

Climate Central, a nonprofit group led by a team of scientists, analyzed each state's public and private spending on clean energy since 2018 using data from the Clean Investment Monitor, a joint project of Rhodium Group and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology's Center for Energy and Environmental Policy Research. In total, the nation spent nearly $248 billion in 2023, triple what it spent in 2018.

That includes $6 billion spent in Wisconsin, the majority of it invested in solar energy. The state is an outlier among its neighbors in the upper Midwest, most of whom invested more heavily in electric vehicles. And it's in the middle of the pack nationally for how much it spent overall on clean energy technologies.

Grazing Sheep Keep Things Neat at MGE Solar Site

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:29:58 GMT

When Beau Stafford started Wiscovery Farm in 2019, he never thought that five years later he’d become the first to graze sheep at a Dane County solar site. The Fitchburg farm started small with garden compost and small hay bales, and eventually got to the point where Stafford wanted to expand into livestock.

“Originally, I figured, ‘Maybe we’ll get some beef cattle, and they’d graze about in our pasture land,’” Stafford recalled. “Then, all of a sudden, we get a flier in the mail.”

The flier was about a public engagement meeting for a solar site planned near his farm Stafford went to an open house to talk with developers about concerns related to what they’d plant at the facility and how it might impact his farm. The conversation eventually turned to the idea of grazing sheep at the solar site. Stafford said that conversation got the wheels turning in his mind.

“As a kid, I helped raise lambs for the fair with my neighbor and I thought, ‘Well, I have experience raising sheep, not running a flock, but at least individual sheep,’” he said. “We have young kids, and we thought, ‘Maybe that would be a better route to go for livestock rather than doing cows or beef, because they’re pretty big and for little kids it’s not great.’"

Xcel Energy Names Todd Wehner as Treasurer

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:21:57 GMT

Xcel Energy has named Todd Wehner as the company’s Treasurer and Vice President. Paul Johnson will continue to serve the company as Vice President, Treasury and Investor Relations.

"Todd is a proven financial leader who has demonstrated an ability to identify opportunities, develop strategies and deliver results," according to Bob Frenzel, Xcel Energy’s Chairman, President and CEO. "His extensive treasury and utility experience, as well as previous experience in strategic management and capital markets, will serve Xcel Energy’s customers well."

In his role, Wehner will ensure Xcel Energy’s financial stability and success by managing the funding of the company’s capital investment, as well as managing the cash function, insurance process, investment activities, capital structure and providing support in regulatory proceedings. The company’s ability to cost-effectively raise capital for its grid and energy investments will benefit its customers with long-term, lower cost energy.

"Xcel Energy is at the forefront of leading a clean energy transition, and I see an exciting opportunity to work within the complexity of its multiple operating companies across diverse states," Wehner said. "My father was a career lineworker who strove to deliver electricity to customers despite inclement weather and adverse operating conditions. I have always seen a career in the utility sector as a noble undertaking that serves our communities with the energy they depend on."

Wehner served as assistant treasurer at Michigan-based CMS Energy where he optimized the company’s capital structure and relationship with equity and debt providers and credit rating agencies. Prior, he held investment banking roles at Morgan Stanley and Barclays focused on the global utilities and chemicals industries. Wehner began his career serving as a U.S. Air Force officer both domestically and in Iraq. Wehner earned master’s degrees from the University of Michigan in sustainable systems and business administration, as well as bachelor of science degrees from Michigan Technological University in electrical and mechanical engineering.

October News: Earnings

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 13:11:06 GMT

Alliant Energy Announces Second Quarter 2024 Results

Alliant Energy has announced U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) and non-GAAP consolidated unaudited earnings per share (EPS) for the three months ended June 30.

“We are pleased with the outcome of the settlement in our Iowa rate review and confident about the positive impact it will have promoting load growth while delivering consistent earnings and ensuring base rate stability for our customers,” said Lisa Barton, Alliant Energy President and CEO. “Excluding

timing of income taxes, which will reverse by year-end, and temperature impacts, our ongoing results for the first half of 2024 were in line with our expectations.

Through regulatory progress and strong economic growth with data centers, we believe we are positioned to achieve our long-term growth objectives.”

MGE Energy Increases Dividend for the 49th Consecutive Year

The Board of Directors of MGE Energy has increased the regular quarterly dividend rate by 5.3 percent to $0.45 per share on the outstanding shares of the company’s common stock.

The dividend was payable September 15, 2024, to shareholders of record September 1, 2024. This raises the annualized dividend rate by 9 cents from $1.71 per share to $1.80 per share.

“MGE Energy continues to focus on its mission to provide safe, reliable, affordable and sustainable energy and to provide value to our customers and shareholders,” according to Chairman, President and CEO Jeff Keebler. “This action by our board reinforces our commitment to regular, predictable and sustainable dividend growth, and it signals the continued strength and resilience of MGE Energy’s long-term business strategy for building your community energy company for the future.”

MGE Energy has increased its dividend annually for the past 49 years and has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.

WPS Foundation Providing Lifesaving Equipment to First Responders

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 12:58:50 GMT

The Wisconsin Public Service Foundation is putting important new tools in the hands of the men and women who keep communities across Wisconsin safe. WPS Foundation is awarding $75,000 to help more than 40 area public safety agencies purchase lifesaving equipment.

The funding is part of the WPS Foundation’s Rewarding Responders Grant program, which supports first responders across northeast and north central Wisconsin.

“We are honored to support the brave individuals who work tirelessly to keep our neighborhoods safe, secure and welcoming,” said Beth Straka, president — WPS Foundation. “From helping children safely get to school to providing critical medical care, these grants give first responders the invaluable tools they need to serve our communities.”

Alliant Energy Named a Top Utility in Economic Development

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 12:53:51 GMT

Site Selection Magazine announced for the sixth consecutive year that Alliant Energy has earned their Top Utility in Economic Development honor. The annual list recognizes the company for its contributions to local community development and job creation.

In its September issue, Site Selection credits Alliant Energy’s economic development team, in collaboration with local, regional and state economic development partners in Iowa and Wisconsin for delivering nearly $3.5 billion in new capital investment and creating more than 4,101 new jobs in 2023.

Alliant Energy is one of 21 companies nationally named to the list and the only one in Iowa and Wisconsin. In all, there are 3,300 utility companies, including 900 electric cooperatives, in the United States. “Alliant Energy is proud to be honored as a top utility in economic development for the sixth consecutive year,” said Lisa Barton, President and CEO of Alliant Energy. “Economic development work is a team effort and vital to grow the communities we serve.

Xcel Energy Proposes New Transmission in Western Wisconsin

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 12:47:56 GMT

As the energy grid evolves in the coming years, Xcel Energy and other regional utilities are preparing to meet the changing energy needs of customers, with the goal of increasing the amount of carbon-free and renewable energy while ensuring continued electric reliability for their customers.

To deliver on its strategy, Xcel Energy has filed an application for Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin for a new high voltage transmission line that will bring renewable energy to customers in Wisconsin, improve long-term reliability, and help manage the energy grid as it evolves.

Project Details and Benefits

The Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection is a proposed new 345-kilovolt transmission line that, if approved by the PSCW, will begin near Blair, Wis., connect to existing infrastructure near Eau Claire, and then connect to existing transmission lines to the north and east. Xcel Energy has proposed two route options for the PSCW to review.

