Customers First Coalition Blog

Save the Date - Power Breakfast 2026

Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:20:27 GMT

Join us for CFC's Annual Power Breakfast: Understanding Utility Costs in 2026

Madison, WI - Join the Customers First Coalition for our annual Power Breakfast as we bring together policymakers, energy leaders, and stakeholders to explore the key drivers shaping energy costs in Wisconsin.

This year’s discussion will focus on how global fuel markets, infrastructure investment, and customer usage — especially during Wisconsin winters — influence energy bills, and how effective utility regulation helps manage these pressures.

�� Join us for breakfast and a high-impact policy discussion at the Premier Park Hotel on Tuesday, September 15, 2026 from 8:30 am - 11:00 am!

Stay tuned for registration details soon!

Electric Wire, Episode 59 - Alex Moe of WisBusiness.com

Fri, 10 Apr 2026 18:46:14 GMT

Nuclear Energy’s Comeback? A Conversation with WisBusiness Reporter Alex Moe

Nuclear energy is once again taking center stage in Wisconsin’s energy conversation.

In a recent episode of The Electric Wire podcast , Customers First Coalition Executive Director Kristin Gilkes sat down with Alex Moe to discuss his reporting on renewed interest in nuclear energy development.

Moe’s reporting highlights efforts by utilities and developers to explore new nuclear generation at the former Kewaunee Power Station site—part of a broader trend as policymakers and industry leaders look for reliable, low-emission energy sources.

Watch or listen to the the full episode of the Electric Wire podcast where ever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here:
https://youtu.be/8-lx0dVV3HE

Read Moe's article, here:

https://www.wisbusiness.com/2026/effort-to-revive-kewaunee-county-site-comes-amid-rising-interest-in-nuclear-energy/

Kristin also recently joined Alex on WisBusiness: the Podcast to discuss data centers and affordability:
https://www.wisbusiness.com/2026/wisbusiness-the-podcast-with-kristin-gilkes-customers-first-coalition/

CFC Executive Director Discusses Global Energy Prices and Consumer Impacts at WisPolitics Panel

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 14:40:45 GMT

Assessing the U.S. and International Energy Landscape in a Time of War

Customers First! Coalition Executive Director Kristin Gilkes joined a panel of national and state leaders this week for a WisPolitics–State Affairs virtual luncheon titled “Assessing the U.S. and International Energy Landscape in Time of War.” The panel focused on how global conflicts — particularly the ongoing conflict involving Iran and instability in key oil shipping routes — are affecting energy prices and consumers.

According to a WisPolitics summary of the event, panelists agreed that energy consumers are currently bearing the brunt of rising global energy prices, while some oil- and natural gas-producing regions are seeing short-term economic benefits.

During the discussion, Gilkes emphasized that those most exposed to volatile energy prices — including low- and middle-income households, rural residents, and large industrial energy users — are often the most affected when global fuel prices spike.

“Those who are most exposed to volatile energy prices will likely see the greatest impact from the conflict,” Gilkes said during the panel. “Obviously, we want to help mitigate those shocks through effective utility regulation that encourages utilities to do long-term planning, use hedging, and use long-term contracts to help keep those prices low.”
— WisPolitics coverage of the event

Panelists discussed how global energy markets are interconnected, meaning conflicts abroad can quickly affect gasoline, natural gas, and electricity prices in the United States and in Wisconsin. Recent fuel price increases have been tied in part to disruptions in global oil shipments moving through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy shipping routes.

The panel also discussed the broader economic impacts of rising fuel prices, including impacts on manufacturing, agriculture, and transportation — all of which ultimately affect household costs.

The event featured:

Former U.S. Ambassador to the Czech Republic Rick Graber
Former U.S. Ambassador to Luxembourg Tom Barrett
Former Congressman and Wisconsin Cabinet Secretary Peter Barca
Customers First! Coalition Executive Director Kristin Gilkes

Watch the full panel discussion on WisconsinEye:

https://wiseye.org/2026/03/24/wispolitics-and-state-affairs-assessing-the-u-s-and-international-energy-landscape-in-time-of-war/

Read the WisPolitics coverage of the event:

https://www.wispolitics.com/2026/energy-consumers-taking-a-hit-from-iran-conflict-panelists-say/

Electric Wire, Episode 58 - A Look Back at 2025 on the Electric Wire

Wed, 31 Dec 2025 15:04:07 GMT

The Electric Wire 2025 Year in Review

As 2025 came to a close, The Electric Wire podcast took a look back at some of the most important conversations shaping the energy landscape in Wisconsin and beyond. The Year in Review episode, released December 30, 2025, highlights key moments from a year of discussions on reliability, affordability, regulation, and the future of the electric grid.

Throughout 2025, the podcast featured leaders from across the energy industry — including utilities, policymakers, and industry experts — all focused on one central question: How do we keep electricity reliable and affordable while the energy industry undergoes significant change?

The Year in Review episode featured highlights from several important conversations:

Troy Adams , CEO and General Manager of Manitowoc Public Utilities, discussed the Refuel Renewable Project and how public power innovation can support reliability, sustainability, and local economic development.
Brad Viator and Gary Meltz of Power for Tomorrow joined the podcast to discuss electric deregulation, market structure, and how policy decisions impact customer costs.
Scott Smith and John Jicha of Madison Gas & Electric shared insights on energy reliability, resource planning, and the challenges utilities face as demand grows and the generation mix changes.
The Power Breakfast episode on data centers explored the growing impact of large energy users on the grid and what increasing demand means for infrastructure, planning, and electric rates.
Representative Adam Neylon discussed energy policy priorities, regulation, and the role of the legislature in shaping Wisconsin’s energy future.
Representative Supreme Moore Omokunde joined the podcast for a conversation on energy affordability, sustainability, and the importance of long-term planning for Wisconsin customers.

Taken together, these conversations tell an important story: the electric industry is changing, but the core mission remains the same — keeping power reliable, affordable, and available when customers need it.

The Year in Review episode serves as a reminder that energy policy decisions have real impacts on households, businesses, and communities. Whether the topic was grid reliability, emerging technologies, large energy users, or market structure, each conversation focused on how to best serve customers and ensure a strong energy future.

Listen to the Year in Review Episode here:

https://youtu.be/Fnc8cHRM48A?si=sjFHziuJZ08E4Out

As The Electric Wire moves into 2026, the podcast will continue these conversations with industry leaders and policymakers, exploring the challenges and opportunities ahead for the electric industry and the customers it serves.

