Wisconsin Utilities Go Green Despite Federal Pullback

Wisconsin's power companies are proving that climate action doesn't need to wait for Washington. As federal commitment to the Paris Climate Agreement fades, Wisconsin Public Service is accelerating its clean energy expansion with solar farms, wind turbines, and groundbreaking battery technology.

The timing feels almost defiant. Just as the U.S. prepares to withdraw from international climate commitments, Wisconsin utilities are building the infrastructure that will power homes and businesses without burning fossil fuels.

WPS spokesperson Matt Cullen says the company now delivers reliable clean energy through renewable facilities across the state. The utility recently opened Wisconsin's first large-scale battery storage system, which captures solar and wind energy during peak production hours and releases it when families need it most.

The numbers tell an encouraging story. Since 2005, WPS has cut its carbon emissions by more than half. The company aims to reach net carbon neutrality by 2050, and they're ahead of schedule.

The Ripple Effect

This clean energy expansion reaches beyond environmental benefits. WPS customers have saved tens of millions of dollars through renewable energy projects, proving that going green doesn't have to mean paying more.

The utility offers programs that let customers choose how their electricity gets generated. Through NatureWise and renewable pathway options, residents and businesses can power their homes with sun, water, and wind instead of coal and natural gas.

Even without federal tax credits that recently expired, these programs continue growing. Local investment is filling the gap that Washington left behind.

The electric power sector creates about 25% of America's greenhouse gas emissions, according to the EPA. Every utility that transitions to clean sources makes a measurable difference in the air we breathe and the climate we're leaving to future generations.

Wisconsin's commitment shows that states and companies can lead on climate action regardless of federal policy. When one level of government steps back, another steps forward.

The clean energy revolution is happening one utility at a time, one solar panel at a time, one community at a time.