“Delivering low-cost renewable energy to customers, while also providing unmatched reliability and keeping bills affordable is how Xcel Energy will lead the clean energy transition,” according to Karl Hoesly, President, Xcel Energy-

Wisconsin. “Projects like the Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection is a key step in serving our customers with the affordable, reliable, carbon-free electricity they need while also building the grid of the future for the region.”

The Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection, along with other projects being developed in Minnesota and Wisconsin, will enable the delivery of more than 2,500 megawatts of new renewable energy to customers in the two states, enough to power more than 1.3 million homes each year.

When combined with other transmission lines being developed in the region, including the Grid Forward-Central Wisconsin project proposed by ATC and Xcel Energy, the total economic benefit could exceed $900 million. These benefits will be delivered to customers through new access to low-cost renewable energy, improved long-term reliability and system resilience, and improved system performance that will help the grid operate more efficiently. Additionally, the Western Wisconsin Transmission Connection is expected to employ approximately 350 construction workers to help build the project.

Bellin and Gundersen Health System Team Up With Xcel Energy

Tue, 01 Oct 2024 12:33:10 GMT

Bellin and Gundersen Health System have teamed up with a utility company to help create an energy-efficient healthcare campus. The newly rebranded Emplify Health has launched the project with Xcel Energy, which will result in the first 100 percent resilient and renewable energy healthcare campuses in the United States.

The all-renewable energy microgrid on the health system’s Onalaska Campus will combine a new battery energy storage system with Gundersen’s existing solar panels and energy generated through a longtime partnership with the La Crosse County Landfill for even greater sustainability and resiliency during power grid outages.

2024 WUI Annual Meeting of Members: EAA Oshkosh, WI

Mon, 23 Sep 2024 19:35:45 GMT

The 44th Annual Meeting of Members was held at the Experimental Aircraft Association Museum in Oshkosh, WI, on September 19, 2024. After the meeting, members were treated to a guided museum tour.

After the business of the Annual Meeting was concluded, including an introduction to the current board members, nominations for the next year’s board, and treasury report, a panel comprised of representatives from Alliant Energy, MGE, WEC Energy Group, and Xcel Energy, focused on their respective company’s progress and energy initiatives.

Scott Jensen, political analyst, spoke to the membership about “Why Wisconsin is the Center of the Political Universe” regarding this presidential election year and the new districting map, which has made most of the legislative districts more competitive. The makeup of the state legislature will most likely take on a more bipartisan nature in the coming year, which will encourage debate.

Following Scott Jensen, Representative David Steffen, Chair of the Committee on Energy and Utilities, reviewed the issues that had come before the committee in the past year and said the ROFR (Right of First Refusal) had narrowly lost in the Senate and would likely come up for vote again in the new session. Steffen also encouraged members to contact their legislators regarding issues that are important to them and to share their perspectives with their representatives.

The WUI Board of Directors wishes to thank all members who attended the 2024 Annual Meeting, expert panel members, and guest speakers Scott Jensen and Rep. David Steffen.

WPS Honored as One of Midwest's Leading Energy Companies

Michelle Lancaster — Sat, 31 Aug 2024 15:10:06 GMT

Wisconsin Public Service is once again receiving national recognition for providing outstanding service to its customers. J.D. Power has named WPS as the best electric utility in the Midwest for customer satisfaction and trust in a recent nationwide study.

WPS is receiving the honor based on its strong finish in the J.D. Power 2024 U.S. Electric Utility Brand Appeal Index Study. WPS finished nearly 30 points higher in the study than the average Midwest electric utility’s score.

“This honor reflects our commitment to our customers,” according to Mike Hooper, President — WPS. “From delivering affordable, reliable and clean energy around the clock to supporting worthy causes across our region, our employees are proud to support their communities every day.”

WEC Energy Group's Report Highlights Sustainable Progress

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 15:07:30 GMT

WEC Energy Group has released its 2023 Corporate Responsibility Report. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the company's environmental, social and governance performance. The report outlines the progress made by WEC Energy Group and its family of companies on major projects and the company's mission to deliver affordable, reliable and clean energy across the Midwest.

The report also examines the company's climate strategy and the research and development of emerging technologies such as renewable natural gas, hydrogen power and long-duration battery storage.

"We're pleased to report that we continued to make solid progress on our industry-leading targets for reducing carbon and methane emissions. We recently retired additional coal generation, and moved up our timeline for a complete exit from coal — now planned by the end of 2032 — while adding renewable power and efficient natural gas to reliably serve our customers," according to Scott Lauber, President and CEO. "We have served the people of the Midwest for more than a century. The future is bright, and we are dedicated to powering our communities now and for many years to come.”

XCEL ENERGY SEEKS PROPOSALS FOR NEW POWER GENERATION

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 29 Aug 2024 15:05:47 GMT

Xcel Energy is seeking proposals for a major expansion of its Texas-New Mexico power generating system as older power plants are retired in the coming years and electricity demand is forecast to increase to meet the needs of a growing regional economy.

“We have served this region for more than 100 years, and we have a strong history of investing in power generating resources to sustain the growth of our communities and key industries at key points in their development,” according to Adrian J. Rodriguez, president, Xcel Energy Texas–New Mexico. “We are excited to have another historic opportunity to realize an energy future that is cost-efficient, diverse and balanced with an aim of serving our customers economically for years to come.”

Moraine Park Technical College Joins Community Solar Garden

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 28 Aug 2024 14:31:04 GMT

Alliant Energy has broken ground on two solar projects in Janesville, both east of the Rock Haven assisted living facility. One is a 2.25-megawatt community solar garden, and the other is a 1.4-MW customer-hosted project for Rock County.

The Alliant Energy® Community Solar program allows the company’s electric customers to subscribe and benefit from solar power without installing solar panels on their property. Subscribers receive monthly credits on their electric bills for every solar block purchased.

Approximately thirty percent of the community solar garden’s 9,000 blocks remain available.

Companies Declare 2024 Second Quarterly Earnings

Michelle Lancaster — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 14:20:02 GMT

Xcel Energy Second Quarter 2024 Earnings Report

Xcel Energy has reported 2024 second quarter GAAP and ongoing earnings of $302 million, or $0.54 per share, compared with $288 million, or $0.52 per share in the same period in 2023.

Second quarter ongoing earnings reflect recovery of increased infrastructure investments and warmer than normal weather, partially offset by increased depreciation, interest charges and O&M expenses.

“Xcel Energy continues to meet the growing demand for energy from our customers while driving forward the clean energy transition and adapting to changing regulatory and environmental conditions,” said Bob Frenzel, Chairman, President and CEO of Xcel Energy. “We are reaffirming our earnings guidance of $3.50 - $3.60 per share.”

“We continue to advance proposals to enhance the resiliency and sustainability of our system for the safety and benefit of our customers. In Colorado, we filed an updated Wildfire Mitigation Plan that builds upon our existing investments,” Frenzel said. “We also supported legislation that will help the state achieve a smoother clean energy transition by enhancing the distribution system planning process in Colorado. And in Minnesota, we collaborated with stakeholders to achieve a settlement in our natural gas rate case that supports improvements while keeping our residential customers’ natural gas rates below the national average.”