Electric Wire, Episode 57 - Public Power Innovation: Inside Manitowoc Public Utilities’ Refuel Renewable Project

Tue, 30 Dec 2025 14:51:40 GMT

Public Power Innovation: Inside Manitowoc Public Utilities’ Refuel Renewable Project

On the latest episode of The Electric Wire podcast, a publication of the Customers First Coalition, we explore how public power innovation is helping keep electricity reliable, affordable, and sustainable in Wisconsin.

Host Kristin Gilkes is joined by Troy Adams, CEO and General Manager of Manitowoc Public Utilities, along with Tyler Vorpagel of Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin, to discuss MPU’s Refuel Renewable Project—an innovative initiative that is transitioning Boilers 8 and 9 to run on 100% Wisconsin-recognized renewable fuel pellets.

This project stands out because it addresses some of the biggest challenges facing the electric industry today: cost control, grid reliability, environmental responsibility, and local economic development.

Unlike intermittent renewable resources, the Refuel Renewable Project provides dispatchable, baseload power, meaning the utility can generate electricity when it is needed most. This helps maintain grid reliability while still moving toward renewable energy goals.

The project also creates significant local benefits. The renewable fuel pellets are made from waste wood and other landfill-diverted materials, turning waste into a valuable energy resource. This supports local jobs, reduces landfill use, and keeps energy dollars in the community.

The conversation highlights how public power utilities like Manitowoc are uniquely positioned to pursue innovative, community-focused energy solutions that balance reliability, affordability, and sustainability—all while maintaining local control and accountability.

This episode is a great example of how public power and thoughtful utility regulation can foster innovation while still protecting customers.

Listen to the Episode

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Y_FBy-wplo&t=593s

About the Guests

Troy Adams is the CEO and General Manager of Manitowoc Public Utilities, where he has led innovative efforts in renewable energy, distributed generation, and community-focused utility operations.

Tyler Vorpagel is the Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs at Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin, where he works on policy issues affecting public power utilities and their customers across the state.

Electric Wire, Episode 56 - The True Cost of Electric Deregulation with Power for Tomorrow

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 18:27:16 GMT

Explore why electricity deregulation often leads to higher bills and what it means for consumers and policymakers

Madison, WI - On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast , host Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director of the Customers First Coalition, sits down with Gary Meltz and Brad Viator of Power for Tomorrow to unpack how different models of electricity markets affect customers’ bills and the future of the grid.

Gary and Brad explain why the regulated electric utility model is designed to protect customers—keeping prices stable and ensuring long-term investment in infrastructure. They contrast this with the track record of electric deregulation, which has often promised consumer “choice” but in practice has driven up electric bills in many states.

The conversation also explores the current challenges facing the power sector: balancing reliability, affordability, and the transition to cleaner energy sources. Gary and Brad share how thoughtful regulation and oversight can help address these challenges while safeguarding consumers.

Whether you’re an energy professional, policymaker, or simply curious about why your electric bill looks the way it does, this episode offers clear insights and actionable ideas for keeping power affordable and reliable.

Listen to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube Channel, here: https://youtu.be/5JHxgS-IaAI?si=p2a1E0J9_0-cMCRR

Episode Links & References

Gary's Column: Electric Deregulation Historically Means Higher Power Bills
https://www.powerfortomorrow.org/news/real-clear-energy-electric-deregulation-historically-means-higher-power-bills
More on Brad's RTO Insider Column
https://www.powerfortomorrow.org/news/rto-insider-pjm-is-flailing-but-theres-a-solution
Power for Tomorrow
https://www.powerfortomorrow.org/
Podcast referenced in this episode: Utility Regulation Really Sucks: Shift Key with Robinson Meyer and Jesse Jenkins
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0reuOqB6EuxqnGmGHbvSEo

Electric Deregulation Historically Means Higher Power Bills

Thu, 04 Sep 2025 19:59:21 GMT

Power for Tomorrow Executive Director Gary Meltz helps explain why deregulation fails customers

Madison, WI - The Customers First Coalition is highlighting a recent column exposing the dangers of electric deregulation published at RealClearEnergy. In a compelling September 2, 2025, column, Gary Meltz, Executive Director of Power for Tomorrow , reminds us that, despite the promise of competition, electric deregulation historically has led to higher—not lower—power bills. Evidence across multiple regions and periods underscores this point:

Montana, once driven by hopes of lower costs, instead saw soaring prices after deregulation—consumers ended up paying billions more compared to remaining under traditional utility systems.
In Texas, deregulation saw residential rates spike sevenfold in the first years, with long-term costs exceeding $24 billion—about $5,100 per household—compared to regulated markets.
The Maryland experience under the 1999 deregulation law led to a staggering 72% boost in customer rates amid fuel price surges.
And of course, California’s 2000–2001 energy crisis—rooted in flawed deregulation design—triggered rolling blackouts, bankrupt utilities, and devastating rate hikes, driven by market manipulation.

These patterns aren’t isolated—deregulated states repeatedly register higher electricity costs compared to their regulated peers. The Customers First Coalition has existed for over three decades to help educate Wisconsin lawmakers about the dangers of deregulation, and we applaud the national efforts of Power for Tomorrow to help promote sensible utility regulation.

Read Meltz's column at RealClearEnergy , here: https://www.realclearenergy.org/articles/2025/09/02/electric_deregulation_historically_means_higher_power_bills_1132378.html

Electric Wire, Episode 55 - Power Check: Insights on Wisconsin’s Energy Reliability

Fri, 01 Aug 2025 15:49:31 GMT

What does the data really say about the reliability of Wisconsin’s electric grid amid rising demand and evolving energy needs?

Madison, WI - The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast features a discussion with John Jicha and Scott Smith of Madison Gas and Electric to break down the facts about electric reliability in Wisconsin, clear up misconceptions about how electric utilities are regulated, and explore what’s ahead for the state’s energy future.

Find the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts, such as Apple Podcasts or Spotify , or listen on our YouTube Channel, here: https://youtu.be/TFsjXwnfWa4

The Electric Wire podcast has been bringing energy and utility news to Wisconsin energy stakeholders since 2020.

