LEGISLATION MAINTAINS WISCONSIN CONTROL OVER TRANSMISSION SYSTEM

Recently introduced legislation (SB 481/AB 470) will allow Wisconsin utilities to maintain control over construction and operation of transmission infrastructure in this state. Without these bills, out of state investors will be allowed build and operate any new transmission lines which will not only harm investors but also consumers because a balkanized system will inevitably be more costly to build an operate.

Specifically, the bills provide a right of first refusal to incumbent transmission line owner/operators for any new transmission line projects. This will protect the current system which is owned and operated primarily by Xcel Energy and the American Transmission Company which, in turn, is owned by Alliant Energy, Madison Gas and Electric, WEC Energy Group and several Wisconsin municipal utilities.

These bills are of critical importance to protecting the dividends of Wisconsin utility investors. Please take the time to send a message to your State Senator and Representative and urge them to support SB 481 and AB 470. Click here to identify your elected officials and send them an email.