WEC Energy Group Reports Second Quarter Results

WEC Energy Group has reported net income of $211.3 million, or 67 cents per share, for the second quarter of 2024 — down from $289.7 million, or 92 cents per share, in last year's second quarter. For the first six months of 2024, the company recorded net income of $833.6 million, or $2.64 per share — up from $797.2 million, or $2.52 per share, in the corresponding period a year ago. Consolidated revenues totaled $4.5 billion, down $265.9 million from the first half of 2023.

"Despite the warmest winter on record, we're delivering solid results, and we're firmly on track for a strong 2024," according to Scott Lauber, President and CEO. "We're focused on the fundamentals of our business — financial discipline, customer satisfaction and operating efficiency."

Retail deliveries of electricity — excluding the iron ore mine in Michigan's Upper Peninsula — were up by 0.5 percent in the second quarter of 2024, compared to the second quarter last year. Electricity consumption by small commercial and industrial customers was 0.3 percent higher. Electricity use by large commercial and industrial customers — excluding the iron ore mine — declined by 0.1 percent. Residential electricity use rose by 1.4 percent.

On a weather-normal basis, retail deliveries of electricity during the second quarter of this year – excluding the iron ore mine — decreased by 0.3 percent. The company is reaffirming its 2024 earnings guidance of $4.80 to $4.90 per share. This assumes normal weather for the remainder of the year.

MGE Energy Reports Second Quarter 2024 Earnings

MGE Energy's earnings for the second quarter of 2024 were $23.8 million, or $0.66 per share, compared to $28.7 million, or $0.79 per share, for the same period in the prior year.

In the second quarter of 2024, electric net income decreased $6.0 million compared to the second quarter of 2023. Second quarter results were partially driven by higher fuel costs during 2024 compared to the 2024 fuel cost plan approved by the PSCW.

Weather also was a driver of lower electric and gas sales for the quarter. Electric residential sales decreased approximately four percent and gas retail sales decreased approximately ten percent compared to the same period in the prior year.

Xcel Energy Board Declares Dividend on Common Stock

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 14:30:17 GMT

The Board of Directors of Xcel Energy has declared a quarterly dividend on its common stock of 54.75 cents per share. The dividends are payable October 20, 2024, to shareholders of record on September 13, 2024.

LARSEN TO RETIRE AS EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN OF ALLIANT ENERGY

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 20:05:10 GMT

Alliant Energy has announced that John Larsen, current Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board, has submitted his intention to retire from his executive position with the company on or before January 1, 2025. Larsen will continue as Chairman of the Board.

"On behalf of the Alliant Energy board of directors, I want to thank John for his outstanding leadership. His track record in delivering long-term value to customers, communities and shareowners is in no small part due to his strong foundation of service over the past 36 years,” according to Carol Sanders, lead independent director of the board. “John’s many accomplishments include leading the company through its expansive renewable investment in wind and solar and more recently, establishing the company’s Purpose – serving customers and building stronger communities – which remains foundational to the company strategy. We are pleased he is remaining in his capacity as Board Chairman of Alliant Energy, where we will continue to benefit from his wisdom and experience."

XCEL ENERGY SEEKS PROPOSALS FOR NEW POWER GENERATION

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 19:05:20 GMT

“We have served this region for more than 100 years, and we have a strong history of investing in power generating resources to sustain the growth of our communities and key industries at key points in their development,” according to Adrian J. Rodriguez, President, Xcel Energy Texas–New Mexico. “We are excited to have another historic opportunity to realize an energy future that is cost-efficient, diverse and balanced with an aim of serving our customers economically for years to come.”

UW-MADISON MAKES BREAKTHROUGH IN FUSION RESEARCH

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:55:34 GMT

For the first time, a fusion device at the University of Wisconsin in Madison has generated plasma, inching one step closer toward using nuclear fusion as a a new source of carbon-free energy.

The university’s physicists and engineers have been building and testing the device at a lab in Stoughton for the last four years, which is referred to as the Wisconsin HTS Axisymmetric Mirror or WHAM. The magnetic mirror device became operational on July 15.

Researchers worldwide have been working for decades to harness energy from nuclear fusion reactions that power the sun and the stars. That reaction relies on heated plasma, which is a gas of hot ions and free-moving electrons.

Cary Forest, a UW-Madison physics professor, said generating plasma is an exciting step.

Until now, nuclear power has come from fission reactors that split atoms. Fusion reactors would join atoms together. Unlike current nuclear plants, Forest said fusion would not produce radioactive waste, adding it’s also safer.

COMMISSION DRAFTS STRATEGIC ENERGY ASSESSMENT

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:52:52 GMT

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.

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.

WEC ENERGY GROUP DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:50:04 GMT

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 83.50 cents per share on the company's common stock. The dividend is payable September 1, 2024, to stockholders of record on August 14, 2024. This marks the 328th consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

XCEL ENERGY PROPOSES MAJOR INVESTMENTS TO HELP COLORADO PREVENT WILDFIRES

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:41:04 GMT

Xcel Energy has submitted its 2025-2027 Wildfire Mitigation Plan to the Colorado Public Utilities Commission. As the threat of wildfire increases in Colorado, Xcel Energy is expanding its work and programs to minimize risk associated with wildfires that could be caused by electric equipment. The plan proposes investments and improvements to existing measures while integrating industry experience, incorporating evolving risk assessment methodologies and sophisticated modeling tools and adding new technology.

ABOUT THE EAA, ANNUAL MEETING LOCATION

Mon, 29 Jul 2024 18:17:05 GMT

Founded on January 26, 1953 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as a local club for those who built and restored their own aircraft, the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) quickly grew to become a vibrant and growing aviation community that includes all who enjoy flying for recreation and welcomes all aviation enthusiasts to participate.

Today, EAA is headquartered in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, as a non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation (legal name: Experimental Aircraft Association Inc.) that includes 300,000 members in more than 100 countries.

EAA’s mission is dedicated to growing participation in aviation. We strive to make aviation easier, more accessible, more rewarding, and more fun – igniting and nurturing interest by embracing "The Spirit of Aviation" in all that we do. EAA encourages and supports:

Clear pathways that ignite and nurture interest;
A welcoming and supportive environment;
Opportunities to participate in all aspects of aviation;
Making aviation more accessible;
The camaraderie and community of aviators and enthusiasts.

WEC Energy Group Announces Pricing of Convertible Senior Notes Due 2027 and 2029

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 20:21:23 GMT

WEC Energy Group has announced the pricing of $750,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of its 4.375% convertible senior notes due 2027 (the "2027 convertible notes") and $750,000,000 in aggregate principal amount of its 4.375% convertible senior notes due 2029 (the "2029 convertible notes") and, together with the 2027 convertible notes, the "convertible notes" in a private offering to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act"). In addition, WEC Energy Group granted the initial purchasers of the convertible notes an option to purchase, within a 13-day period beginning on, and including, the date the convertible notes are first issued, up to an additional $112,500,000 in aggregate principal amount of the 2027 convertible notes and up to an additional $112,500,000 in aggregate principal amount of the 2029 convertible notes. The offering closed on May 28, 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.