Press Release: CFC Applauds Major Win for Utility Customers Included in State Budget Deal

kristin@customersfirst.org (Kristin Gilkes) — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 19:50:09 GMT

The move to completely eliminate the sales tax on electricity and natural gas usage will mean direct savings for utility customers at a critical time

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 1, 2025

Customers First Coalition Applauds Major Win for Utility Customers Included in State Budget Deal

Madison, WI – The Customers First Coalition is celebrating a significant victory for utility customers, as the bipartisan state budget deal announced today includes a key provision to eliminate the sales tax on electricity and natural gas usage from May through October. This change will result an estimated $178 million in direct savings for Wisconsin customers over the next biennium.

Currently, utility sales for the months of November through April are exempt from sales tax. By expanding this exemption to the full calendar year, the bipartisan budget deal will eliminate the sales tax burden on all residential electricity and natural gas usage.

“The move to completely eliminate the sales tax on electricity and natural gas usage will mean direct savings for utility customers at a critical time,” said Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director of the Customers First Coalition. “We appreciate this bipartisan effort by Governor Evers working with the legislature to make utility bills more affordable for families and businesses across Wisconsin.”

The Customers First Coalition, which works to protect Wisconsin’s tradition of affordable, reliable electricity, applauds lawmakers for putting customers first and delivering meaningful relief through the state budget. Find more about Customers First at customersfirst.org .

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Electric Wire, Episode 54 - 2025 Power Breakfast

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 14:30:23 GMT

Experts discuss data centers and energy use at the 2025 Power Breakfast

Madison, WI - In May, industry experts gathered for CFC's annual Power Breakfast to discuss the issues surrounding data centers, load growth, and energy use.

WisconsinEye covered the event and the Electric Wire podcast is sharing WisconsinEye audio. If you value the work WisconsinEye does covering important policy discussions, please visit their web site and consider supporting however you can: https://wiseye.org/ .

To view archived footage of CFC Power Breakfast events, please create a free account at the WisconsinEye web site, and search for Customers First. To view the 2025 Power Breakfast event recording at the WisconsinEye web site, please use the following link: https://wiseye.org/2025/05/06/customers-first-coalition-2025-power-breakfast/

To listen to the Electric Wire podcast, please find the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or visit our YouTube Channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8asK_CaikE .

Electric Wire, Episode 53 - Staying Connected with Rep. Adam Neylon

Mon, 02 Jun 2025 19:35:47 GMT

A discussion with Rep. Adam Neylon (R-Pewaukee) about his legislative guiding principles, his personal perspective on nuclear power, and bipartisan energy solutions.

Madison, WI - Wisconsin State Representative Adam Neylon (R-Pewaukee) joined the Electric Wire podcast to discuss legislative guiding principles, his personal perspective on nuclear power, load growth, and bipartisan energy solutions.

To listen to the episode, search for the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or visit CFC's YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kM1ckVGi-xc

The Electric Wire podcast has been bringing energy and utility news to Wisconsin energy stakeholders since 2020.

CFC Supports LIHEAP Funding and Staff to Help Low Income Customers

Wed, 09 Apr 2025 19:11:38 GMT

Letter to Wisconsin's Congressional Delegation Details CFC Concerns with Cuts to LIHEAP Staff

Madison, WI - The Customers First Coalition wrote to Wisconsin's Congressional Delegation today to show support for staff and funding for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a federal program providing grants to states to help low-income families pay their heating and cooling bills.

CFC is concerned that recent staffing cuts at DHS could result in LIHEAP funding reductions and delays. We believe it is imperative that Congress act to ensure there are staff in place to ensure LIHEAP is staffed and fully funded to continue timely assistance to help low-income customers pay their bills as well as help assure that energy providers can continue operations and provide affordable, reliable power to all customers.

CFC is asking Congress to help ensure staff and funding for the LIHEAP program as an important step towards ensuring electric customers can keep up with their bills and energy providers can continue to provide affordable and reliable power.

Electric Wire, Episode 52 - Good Energy and the Power of the People with Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 19:20:55 GMT

A discussion about energy policy and priorities with Rep. Supreme Moore Omokunde, member of the Wisconsin Assembly Energy & Utilities Committee

Madison, WI - Wisconsin State Representative Supreme Moore Omokunde (D-Milwaukee) joined the Electric Wire podcast to discuss recent legislative initiatives, energy policy, and creating a bridge between urban and rural Wisconsin residents with climate initiatives. He also discussed a recent, bipartisan effort to recognize nuclear power as a way to help achieve clean energy goals.

To listen to the episode, search for the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or visit CFC's YouTube channel, here: https://youtu.be/TGw26316ayg

The Electric Wire podcast has been bringing energy and utility news to Wisconsin energy stakeholders since 2020.

Power Breakfast 2025: Data Centers and Energy Use

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 19:43:28 GMT

Register Now for the Power Breakfast on May 6!

Madison, WI - The Customers First Coalition has announced its annual Power Breakfast event will be held on May 6, 2025, at the Premier Park Hotel in Madison, WI. The event will cover the expansion of data centers across the nation and the growing energy demand to power them.

Networking and breakfast on the morning of the event will begin at 8:15 am. The program will begin at 8:30 am.

Registration for the event can be found at the following link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cfc-power-breakfast-2025-data-centers-and-energy-use-tickets-1246469396519

We hope to see you at the Power Breakfast!

Electric Wire, Episode 51 - 2024 Year-in-Review Roundtable + Predictions for 2025

Mon, 30 Dec 2024 19:01:52 GMT

Our Year-in-Review Crew is Back to Reflect on 2024 and Make Predictions for the Energy Industry Landscape in 2025

Madison, WI - The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast revisits some of the top energy stories of 2024 and looks ahead to what's coming in 2025.

Our special roundtable panel includes:

Kara Pennoyer, Chief of Staff to Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Chairperson Summer Strand;
Matthew Spencer, Director of Government Relations, Madison Gas and Electric;
Luke Fuller, Government Relations Manager, Dairyland Power Cooperative; and,
Jessica Niekrasz, Vice President of Operations, BIOFerm.

Listen to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, such as Apple or Spotify , or watch on our YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/@customersfirst/podcasts

Press Release: Wisconsin’s Electric Utilities are Sensibly Regulated

Fri, 22 Nov 2024 22:14:51 GMT

Recent call to deregulate in favor of a retail choice model is short-sighted

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Wisconsin’s Electric Utilities are Sensibly Regulated

Madison, WI – The Customers First Coalition is pushing back on a statement from the Libertarian Party of Wisconsin which calls for a free market, or retail choice, system of unregulated energy providers in Wisconsin.

“Any calls for deregulating Wisconsin’s electric utilities for a system that favors retail choice are short-sighted and misinformed, and won’t lead to an actual free market,” according to Customers First Coalition Executive Director Kristin Gilkes. “Retail choice, especially in a state like Texas, is not designed to protect residential electric customers. The handful of states that have gone the route of deregulating utilities have seen vulnerable customers targeted by scams, collective overpayments by choice customers to the tune of billions of dollars, and broken electric systems with less reliability due to lack of oversight, planning, and investment.”

In a statement issued today, the Libertarian Party of Wisconsin touted Texas-style deregulation, where shopping for an energy provider is mandatory for customers, and has been a disaster for many, including the ones who received bills for tens of thousands of dollars in the aftermath of the 2021 Texas power system failure that left millions without power during oppressive winter weather.

“Wisconsin electric customers do not want an unreliable and volatile energy system like the one in Texas—our state has been wise to maintain a regulated system that protects customers,” said Gilkes. “The electric blackout in Texas in 2021 was a widespread failure of their electric system and deregulated model. The thought of upending Wisconsin’s stable regulatory model in favor of the mess that is still being cleaned up in Texas is unconscionable.”

Of the thirteen states that deregulated their electric utilities when there was a nation-wide push more than two decades ago, many are now reversing course. Several states are considering and passing measures to re-regulate utilities because retail choice has proven to be a disaster for customers when actually implemented.

Wisconsin’s electric utilities are regulated monopolies, with sensible regulation standing in the place of competition in an industry where a natural free market does not exist. Opening up Wisconsin to retail choice would mean unchecked rates for unregulated energy providers, leading to volatile prices for customers and, over time, a less reliable power system, as incentives for utilities to invest in system maintenance and upgrades would be diminished.

When utilities in Wisconsin apply for rate adjustments, they undergo an extensive process of rate review by accountants, auditors, attorneys, engineers, and rate analysts in an open, public process that includes intervenors that raise issues on behalf of the public. Regulators reviewing rate requests are doing so using publicly-available information that helps assure Wisconsin customers have access to long-term, just and reasonable, cost-based rates and reliable power.

“While CFC supports common-sense measures to keep rates reasonable for customers, such as energy efficiency measures and affordable renewable energy, upending Wisconsin’s utility regulatory model is not one of them,” said Gilkes.

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Additional reading about the (avoidable) disaster of a retail choice energy system:

Two years later, the 2021 blackout still shapes what it means to live in Texas
https://www.kut.org/energy-environment/2023-02-17/two-years-later-the-2021-blackout-still-shapes-what-it-means-to-live-in-texas

Electric Crisis in Texas: Could it Happen Here?
https://wppienergy.org/electric-crisis-in-texas-could-it-happen-here/

Electric Wire, Episode 11: Regulation, Reliability…and Texas
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KLgkLcI_mp0&list=PLvE0yM8OE9_MhC5xhJ_rkAmG5Fc3MZQfr&index=40

Parris Glendening: Time to hold consumer retail energy suppliers accountable
https://marylandmatters.org/2024/02/14/parris-glendening-time-to-hold-consumer-retail-energy-suppliers-accountable/

Advocates, Legislators Are Confident Maryland Law to Rectify Retail Energy Market Will Survive Industry’s Legal Challenge
https://insideclimatenews.org/news/21102024/maryland-retail-energy-market-industry-legal-challenge/

State: Illinois electric customers overpaid by $431 million with alternative suppliers
https://www.citizensutilityboard.org/blog/2021/08/09/state-illinois-electric-customers-overpaid-by-431-million-with-alternative-suppliers/

These energy suppliers say they can save you money. Regulators say it’s a scam
https://www.wbur.org/news/2024/03/28/massachusetts-third-party-energy-competitive-suppliers-electricity-regulators

Customers First is a coalition to preserve Wisconsin’s affordable and reliable electricity. Learn more at www.customersfirst.org.

Electric Wire, Episode 50 - The 2024 Power Breakfast

Mon, 30 Sep 2024 16:18:12 GMT

This special episode of the Electric Wire features speakers from this year's Power Breakfast, including Commissioner Marcus Hawkins, Laurel Peltier, Brent Ridge, Representative Lisa Subeck, and more

In August, we celebrated some of our top episodes of the Electric Wire podcast in person by inviting previous podcast guests to Madison to speak at our annual Power Breakfast.

Thanks to WisconsinEye, we are able to bring Power Breakfast audio and video to our listeners. Please visit wiseye.org to check out more live and archived footage from WisconsinEye and consider making a donation to this free service!

This podcast episode follows the Power Breakfast agenda for speaker order:

- Opening Remarks by Commissioner Marcus Hawkins, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

- Laurel Peltier, Journalist and Energy Advocate

- Brent Ridge, President and CEO, Dairyland Power Cooperative

- Wisconsin's Energy Providers Panel

- Rep. Lisa Subek, Ranking Member, Assembly Energy & Utilities Committee

Listen to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, such as Apple or Spotify , or on our YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/@customersfirst/podcasts

Electric Wire, Episode 49 - Previewing the 2024 Power Breakfast with Justin Chasco

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 19:43:48 GMT

Revisit some of your favorite clips as we prepare to celebrate the 50th episode of the Electric Wire

Madison, WI - On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, Justin Chasco of Fredrikson & Byron joins to discuss CFC's upcoming Power Breakfast event, which will celebrate the 50th episode of the Electric Wire podcast.

Listen to the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here:

https://www.youtube.com/@customersfirst/podcasts

Registration and info about the event can be found here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-power-breakfast-the-best-of-the-electric-wire-tickets-923933468877

Electric Wire, Episode 48 - Overview of Vista Sands Solar Project in Central WI with Jon Baker

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 19:24:46 GMT

Jon Baker gives an overview of the process to site one of the largest solar projects in Wisconsin

Madison, WI - Jon Baker, Project Manager of the proposed Vista Sands Solar Project in Central Wisconsin, joined the Electric Wire podcast to discuss the process, opportunities, and challenges that come with siting a large solar project.