The convertible notes will be senior, unsecured obligations of WEC Energy Group. Interest on the convertible notes will be paid semiannually, at a rate of 4.375% per annum (in the case of the 2027 convertible notes) and at a rate of 4.375% per annum (in the case of the 2029 convertible notes). The convertible notes will mature on June 1, 2027 (in the case of the 2027 convertible notes) and June 1, 2029 (in the case of the 2029 convertible notes), unless earlier converted or repurchased in accordance with their terms or (in the case of the 2029 convertible notes) redeemed by WEC Energy Group.

Xcel Energy Names Rob Berntsen New Executive Vice President and Chief Legal and Compliance Officer

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:42:24 GMT

Xcel Energy has named Rob Berntsen as the company’s Executive Vice President and Chief Legal and Compliance Officer. Berntsen takes over the role from Amanda Rome, who held the position on an interim basis while also serving in her role as executive vice president, group president – utilities and chief customer officer.

“With two decades’ experience working in the energy sector, Rob is well suited to guide us forward as we lead the nation’s transition to a clean energy economy,” said Bob Frenzel, Xcel Energy’s chairman, president, and CEO. “Rob’s sound legal counsel and commercial acumen will be key as we strive to deliver safe, reliable and affordable service to our customers.”

Berntsen will oversee Xcel Energy’s legal, compliance and corporate secretary and securities teams.

“The landscape of the energy sector is shifting rapidly,” Berntsen said. “In joining Xcel Energy, I am excited to help the company navigate a host of legal and compliance considerations as it continues to lead the clean energy transition.”

Most recently, Berntsen served as senior vice president, chief of staff and general counsel at BHE Renewables, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy business that develops, owns, and operates solar, wind, geothermal and hydroelectric power plants. Prior to that, Berntsen worked for MidAmerican Energy Company, where he led the utility’s legal, regulatory, rates, government affairs, compliance, and energy efficiency groups. In addition, Berntsen has held leadership roles with the Midcontinent Independent System Operator Inc. (MISO) and the Iowa Utilities Board.

A veteran, Berntsen served as a captain in the Judge Advocate General (JAG) Corps, the legal arm of the U.S. Army and deployed to Iraq in 2005 in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Berntsen earned his juris doctor degree from the University of Iowa and a Bachelor of Science degree from Georgetown University.

Companies Declare 2024 2nd Quarterly Dividends

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:26:28 GMT

MGE Energy Declares Regular Dividend

The Board of Directors of MGE Energy, has declared the regular quarterly dividend of $0.4275 per share on the outstanding shares of the company's common stock, which was payable June 15, 2024, to shareholders of record at the close of business June 1, 2024.

MGE Energy has increased its dividend annually for the past 48 years and has paid cash dividends for more than 110 years.

Xcel Energy Board Declares Dividend on Common Stock

The Board of Directors of Xcel Energy has declared a quarterly dividend on its common stock of 54.75 cents per share. The dividends are payable July 20, 2024, to shareholders of record on June 14, 2024.

Xcel Energy is a major U.S. electricity and natural gas company, with operations in 8 Western and Midwestern states.

Regen Fiber Opens Wind Turbine Blade Recycling Facility

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 15:17:45 GMT

Regen Fiber, Fairfax, Iowa, has hosted an opening ceremony and commenced production at the end-of-life wind turbine blade recycling facility at its Fairfax headquarters. The facility has the potential to create an end market for wind turbine scrap while also creating recycled content solution for concrete and asphalt producers.

Owned by Travero (Fairfax), a subsidiary of Alliant Energy, Regen Fiber announced the launch of an eco-friendly wind blade recycling process in 2023. The company noted that rather than burning blades or burying them in landfills, its process shreds the blades, extracts usable components and transforms them into premium products that are used in construction materials, such as concrete, avoiding use of heat or chemicals.

Fareway Stores Advances Sustainability Efforts with Completion of New Solar Field Partnership

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:43:48 GMT

A new partnership has given Fareway Stores access to the benefits of solar power as Alliant Energy placed the one-megawatt Fareway Solar Field into service. The project consists of nearly 2,000 solar panels at the grocery chain's distribution center in the Boone Iowa Industrial Park.

The energy company will own, operate and maintain the Fareway Solar Field as part of the Alliant Energy Customer-Hosted Renewables program. The site will generate renewable energy for all Alliant Energy customers and renewable energy credits for Fareway to offset a portion of its carbon emissions.

“This project is a terrific addition to our distribution center campus here in Boone,” according to Pat Goldsmith, Fareway’s Vice President of Facilities and Projects. “Partnering with Alliant Energy on the production of clean energy for years into the future is a great extension of our company legacy.”

Klappa, Lauber Highlight Exceptional Year for WEC Energy Group

Michelle Lancaster — Mon, 01 Jul 2024 14:30:19 GMT

At WEC Energy Group's annual meeting of stockholders, Gale Klappa, Executive Chairman, and Scott Lauber, President and CEO, highlighted another strong year on virtually every meaningful measure — from customer satisfaction, to financial performance, to steady execution of the company's capital plan. They also emphasized that it was a year of growth and dedication to the company's mission of delivering affordable, reliable and clean energy to millions of customers across the Midwest.

Company highlights

Developed the largest five-year capital plan in company history — including nearly 3,800 megawatts of new renewable capacity to serve the customers of We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service.

Completed the largest solar project in Wisconsin history as the final panels at the Badger Hollow Solar Park in southwestern Wisconsin went in service at the end of 2023.

Brought 128 megawatts of new highly efficient and flexible natural gas generation online.

Completed the construction of two liquefied natural gas facilities to support the company's power generation and gas distribution systems.

Introduced renewable natural gas (RNG) into the company's distribution network. The RNG replaces a portion of the conventional natural gas that would have entered the system. This effort contributes to WEC Energy Group's methane reduction goal and benefits the land and water of America's heartland.

Spent a record $333.7 million with certified minority-, women-, veteran- and service-disabled-owned businesses.

Returned a record $984 million to WEC Energy Group stockholders through dividends.

Increased the dividend level in January 2024 by 7% to an annual rate of $3.34 per share. This marks the 21^st consecutive year of higher dividends.

In 2024, selected by Standard and Poor's for inclusion in the High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index.

Also in 2024, selected by Standard and Poor's for inclusion in the High Yield Dividend Aristocrats Index.

Xcel Energy Continues to Deliver Progress in Achieving Carbon Reduction Goals

Michelle Lancaster — Wed, 26 Jun 2024 19:33:45 GMT

Xcel Energy has reduced carbon emissions fifty-four percent from the electricity it provides to customers from 2005 levels, the company announced in its 19th annual Sustainability Report.

Xcel Energy was the first U.S. energy provider to set aggressive goals to reduce carbon emissions from electricity, heating and transportation. The company’s 2018 goal aims to provide customers with 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2050 and reduce carbon emissions from its operations eighty percent from 2005 levels by 2030. The report shows carbon-free energy made up fifty percent of the company’s 2023 energy mix, compared to an average of forty-one percent nationwide. Over the same time span, the company cut air emissions of sulfur dioxide from its power plants by eighty-three percent and nitrogen oxides by eighty-five percent.

“Xcel Energy remains at the forefront of the clean energy transition,” said Bob Frenzel, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Xcel Energy. “Our progress in this historic transition thus far is a testament to the hard work and commitment of our employees to innovate and deliver on strategies and approaches that drive clean energy solutions.”