Listen to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, such as Apple or Spotify , or watch on our YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/@customersfirst

Read Jon’s recent opinion column highlighting the project, here: https://captimes.com/opinion/guest-columns/opinion-solar-project-furthers-conservation-clean-energy-goals/article_b0e07dba-0ef5-11ef-9435-dba12b87857a.html

Register for CFC's August 15, 2024, Po wer Breakfast, here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-power-breakfast-the-best-of-the-electric-wire-tickets-923933468877

Electric Wire, Episode 47 -Powering Wisconsin with Peder Mewis and Mike Kuglitsch

Fri, 28 Jun 2024 19:14:17 GMT

All about the group advocating for more utility-scale renewable energy in Wisconsin

Madison, WI - On Episode 47 of the Electric Wire podcast, we discuss the steps Powering Wisconsin is taking to help include utility-scale renewable energy in Wisconsin’s generation portfolio and the process it takes to get more renewable energy sited here in Wisconsin.

Special guests include Peder Mewis, Clean Grid Alliance, and Mike Kuglitsch, Michael Best Strategies LLC, representing Powering Wisconsin. Matthew Spencer, Madison Gas & Electric, co-hosts.

Listen to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, such as Apple or Spotify , or watch on our YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/@customersfirst

Read Peder’s recent Op-Ed on Wisconsin’s energy policies, here: https://captimes.com/opinion/guest-columns/opinion-lawmakers-taking-right-approach-to-renewable-energy/article_668ac7f6-03ed-11ef-8533-7b7ef69acb83.html

Don't forget to register for CFC's Power Breakfast on August 15, 2024 , at the following link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-power-breakfast-the-best-of-the-electric-wire-tickets-923933468877

Electric Wire, Episode 46 - Consumer Issues, Data Centers, and Recapping the NASUCA Conference with Tom Content

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:36:48 GMT

The latest episode of the Electric Wire highlights a recent consumer issues conference held in Madison, Wisconsin

Madison, WI - The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast features Tom Content, Executive Director of the Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin, who joins host Kristin Gilkes to recap the recent NASUCA Conference in Madison, WI, and the issues discussed at the conference, such as data centers, transmission, EV buildout, innovative rate designs, and more. NASUCA is the National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates.

You can find the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here: https://youtu.be/ZKbhXj_Y6cI .

Key Moments from this Episode:

4:00 – NASUCA Conference: Discussion of Consumer Impacts from Extreme Heat + PSCW Commissioner Kristy Nieto Introductory Remarks

5:57 – Issues related to data centers

8:10 – Considerations of direct selling baseload power to data centers in other states

9:30 – Microsoft data center in WI

10:15 – cost allocation for data centers

11:06 – transmission issues discussed at conference

16:22 – EPRI Electric Vehicles Buildout Tool for Utilities

18:45 – Consumer issues on the horizon

19:50 – Increasing demand/affordability tipping point

20:50 – Bringing down costs

23:15 – Tom’s “All the Power” moment

25:12 – Appropriate levels of spending on energy efficiency

27:00 – Upcoming CFC Power Breakfast on August 15

31:20 – Upcoming CCIF report on innovative rate designs and time of use rates

August 15, 2024, Power Breakfast Registration Link:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2024-power-breakfast-the-best-of-the-electric-wire-tickets-923933468877

Check out a previous episode (Episode 34) all about NASUCA here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xnCTZf6HiJY&t=1010s

Registration is Open for Power Breakfast taking place on August 15!

Thu, 20 Jun 2024 15:22:55 GMT

Register today for a morning of networking and amazing speakers on August 15, 2024!

Madison, WI - The Customers First Coalition will host its annual Power Breakfast on Thursday, August 15, 2024, an event which will celebrate the 50th episode of CFC's Electric Wire podcast by bringing back some of the most popular podcast guests!

2024 Power Breakfast: The Best of the Electric Wire Tickets, Thu, Aug 15, 2024 at 8:15 AM | Eventbrite

Topics will include the reality of retail choice in deregulated states; utility-scale energy storage technologies; and, a panel with Wisconsin’s energy providers. Confirmed speakers include Brent Ridge, President and CEO, Dairyland Power Cooperative; Commissioner Marcus Hawkins, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin; Rep. Lisa Subeck, Ranking Member, Assembly Committee on Energy and Utilities, and, Laurel Peltier, a consumer advocate from Maryland, who has seen first-hand the perils of energy deregulation, or retail choice, for electric customers in that state.

Additional speaker announcements and a detailed agenda will be available soon!

Save the Date for CFC's 2024 Power Breakfast

Wed, 01 May 2024 16:43:38 GMT

Join us to celebrate the 50th Episode of the Electric Wire podcast!

Save the Date! The Customers First Coalition will hold its annual Power Breakfast on the morning of August 15 at the Premier Park Hotel in Madison. For the past four years, Customers First has been producing an energy-focused podcast, the Electric Wire , and this year’s Power Breakfast will feature speakers from some of the top episodes, as the Electric Wire celebrates its 50 ^th episode.

Speakers will include Laurel Peltier, a consumer advocate from Maryland, who has seen first-hand the perils of energy deregulation, or retail choice, for electric customers in that state. Other topics will include utility-scale energy storage technologies and a panel with Wisconsin’s energy providers. Registration will open in May, with information at www.customersfirst.org/events .

Electric Wire, Episode 45 - National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Funds Coming to Wisconsin

Fri, 05 Apr 2024 16:36:25 GMT

New Episode Focuses on the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Funding Heading to Wisconsin

Madison, WI - Wisconsin is taking action to access federal funding through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program which will help install EV fast charging stations along the state's major highway corridors. On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, a production of the Customers First Coalition, our special guests include Emma Heins of the Electrification Coalition and Kaleb Vander Wiele of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.

Listen to the Electric Wire where ever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube Channel, here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQXaop80KKw&t=18s

Links from Episode

Wisconsin Department of Transportation – Electrification

https://wisconsindot.gov/Pages/projec...

Interactive Map of Potential Charging Station Locations

https://experience.arcgis.com/experie...

Electrification Coalition

https://electrificationcoalition.org/

Key Moments

1:40 - Interview with Emma Heins begins

4:40 - WI legislation

8:00 - Additional aspects of legislation

11:15 - Why federal incentives for EVs?

13:00 - How will EV charging in WI change over the next year?

14:30 - Other policy actions needed on EVs?

17:40 - Emma's "All the Power" moment

19:57 - Interview with Kaleb Vander Wiele begins

25:00 - Changes in EV policies since 2017

28:10 - NEVI

30:30 - Charging Station Map (See map online: https://experience.arcgis.com/experie... )

38:22 - Where do we go from here?

46:37 - Kaleb's "All the Power" moment

Governor Evers signs EV fast-charging legislation into law

Wed, 20 Mar 2024 20:34:45 GMT

Evers signs legislation enabling electric vehicle fast-charging infrastructure buildout

Madison, WI - Legislation that will pave the way for more electric vehicle fast-charging stations along Wisconsin's major roadways has been signed into law by Governor Tony Evers. The Customers First Coalition has supported this legislation across multiple legislative sessions and we were proud to be represented when Governor Evers signed the bills into law at the Wisconsin State Capitol earlier today.

The Customers First Coalition has long believed state policies should be designed to support EV adoption and the associated benefits that can come with it, including:

Downward pressure on electric rates for all customers;
Lower fuel and maintenance costs for EV drivers, fleets, and transit systems; and,
Environmental benefits from lower emissions.

Because of their ability to open Wisconsin’s EV charging network to receiving federally-funded National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) grants, 2023 Act 121 and Act 122 will help usher in the benefits of EVs for Wisconsin electric customers.

Read more on today's action from the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel here:

https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/politics/2024/03/20/evers-signs-bills-enabling-build-out-of-ev-charging-stations/73042412007/

Electric Wire, Episode 44 - Chairperson Rebecca Valcq

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 16:34:40 GMT

Chairperson Rebecca Valcq Reflects on Her Time Leading the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Madison, WI - Chairperson Rebecca Valcq joined the Electric Wire podcast, a production of the Customers First Coalition, to reflect on her five years leading the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin as she prepares for her final day at the agency on February 2, 2024. We discuss her proudest moments, biggest challenges, memorable cases, and much more. Lori Sakk, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Public Utility Institute, joins to co-host this episode.

To listen to or watch the Electric Wire , Episode 44, "Chairperson Rebecca Valcq looks back on her time leading the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin," follow this link to CFC's YouTube Channel, or find the Electric Wire podcast wherever you listen to podcasts.

Chairperson Valcq discusses the following during the conversation:

Looking back at expectations for the job (7:00)
Proudest moments (9:22)
Biggest challenges (12:16)
Major cases (18:38)
Generic dockets (20:25)
Memorable episodes of the Electric Wire podcast (25:15)
Memorable WPUI programs (28:00)
Sharing wisdom from experience (31:20)
Legacy (34:44)
All the Power moment (37:28)
What’s ahead (40:10)

Links from Episode:

Wisconsin Public Utility Institute (WPUI):

https://wpui.wisc.edu/

Upcoming Educational Programs from WPUI:

https://wpui.wisc.edu/programs/

Electric Wire, Episode 3 (Apple)

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/energy-innovation-with-wisconsin-energy-leaders/id1497322756?i=1000468353689

Electric Wire, Episode 3 (Spotify)

https://open.spotify.com/episode/6gpyBr1DZAFbYOq2rIc6Ja

Live Lines: Energy Trends for 2024

Fri, 19 Jan 2024 16:14:34 GMT

A closer look at energy trends impacting Wisconsin utilities and their customers in the year ahead

Madison, WI - What trends will industry watchers be following in 2024? The Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin's Live Lines newsletter discusses the matter in detail with CFC Executive Director Kristin Gilkes in the January 2024 issue.

Gilkes said the transition to cleaner energy sources will continue, aided by new developments in large-scale energy storage technologies. Electric sales could continue to increase with a continued transition to electric vehicles and other electrification measures, and an increased emphasis on energy affordability will likely continue to be a focus of discussions.

Read more in the January 2024 issue of the Live Lines newsletter here:

https://www.meuw.org/Files/Live%20Lines/2024%20January%20Live%20Lines.pdf

Electric Wire, Episode 43 - 2023 Year-in-Review Roundtable and Highlight Clips

Thu, 28 Dec 2023 21:22:30 GMT

2023 Year-in-Review Roundtable and Highlight Clips

Our year-in-review roundtable is back with both new and familiar faces to help us recap this year in Wisconsin energy news. We discuss the top stories, ideas, and developments in 2023, as well as making some predictions for the year ahead.

Our special guests include:

· Kara Pennoyer, Chief of Staff to Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Chairperson Rebecca Valcq

· Matthew Spencer, Director of Government Relations, Madison Gas and Electric

· Carrie Templeton, Regulatory Relations and Policy Manager, Alliant Energy

· Andy Bochman, Senior Grid Strategist, Idaho National Laboratory

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts, such as Apple or Spotify , or watch this episode on our YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxXgZXXNZE8 .

Key Moments

03:25 - Top Energy Stories of the Year

07:10 – Top Sustainable Energy Developments of the Year

12:50 – Most Promising Energy Idea of the Year

18:30 – “Shock” of the Year

25:00 – Favorite Episode of the Electric Wire This Year

32:45 – Predictions (Reflecting Back & Looking Forward)

42:30 – “All the Power” Moments

2023 Reflection Clips

49:15 –Episode 37: Brent Ridge, CEO of Dairyland Power Cooperative, discusses hydropower using mine storage

52:05 –Episode 38: Cindy Smith, Chief Legal Counsel at Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, discusses public participation and process at the PSCW

55:40 –Episode 33: Sen. Julian Bradley discusses an “all of the above” approach to energy during his “All the Power” moment

Links to Previous, Highlighted Episodes

Electric Wire, Episode 40: Tours at MGE EV Fast Charging Hub and O’Brien Solar Fields

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tours-at-mge-ev-fast-charging-hub-and-obrien-solar-fields/id1497322756?i=1000630813364

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JVK0103DDaE&t=1114s

Electric Wire, Episode 41 - MEUW Celebrates with Public Power on Parade at the State Capitol

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/meuw-celebrates-with-public-power-on-parade-at-the/id1497322756?i=1000633242021

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIL9Qi_Z4FY

Electric Wire, Episode 38 - Cindy Smith discusses participation and process at the PSCW

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cindy-smith-discusses-public-participation-and/id1497322756?i=1000622954015

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YS6PQZLEpOQ

Electric Wire, Ep. 39 - Marcus Hawkins discusses his role leading the Organization of MISO States

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marcus-hawkins-discusses-his-role-leading-the/id1497322756?i=1000626358105

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rqYCUp7_dTM&t=468s

Electric Wire, Episode 27 - The Reality of Retail Choice with Laurel Peltier

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-reality-of-retail-choice-with-laurel-peltier/id1497322756?i=1000578685568

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6fD7EMD_BY&t=164s

Electric Wire, Episode 25 - Nuclear Power, Reliability & Global Weirding

Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/nuclear-power-reliability-global-weirding-with-andy/id1497322756?i=1000567542737

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TpcEMypyy8o&t=32s

For more detailed analysis of PSCW rate proceedings this year, you can check out content from our friends at the Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NLwz3hEZvK8

Electric Wire, Episode 42 - All About Focus on Energy, Wisconsin's Statewide Energy Efficiency Program

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 15:45:00 GMT

Our guests on this episode discuss more about the program, why it was created, what’s in it for customers, costs and benefits, the program’s four-year planning process, and more.