WE ENERGIES, WPS APPLY FOR RATE HIKES

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:33:51 GMT

We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service — both owned by WEC Energy Group — have filed applications with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to increase electric and gas rates in 2025 and 2026.

We Energies hopes to increase electric rates by 6.9 percent in 2025 and 4.6 percent in 2026, according to the utility’s application with the PSC. It also requested increases for both of the gas utilities it owns. One of the gas utilities would increase rates by 10 percent next year and 5.1 percent by 2026. The other asked to increase rates by 8.2 percent in 2025 and 3.6 percent in 2026. We Energies’ steam utility in downtown Milwaukee also asked for an 8.4 percent rate hike in 2025 but no increase in 2026.

Meanwhile, Wisconsin Public Service is requesting an 8.5 percent electric rate increase in 2025 and a 4.9 percent increase in 2026, according to the utility’s application. WPS also requested gas rate increases of 6.8 percent next year and 3.9 percent in 2026.

The rate increases need approval from the Wisconsin public Service Commission after review and potential modification.

MINNESOTA ENERGY COMPANIES RECEIVE APPROVAL TO REDUCE CONGESTION

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:31:33 GMT

Xcel Energy, Central Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Great River Energy, Missouri River Energy Services and Otter Tail Power Company will upgrade nearly 100 miles of transmission line in Minnesota and eastern South Dakota, allowing the companies and other energy providers to deliver more low-cost renewable energy to customers throughout the Upper Midwest while saving customers millions of dollars a year.

This week, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission approved the installation of a second high-voltage circuit on two segments of the existing Brookings County-Hampton transmission line. One segment of new circuit will run between Brookings, South Dakota, and Marshall, Minnesota, while the other will run between Scott and Dakota counties in Minnesota. Xcel Energy will start construction beginning in South Dakota this month.

“This project will bring low-cost renewable energy to millions of homes and businesses, supporting Xcel Energy’s clean energy vision and Minnesota’s 2040 carbon-free law,” said Ryan Long, president, Xcel Energy-Minnesota, North Dakota and South Dakota. “We thank the Commission and other parties for recognizing the value of this project, which uses existing infrastructure to decrease congestion on our transmission system while limiting the impact to landowners in the area.”

This transmission project will have far-reaching congestion relief benefits. It will provide additional capacity, allowing more low-cost generation from southwest Minnesota and eastern South Dakota to reach customers throughout the region. Wind energy does not have any fuel costs and contributes to a diversified energy mix which helps protect against rising fuel prices and saves customers money.

Most of the proposed project will not require changes to the existing transmission line route which began operation in 2015 as part of the CapX2020 project, a joint project with several energy providers. At that time, the MPUC and CapX2020 companies agreed there would likely be a need for new transmission in the future. As a result, the project team constructed the middle portion of the line between Lyon and Scott counties with two circuits and built the western and eastern segments as “double circuit capable.” This allowed the companies to meet customers’ energy needs at the time while anticipating growing demand and wind generation in the future.

GRINNELL IOWA SOLAR PARK PROJECTS UNDERWAY

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:31:02 GMT

Alliant Energy, with four Grinnell community partners, has broken ground on multiple solar projects that will total 5 megawatts at the new Grinnell Solar Park on the west side of the city. Alliant Energy will own, operate and maintain the Grinnell Solar Park as part of its Alliant Energy Customer-Hosted Renewables program.

“This new solar park showcases the benefits of renewable energy and a new source of reliable energy for the community,” according to Amanda Accola, Senior Key Account Manager for Alliant Energy. “We’re appreciative of the forward-looking partners that made these four projects possible.”

The four community partners will each have their own solar projects nestled within the park. The City of Grinnell and Grinnell College will both have 2-MW projects. Mayflower Community and Ahrens Park Foundation will have a 625-kilowatt (kW) and a 375-kW facility, respectively.

MGE SEEKS APPROVAL FOR NEW COMMUNITY SOLAR OPTION

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:28:37 GMT

MGE Energy’s utility subsidiary, Madison Gas and Electric is asking State regulators to approve a new community solar program largely based on Shared Solar, MGE's original and fully subscribed community solar program. Shared Solar II would offer participants the option to pay a minimal up-front fee to subscribe to receive energy from a local solar array for six years as the company continues to work toward reduced carbon emissions of at least 80% by 2030 (based on 2005 levels).

"MGE shares with our customers the goal of a more sustainable energy future. We continue to invest in the greater use of cost-effective, utility-scale renewable resources as we work toward our carbon reduction goals," said Jeff Keebler, MGE Chairman, President and CEO. "Shared Solar II builds on the success of our popular community solar program and provides our customers with another option for affordable, locally generated, carbon-free energy while also reducing costs for nonparticipating customers. Our Shared Solar II program also includes a proposal for a participation option for eligible low-income customers."

MGE residential and small business electric customers who choose to participate in Shared Solar II would receive carbon-free energy for up to 50% of their annual consumption and would lock in their energy rate for the six-year term of the agreement. Participating customers would pay a minimal up front participation fee based on the number of shares they choose.

A low-income alternative is also proposed for Shared Solar II. Under the proposed low-income option, eligible customers would pay a smaller up-front participation fee to reserve shares and a lower energy rate to participate. This energy rate also would be fixed for the duration of the six-year agreement. Eligible customers could include those who receive energy assistance from various sources.

ALLIANT ENERGY NAMED ONE OF THE MOST TRUSTWORTHY COMPANIES

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:27:55 GMT

Newsweek recently announced their list of the Most Trustworthy Companies in America – for the third year in a row, Alliant Energy was included. This prestigious award is presented by Newsweek and Statista Inc., the world-leading statistics portal and industry ranking provider.

The Most Trustworthy Companies in America 2024 have been chosen based on a holistic approach to evaluating trust. The three main public pillars of trust were considered: customer trust, investor trust, and employee trust.

Statista conducted an analysis involving three key steps: defining the market by focusing on US-based companies with revenues exceeding $500 million, conducting an extensive survey with approximately 25,000 US residents who rated companies based on the three main public pillars of trust, resulting in 97,000 evaluations and employing social listening to monitor over 523,000 mentions of companies across various online media segments to assess sentiment.

WEC ENERGY GROUP TO ACQUIRE MAJORITY OWNERSHIP OF DELILAH PROJECT

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:27:24 GMT

WEC Energy Group has agreed to acquire a ninety percent ownership interest in the Delilah I Solar Energy Center.in Texas.

Delilah I is a 300-megawatt project located approximately 140 miles northeast of Dallas. The project was developed and built by Invenergy — a leading global developer and operator of sustainable energy solutions. Commercial operation is expected to begin by the end of June.

Delilah I will generate renewable energy under a long-term power purchase agreement with a global automaker. WEC Energy Group's investment is expected to total $459 million for the 90% ownership interest.

"The Delilah Solar project is an exciting addition to our Infrastructure business and highlights our continued investment in affordable, reliable and clean energy. This project will help one of the world's largest automakers meet their clean energy goals for years to come," said Gale Klappa, Executive Chairman.

MGE ENERGY FIRST-QUARTER 2024 EARNINGS

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:26:49 GMT

MGE Energy has reported financial results for the first quarter of 2024. Earnings for the first quarter of 2024 were $33.8 million, or $0.93 per share, compared to $31.1 million, or $0.86 per share for the same period in the prior year.

In the first quarter of 2024, electric net income increased $2.5 million compared to the first quarter of 2023. The first-quarter results were primarily driven by an increase in investments included in rate base.

Despite having one of the warmest February months on record, gas net income in the first quarter of 2024 remained relatively flat compared to the first quarter of 2023.

ALLIANT ENERGY HONORED FOR COMMITMENT TO VETERANS

Fri, 31 May 2024 13:26:02 GMT

For the second consecutive year, VETS Indexes recognized Alliant Energy as a 3 Star Employer. The award recognizes the organization’s commitment to recruiting, hiring, retaining, developing and supporting veterans and the military-connected community.

“The diligent efforts of Alliant Energy to hire, retain and support veterans and the military-connected community have earned the organization a highly coveted VETS Indexes Employer Award,” said George Altman, president of VETS Indexes. “Even with hundreds of employers in the running, Alliant Energy demonstrated a strong dedication to veteran employment. Congratulations to Alliant Energy on this achievement!”

Alliant Energy Honored for Commitment to Veterans

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 03 May 2024 15:26:12 GMT

For the second consecutive year, VETS Indexes has recognized Alliant Energy as a 3 Star Employer. The award recognizes the organization’s commitment to recruiting, hiring, retaining, developing and supporting veterans and the military-connected community.

“The diligent efforts of Alliant Energy to hire, retain and support veterans and the military-connected community have earned the organization a highly coveted VETS Indexes Employer Award,” said George Altman, president of VETS Indexes. “Even with hundreds of employers in the running, Alliant Energy demonstrated a strong dedication to veteran employment. Congratulations to Alliant Energy on this achievement!”

Alliant Energy works proactively to match veteran candidates with available career opportunities and supports the personal and professional development of veterans through an employee-driven Veterans Alliance resource group. Additionally, veterans in the craft trades have benefited from the thousands of local construction jobs and new training opportunities spurred by the company’s recent energy investments.

“It’s an honor to be recognized as a 3 Star Employer by VETS Indexes,” said Diane Cooke, vice president and chief human resource officer at Alliant Energy. “The unique skills, training and dedication veterans bring to our team helps us deliver the energy solutions and exceptional service customers and communities count on – safely, efficiently and responsibly. We’re proud to support our veterans and deliver on our purpose-driven strategy to serve customers and build stronger communities.”

Unregulated environmental report mischaracterizes Alliant Energy

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 03 May 2024 15:13:43 GMT

Alliant Energy is aware of and has reviewed the recently published 2023 IQAir report, in which Beloit, Wisconsin, is identified as the most polluted city in the U.S. Recent media coverage of the report inaccurately states that Alliant Energy’s Riverside and West Riverside Energy Center plays a significant impact in the air quality of Beloit, Wisconsin. The media reports are simply not fact. Many factors impact air quality – and, in the summer of 2023, Canadian wildfires significantly impacted air quality across the Midwest and much of the nation, as stated by the 2023 IQAir report, but omitted from most of the media coverage.

Alliant Energy is committed to complying with all environmental requirements and operates its assets in a manner that is protective of the air quality standards established by the US Environmental Protection Agency and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and approved operational permits. In fact, prior to its construction, Alliant Energy’s West Riverside facility was required to, and did obtain, air pollution control permits to construct and operate the facility in accordance with the federal and state requirements. Alliant Energy supports transparency and reports its compliance status with these requirements to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) semi-annually.

In contrast to the stringent guidelines set in place by the EPA and WDNR, the 2023 IQAir report is created by third-party public monitors for which quality assurance is limited, nor is oversight provided by state or federal regulators. Alliant Energy has a long and positive partnership with the City of Beloit. Prior to the Energy Center’s construction, several listening sessions and open houses were conducted in the surrounding community to enhance engagement and awareness of the plant’s features and impacts.

The generating station was designed to be efficient and flexible to compliment significant renewable energy resources and, with sustainability in mind to promote community, environmental and economic benefits. It has received several awards and recognitions including an Envision Platinum award from the Institute for Sustainable Infrastructure– the highest attainable Envision recognition level.

Xcel Energy Celebrates 100 Years of Service

Michelle Lancaster — Fri, 03 May 2024 14:15:50 GMT

Xcel Energy’s Wisconsin and Michigan operating company, Northern States Power-Wisconsin, is commemorating 100 years of service to the communities it serves and reaffirming its dedication to powering customers’ homes and businesses while leading the clean energy transition.

The company’s journey began when Northern States Power Company of Minnesota purchased the Wisconsin-Minnesota Light and Power Company which had recently completed construction of the Wissota Hydroelectric Project. The newly acquired company, with headquarters that moved from La Crosse to Eau Claire, was renamed Northern States Power-Wisconsin on April 7, 1924.

“Over the last century, our company has worked with our customers and communities through challenges like the Great Depression, World War II, the “Big Wind” of 1980, numerous natural disasters, recessions and the pandemic – to name a few,” according to Karl Hoesly, President, NSP-Wisconsin. “It hasn’t always been easy, but our ability to adapt, evolve and thrive while staying true to our core values is a point of immense pride.”

Throughout its history, the company expanded by offering natural gas service and through acquisitions and mergers to include customers in northern Wisconsin and Michigan's Upper Peninsula, further strengthening its reach.

Since 2000, the company has been known as Xcel Energy, and today serves 250,000 electricity and 114,000 natural gas customers in northwestern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. It is one of four operating companies under the Xcel Energy family that serves 3.7 million of electricity and 2.1 million natural gas customers across eight Midwestern and Western states.

In 2018, Xcel Energy was the first utility in the nation to set a bold vision to reduce carbon emissions by 80% by 2030 and provide customers with 100% carbon-free electricity by 2050. With a steadfast commitment to providing reliable and affordable energy service, Xcel Energy and its employees champion economic development, charitable giving and volunteerism throughout the communities it serves.

“We are incredibly thankful for the strong relationships and support from the more than 500 communities we serve,” said Hoesly. “We find value in connecting with and managing the energy needs of our customers and communities, towns, and working side-by side to help our Wisconsin and Michigan communities prosper – we look forward to doing that for another 100 years.

Solar Farm Near Nekoosa Equipped With Bird Boxes

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 02 May 2024 19:35:41 GMT

A solar farm in the Town of Saratoga has installed six new houses for some neighbors to move in, but they’re for birds, not humans.

Goose is an American Kestrel. It’s a species of falcon often confused for mourning doves. Goose, along with Central Wisconsin Kestrel Research, has been working with Alliant Energy to install nesting boxes for kestrels at the Wood County Solar Project in the Town of Saratoga.

“They are cavity nesters and if you put up a cavity for them to nest in, they will use it if the habitat is suitable,” said Amber Eschenbauch, cofounder of the Central Wisconsin Kestrel Research Program.

Six new bird boxes were put in with help from Nekoosa eighth-grade tech ed students who have been working on the project for a year.

Oil Pipeline Issues Continue in Northern Wisconsin

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 02 May 2024 19:26:09 GMT

The US Department of Justice has sided with a Native American tribe in claiming a massive underground pipeline carrying fuel from Wisconsin to Canada is trespassing on tribal lands.