Madison, WI - Wisconsin’s state-wide energy efficiency program, Focus on Energy, helps electric customers achieve cost-savings through energy conservation measures. On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, we discuss more about the program, why it was created, what’s in it for customers, costs and benefits, the program’s four-year planning process, and more. We are joined by Lisa Stefanik, Managing Director, Focus on Energy, and Jolene Sheil, Portfolio Manager for Focus on Energy, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. Matthew Spencer, Director of Government Relations, Madison Gas and Electric, and Board Member for the Statewide Energy Efficiency and Renewable Administration (SEERA), co-hosts.

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts, such as on Apple or Spotify , or watch on our YouTube Channel, here: https://youtu.be/uzAHqzeVmRI

Key Moments from this Episode

4:43 – What is the Focus on Energy program?

5:50 – When, how, and why was Focus on Energy created?

7:15 – More on the roles of the program’s administrator, APTIM; the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin; and, the Statewide Energy Efficiency and Renewable Administration

9:55 – How is Focus on Energy funded and what is the relationship between the state’s electric utilities and Focus on Energy?

14:35 – What does Focus on Energy do for Wisconsin’s electric customers?

17:30 – How does the program reach out to customers about available offerings?

18:48 – How are decisions made about what energy efficiency programs to offer?

22:50 – What are the costs and benefits of the program?

23:40 – More on the benefits of the program (bill savings, grid improvements, environmental, and economic benefits)

29:10 – What are the top performing programs? (Industrial projects; discussion of LED lightbulbs)

39:00 – Related federal funding from the Inflation Reduction Act

43:50 – The Quadrennial Planning Process

48:30 – Renewable energy funding

50:29 – Issues that arose during COVID-19 pandemic

Links from Episode

Focus on Energy
https://focusonenergy.com/

Focus on Energy Success Stories
https://focusonenergy.com/success-stories-1

Online Home Assessment Tool Walkthrough
https://focusonenergy.com/home-assessment

Focus on Energy Annual Reports
https://focusonenergy.com/evaluation-reports/categories/annual-reports

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Home.aspx

APTIM (Focus on Energy Program Administrator)
https://www.aptim.com/

Electric Wire, Episode 41 -MEUW Celebrates with Public Power on Parade at the State Capitol

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 19:04:58 GMT

Join as we celebrate 95 years of the Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin

Madison, WI - They’re tooting their own horn! As the Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin, or MEUW, celebrated its 95 ^th birthday on October 18, 2023, the organization brought municipal utility leaders from across the state to the State Capitol to share the benefits of public power in their communities.

The day at the Capitol culminated with a parade around the Capitol Square, with 81 utility bucket trucks showing their public power pride.

The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast features several short interviews conducted on-site during MEUW’s day at the Capitol, a quick look at some of the communities represented in the public power bucket truck parade, and the episode concludes with a sit-down interview with Richard Heinemann, a long-time energy attorney at Boardman Clark representing municipal utilities.

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts, such as Apple or Spotify , or watch the latest episodes on our YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/@customersfirst .

Episode 41 Special Guests

· Tim Heinrich, President and CEO, Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin

· Jill Weiss, Utilities Director, Stoughton Utilities

· George Morrissey, Director of Public Works, Cuba City

· Richard Heinemann, Attorney, Boardman & Clark LLP

Links from Episode 41

October 2023 Issue of Live Lines Newsletter (MEUW Celebrates 95 ^th Anniversary)
https://www.meuw.org//Files/Live%20Lines/2023%20October%20Live%20Lines.pdf

Map of Municipal Electric Utilities in Wisconsin
https://www.meuw.org/map

Electric Wire, Episode 29 - Rooted in Community: Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00s1H5MNYN0&t=592s

Key Moments

1:35 – Interview with Tim Heinrich (MEUW) begins

6:19 – Interview with Jill Weiss (Stoughton Utilities) begins

9:00 – Public Power on Parade at the Capitol (about 3 mins 30 seconds)

12:48 - Interview with George Morrissey (Cuba City) begins

15:30 – Interview with Richard Heinemann (Boardman Clark) begins

19:00 – Founding of municipal utilities/service territories

23:30 – Regulatory issues specific to municipal utilities

30:00 – “Pancaking”(or, stacking) of transmission rates

32:36 – Municipal utility regulation at the local level

36:15 – What is a joint action agency?

41:26 – How are municipal utilities funded?

43:25 – Is it possible to become a public power community today?

48:58 – Richard’s “All the Power” answer

Watch Episode 41 at our YouTube Channel , here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VIL9Qi_Z4FY

Electric Wire, Episode 40 - Tours at MGE EV Fast Charging Hub and O’Brien Solar Fields

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 19:03:10 GMT

Podcast listeners can join for tours at MGE EV Fast Charging Hub and O’Brien Solar Fields

On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, we are bringing listeners along for two recent, in-person tours hosted by CFC for our members. Our first stop was at Madison Gas and Electric’s fast-charging hub for electric vehicles in downtown Madison, Wisconsin. The fast-charging hub features sixteen fast-charging stalls, including eight Tesla Superchargers.

Our next tour stop was at Madison Gas and Electric’s O’Brien Solar Fields just south of Madison in Fitchburg, Wisconsin. The 22-MW O'Brien Solar Fields delivers locally-generated solar energy to large energy users.