In an amicus brief filed in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit, DOJ lawyers agreed with the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians in arguing that Enbridge Energy Company, is "liable for trespass" due to its operation of Line 5, a pipeline that moves millions of gallons of crude oil and natural gas liquids each day between Superior, Wisconsin, and Sarnia, Ontario,

Roughly 12 miles of Line 5 cross into the Reservation of the Bad River Band in northern Wisconsin, and the pipeline was constructed along "rights-of-way" obtained by the Department of Interior in the 1950s and renewed multiple times over the following decades. Enbridge’s rights-of-way for 12 parcels of land that are at the center of the lawsuit expired in 2013, and the tribe did not consent to their renewal. After the tribe sued in 2019, the Department of Interior denied the energy company’s request for renewal in 2020.

We Energies and WPS Apply for Rate Hikes

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 02 May 2024 19:15:29 GMT

Wisconsin’s Energies and WPS are requesting about $800 million in rate increases over the next two years. The companies have filed applications with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to increase electric and gas rates in 2025 and 2026. We Energies has increased electric rates each year since 2019, following four years when rates fell slightly. We Energies’ says electric rates went up by 9.2 percent in 2023 and 2.3 percent this year.

We Energies hopes to increase electric rates by 6.9 percent in 2025 and 4.6 percent in 2026. It has also requested increases for both of the gas utilities it owns. One of the gas utilities would increase rates by ten percent next year and 5.1 percent by 2026. The other asked to increase rates by 8.2 percent in 2025 and 3.6 percent in 2026. We Energies’ steam utility in downtown Milwaukee also asked for an 8.4 percent rate hike in 2025, but no increase in 2026.

Wisconsin Public Service is requesting an 8.5 percent electric rate increase in 2025 and a 4.9 percent increase in 2026. WPS also requested gas rate increases of 6.8 percent next year and 3.9 percent in 2026.

If approved, a typical residential We Energies customer’s electric bills could rise between $10 and $11 per month in 2025 and between $7 and $8 in 2026, the utility estimates. A typical residential WPS customer’s electric bill could rise by between $10 and $12 a month next year and between $5 and $6 the following year.

1st Quarter 2024 Utility Reported Earnings and Dividends

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 02 May 2024 19:04:48 GMT

ALLIANT RELEASES EARNINGS

Alliant Energy has announced first-quarter earnings that aligned closely with analyst expectations. The company reported a GAAP earnings per share (EPS) of $0.62, consistent with the estimated earnings per share of $0.62. This performance reflects a slight decrease from the previous year's EPS of $0.65. Alliant Energy, the parent company of Interstate Power and Light and Wisconsin Power and Light, serves nearly 1 million electric customers and 425,000 natural gas customers, while also holding a 16 percent interest in American Transmission Company.

WEC ENERGY GROUP DECLARES QUARTERLY DIVIDEND

The Board of Directors of WEC Energy Group has declared a quarterly cash dividend of 83.50 cents per share on the company's common stock.

The dividend is payable June 1, 2024, to stockholders of record on May 14, 2024. This marks the 327th consecutive quarter — dating back to 1942 — that the company will have paid a dividend to its stockholders.

WEC ENERGY GROUP REPORTS FIRST-QUARTER RESULTS

WEC Energy Group has reported net income of $622.3 million, or $1.97 per share, for the first quarter of 2024 — up from $507.5 million, or $1.61 per share, in last year's first quarter. Consolidated revenues totaled $2.7 billion, down $207.9 million from the first quarter a year ago.

"Throughout the warmest winter in Wisconsin history, we remained laser focused on financial discipline, operating efficiency, and customer satisfaction," according to Gale Klappa, Executive Chairman. "And we're confident that we can deliver another year of strong results — in line with our guidance for 2024."

For the quarter, natural gas deliveries in Wisconsin — excluding natural gas used for power generation — fell by 5.8 percent compared to the first quarter of 2023. Retail deliveries of electricity — excluding the iron ore mine in Michigan's Upper Peninsula — were down by 0.3 percent in the first quarter of 2024, compared to the first quarter last year. Electricity consumption by small commercial and industrial customers rose by 0.7 percent. Electricity use by large commercial and industrial customers — excluding the iron ore mine — declined by 0.7 percent.

XCEL ENERGY FIRST QUARTER 2024 EARNINGS REPORT

Xcel Energy has reported 2024 first quarter GAAP and ongoing earnings of $488 million, or $0.88 per share, compared with $418 million, or $0.76 per share in the same period in 2023. First quarter GAAP and ongoing diluted earnings per share were $0.88 in 2024 compared with $0.76 in 2023.

Xcel Energy reaffirms 2024 EPS guidance of $3.50 to $3.60 per share First quarter ongoing earnings results reflect increased recovery of infrastructure investments and lower O&M expenses, partially offset by increased interest charges and depreciation.

WE ENERGIES SEEKS PSC PERMISSION TO BUILD NATURAL GAS POWER PLANT IN OAK CREEK

Michelle Lancaster — Thu, 02 May 2024 18:15:36 GMT

We Energies expects to have a new $1.2 billion natural-gas powered generating plant online in Oak Creek in about four years. The utility has filed proposals with state regulators to build the 1,100-megawatt plant, a smaller natural-gas generating facility near its Paris solar farm and 33 miles of gas pipelines to supply the new installations and a previously proposed liquefied natural gas storage facility in Oak Creek.

In all, the proposals outline about $1.8 billion in spending, all of which requires approval from the Wisconsin Public Service Commission.

According to filings with the PSC, the spending includes $1.2 billion to build a new natural-gas generating plant on land south of Milwaukee that today includes the Oak Creek Power Plant and Elm Road Generating station. The plant would consist of five, 220 megawatt General Electric turbines, giving it about the same capacity as the Oak Creek plant, a coal-burning plant that We Energies will begin retiring this year. The company expects the plant to be complete in late 2027 or early 2028.

It will spend $280 million to install seven 18.8 megawatt reciprocating internal combustion engines near the company's Paris Solar Farm in Kenosha County. The 128 megawatt installation is expected to be complete in 2026.

$180 million will be spent to build 33 miles of gas pipeline connecting the Oak Creek and Paris installations to existing natural gas infrastructure.

About $200 million will be used to build a liquefied natural gas storage system on the site to ensure an adequate fuel supply for the new generating plant, natural gas customers, and the eventual conversion of the Elm Road Generating Station.

WE ENERGIES PLANS $335 MILLION INVESTMENT IN DATA CENTERS

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:11:01 GMT

We Energies expects to spend about $335 million to build electric distribution infrastructure to serve Microsoft's data center development in Mount Pleasant. A recent filing with the state Public Service Commission seeks to defer accounting for the costs until the project is complete. We Energies in the application said it needs to begin construction by June to meet Microsoft's needs.

Data centers are massive users of electricity that run around the clock to support cloud computing and other data-intensive applications. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, data centers consume up to fifty times the energy of a similarly sized-office space and account for about two percent of all electricity use in the U.S.

The PSC application identifies three work areas with the most immediate spending, about $50 million, focused on the area where Microsoft's $1 billion first phase of construction is already underway. Microsoft bought that 315-acre property in May, 2023, and began site work on the first of two buildings in July. A February 27th construction update states foundation work is nearly complete and said work has begun on the building's steel structure. We Energies will soon begin work on a distribution substation on the western part of the parcel.

BILL CONCERNING TRANSMISSION LINES PASSES STATE ASSEMBLY BUT FAILS ACTION IN THE SENATE

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:09:28 GMT

Legislation that would have allowed Wisconsin utility companies to continue building new power lines in Wisconsin, passed the Assembly but failed to get Senate approval before the end of the session.

The legislation would have given owners of transmission lines in the state the right of first refusal to build new lines that connect to their existing infrastructure. It came after the Midwest grid operator approved $10 billion in work on new transmission lines over the next decade, with about $2 billion in Wisconsin.

The bill would have boosted the reliability of Wisconsin’s electrical grid and preserved the authority of the state’s Public Service Commission to decide who can own and operate the infrastructure rather than ceding control to out-of-state regulators. It would also have allowed Wisconsin utilities and their shareholders to enjoy the economic benefits associated with building and operating transmission infrastructure.

Groups supporting the bill include multiple utilities, Wisconsin Utility Investors, labor unions and local economic development organizations. Also lobbying for the bill was American Transmission Co., or ATC, which owns and operates much of Wisconsin’s transmission line system. Those opposed to the bill included consumer advocacy groups, like AARP and the Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin, as well as Clean Wisconsin and several other conservative groups.

UTILITIES WEIGH POWER DEMAND FROM AI AMID CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:08:02 GMT

As big tech companies race to capitalize on artificial intelligence, utilities in Wisconsin are assessing how to balance surges in demand for power amid the clean energy transition.

Executives from some of the largest utility and transmission companies serving Wisconsin took part in a series of panel discussions about the state’s energy future. They, along with advocates for local governments and large industrial energy users, talked about managing increased demand for power amid the rapid development of artificial intelligence, or AI, and other technologies. The forums were hosted by Competitive Wisconsin, Inc. and broadcast on Wisconsin Eye.

REPUBLICAN LAWMAKER WANTED LOCAL VOICE ON WIND, SOLAR PROJECTS

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:07:19 GMT

Legislation that would have put local communities in charge of local wind and solar projects failed action at the end of the session.

“This bill will give local municipalities a voice and provide local elected officials the final say on whether or not a wind or solar project can be constructed within their city, village or town,“ according to author Wisconsin Representative Bodden.

Currently, the PSC makes decisions about wind and solar farms in Wisconsin. But that has, at times, put state regulators in charge of projects that don’t have unanimous local support.

“I have been inundated with messages from constituents who heavily oppose these massive wind energy projects being proposed in our area. These life-altering projects for communities should involve government at the local level,” Bodden added. His plan would have stopped the PSC from issuing a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity or a Certificate of Authority for any project unless local leaders are on-board.

“Recently, there have been grassroots community informational meetings held to inform the public of the potential downsides of these projects, and these efforts have been growing fast. Communities and locals should have a say,” Bodden said. As the Senate session ended, it failed to take action on Bodden’s bill.

PEOPLE: April

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 16:01:10 GMT

CHRISTIE RAYMOND APPOINTED TO ALLIANT ENERGY BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Alliant Energy Corporation has announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Christie Raymond as a new independent director, effective April 1, 2024. Raymond, 54, brings over 30 years of expertise in marketing, data analytics, new and traditional media, operations, strategic planning, customer satisfaction and several other critical business areas of focus important to the energy industry. Currently, she holds the position of Chief Marketing Officer at Kohl’s.

“We are excited to welcome Christie to Alliant Energy’s Board of Directors,” said John Larsen, Executive Chairman and Chairman of the Board. “Her addition brings a wealth of expertise in customer insights, analytics and engagement. Ultimately, this extensive knowledge will significantly assist us in advancing the customer experience as we deliver on our purpose-driven strategy.”

HOOPER NAMED PRESIDENT OF WE ENERGIES AND WISCONSIN PUBLIC SERVICE

Wisconsin Energy Group has announced that Michael Hooper, currently President and Chief Operating Officer of Northern Indiana Public Service Company a subsidiary of NiSource has been named President of We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service, effective April 1, 2024.

"We're fortunate to have Mike join our senior leadership team," according to Scott Lauber, President and Chief Executive Officer of WEC Energy Group. "He has an impressive record of accomplishments in our industry along with proven leadership skills. His broad experience, together with his demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex projects, will be key in helping us achieve our long-term goals."

Hooper will have primary responsibility for the electric and gas distribution business, customer service, power generation and major projects for We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service.

Hooper holds a bachelor's degree in mechanical engineering from West Virginia Institute of Technology and is a graduate of the Strategic Leadership Program from the Fisher College of Business at The Ohio State University.

FEDERAL MONEY COULD SUPERCHARGE STATE EFFORTS TO PRESERVE NUCLEAR POWER

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 15:58:13 GMT

In the coming years, a nuclear power plant on the shores of Lake Michigan could become the first in the country to restart operations after shutting down. The Palisades plant in southwest Michigan could be revived by a $1.5 billion loan from the U.S. Department of Energy, according to Bloomberg. Federal officials have not yet confirmed the funding, but Dr. Kathryn Huff, Assistant Secretary in the agency’s Office of Nuclear Energy, has said it would be “exciting” and “historic” to see the plant return to life.

The potential federal investment comes as state leaders in Michigan and elsewhere have worked to preserve their nuclear power capacity. Democratic Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer successfully pushed for $150 million in state funding last year to support the Palisades restart. The plant is owned by Florida-based Holtec International, which bought it in 2022 to decommission it.

Reviving the plant “is really significant to make sure we can meet our clean-energy goals,” according to Kara Cook, Chief of Staff with the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. “This is really important to us not only from a climate perspective, but also the economic impact on the region.”

ALLIANT ENERGY BRINGS SIX NEW SOLAR PROJECTS ONLINE

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 16:46:55 GMT

Alliant Energy has announced the completion of six new large scale solar energy plants, adding 514 megawatts of solar energy to the electric grid, which will power around 135,000 homes annually.

"Completing these projects is a huge milestone and a pivotal moment in our journey toward a brighter energy future,” said David de Leon, Alliant Energy’s Wisconsin President. Alliant Energy is a Wisconsin-based electric and natural gas utility that serves the greater south- central region of the state as well as parts of the northeast.

The company has promoted its commitment to expanding renewable energy generation in Wisconsin and has been developing a total of 12 solar projects over the last few years. Alliant Energy has installed over 2 million solar panels in the state of Wisconsin so far. Utility scale solar projects often lease land from local landowners and farmers to site solar fields that cover hundreds of acres. The company is celebrating the completion of six solar sites — ranging from 50 to 150 megawatts — built in Green, Grant, Sheboygan, Rock, Dodge, and Waushara Counties. Nearly 1,000 workers were employed during construction of the solar projects, according to a news release.

NEW BILL WOULD GIVE REGULATORS MORE AUTHORITY OVER CONSTRUCTION PLANS

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 15:48:49 GMT

A bill recently introduced in the state Legislature would give the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin greater control over utility plans for future construction projects.

Under the proposal, electric utilities and cooperatives would have to seek approval from state regulators for two-year construction plans for large-scale electric generating facilities, small generating sites and transmission lines. The Public Service Commission, or PSC, typically approves most utility construction projects individually, rather than looking at integrated resource and reliability plans biennially.

The bill would also give the PSC the authority to require utilities to use a financing mechanism to reduce the impact on consumer electricity rates when coal plants shut down.