Watch and listen to the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here: https://youtu.be/JVK0103DDaE?si=6ABoQlmdb6oyzy1f

The episode features subject matter experts from Madison Gas & Electric guiding our tours, including:

• Erinn Monroe-Nye – Energy Services and Policy Manager

• John Armstrong – Renewable Engineering Manager

• Mark Lydon – Senior Account Manager

• Jeanne Burns-Frank – Environmental and Sustainability Program Manager

Key Moments from the Episode Include:

2:00 – Erinn Details EV Fast Charging Hub

7:34 – Lessons learned during operation of EV Fast Charging Hub

9:20 – Question about managing cars parked at hub

10:19 – Erinn’s “All the Power” Moment (Paving the way for more fast chargers)

11:00 – O’Brien Solar Tour Begins

14:20 – Mark discusses MGE customers receiving power from project

16:28 – Project Development and Leasing with John

18:30 – Jeanne discusses vegetation mix and ideal native plants for solar sites

27:40 – Process of converting sunlight to electricity on site

29:40 – Winter considerations at solar site

31:40 – Land use and benefits to the land

32:41 – John’s “All the Power” Moment (MISO Queue)

33:44 – Mark’s “All the Power” Moment (Energy jargon)

34:55 – Jeanne’s “All the Power” Moment (Energy storage)

Find more information about the EV fast charging hub and O’Brien Solar Fields at the Madison Gas & Electric website:

EV Charging Hub:

https://www.mge.com/newsroom/news-rel...

MG&E Solar Projects:

https://www.mge.com/our-environment/g...

Electric Wire, Episode 39 - Marcus Hawkins on his role leading OMS

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 15:29:35 GMT

Our special guest Marcus Hawkins, Executive Director, Organization of MISO States (OMS), gives an overview of RTO's and energy markets.

Madison, WI - On the latest episode of CFC's Electric Wire podcast , our special guest Marcus Hawkins, Executive Director, Organization of MISO States (OMS), walks us through some of the day-to-day functions of OMS, how he keeps up with proceedings at the Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO), and his view on the benefits of Regional Transmission Organizations (RTO).

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast wherever you listen to podcasts or on our YouTube Channel, here: https://youtu.be/rqYCUp7_dTM

Links from Episode :

PSCW’s Strategic Energy Assessment (2028)

https://apps.psc.wi.gov/pages/viewdoc.htm?docid=451939

2023 MISO-OMS Resource Adequacy Survey

https://cdn.misoenergy.org/20230714%20OMS%20MISO%20Survey%20Results%20Presentation629607.pdf

Midwest Independent System Operator (MISO)

https://www.misoenergy.org/

Organization of MISO States (OMS)

https://www.misostates.org/index.php

Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

https://www.ferc.gov/

Wisconsin Public Utility Institute Events/RTO Course in April

https://wpui.wisc.edu/

Electric Wire, Episode 38 - Cindy Smith discusses public participation and process at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 15:52:28 GMT

Cindy Smith joins the Electric Wire to discuss her role at the PSCW, ways the public can participate in the PSCW’s deliberative process, and how the energy landscape has changed over the past decade.

Madison, WI - Cindy Smith has served as the Chief Legal Counsel at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin for over a decade and across three administrations. She joins CFC's Electric Wire podcast to discuss her role at the PSCW, ways the public can participate in the PSCW’s deliberative process, and how the energy landscape has changed over the past decade.

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube Channel here: https://youtu.be/YS6PQZLEpOQ .

Cindy will answer the following questions and more over the course of the episode:

· What should the public know about the process for participating in cases before the PSC? (12:19)

· What are some of the cases of interest to the public that are currently before the Commission or coming up? (27:20)

· How has the energy landscape changed since Cindy started at the Commission and how do those changes impact the work of the PSCW? (30:00)

· What are the most memorable cases that have come through the PSCW during Cindy’s time there? (36:32)

Links from Episode

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Homepage:

https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/Home.aspx

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Highlighted Cases:

https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/CommissionActions/HighlightedCases.aspx

Electric Wire, Episode 37 -Exploring the possibility of pumped hydro energy storage within abandoned mines

Fri, 30 Jun 2023 13:44:38 GMT

Mine storage is a specific form of pumped hydro energy storage that is currently being explored in a partnership between Dairyland Power Cooperative, Michigan Technological University, and Sweden-based Mine Storage.

Madison, WI - The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast includes executives from Dairyland Power Cooperative, with President and CEO Brent Ridge, and VP of Strategic Growth John Carr, both returning to the podcast to discuss a new possibility for energy storage.

Dr. Timothy Scarlett is an Associate Professor of Archaeology and Anthropology at Michigan Technological University, and he joins the conversation to explain some of the specific considerations when using mines for pumped hydro energy storage.

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast where ever you get your podcasts, such as Apple or Spotify , or watch on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/yNlmwfRRGZA

In the introductions alone, you will learn more about Dairyland’s interest in energy storage options and their plans for how it could complement other new technologies, such as small modular nuclear reactors (SMR’s).

Other highlights from the episode include:

19:00 – Dr. Scarlett answers how pumped hydro storage using mines works

25:45 – Brent Ridge and John Carr discuss how Dairyland will decide whether or not to move forward with a potential project

28:45 – Brent Ridge answers which he thinks we will see first: mine storage for pumped hydro projects or new SMR’s

29:45 – each of the guests discuss the challenges with implementing pumped hydro storage

32:00 – Dr. Scarlett discusses a case study demonstrating the capacity for mine storage projects

45:30 – Each of the guests discuss what they would do if they had “All the Power” in the industry

Learn more about the recent announcement of the partnership between Dairyland Power Cooperative, Michigan Tech University, and Mine Storage at the following links:

Dairyland Power Cooperative Press Release:
https://dairylandpower.com/dairyland-exploring-pumped-hydro-energy-storage

Michigan Technological University web site:
https://www.mtu.edu/

MTU 2023 Research Magazine story about the idea of PUSH/MineStorage:

https://www.mtu.edu/magazine/2023/stories/mines-new-energy/

Mine Storage web site:
https://www.minestorage.com/

Mine Storage concept graphic:
https://www.minestorage.com/energy-solution/#mine-storage-concept

Wisconsin Public Radio:
https://www.wpr.org/wisconsin-dairyland-energy-utility-converting-abandoned-mines-hydroelectric-generators

Note: Dairyland Power Cooperative is a Founding Member of the Customers First Coalition

Electric Wire, Episode 36 - Considerations When Installing Solar Power at Your Home or Business

Wed, 31 May 2023 13:52:12 GMT

Addressing some consumer issues associated with residential and commercial solar installations.

Madison, WI - The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast examines some consumer issues associated with residential and commercial solar installations. Potential solar customers have many good options for reputable installers to work with, and by doing due diligence and planning, customers can feel confident they are making a sound investment.

Steve Freese, President and CEO, Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, co-hosts this episode along with Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director, Customers First Coalition.

Special guests include:

• Michael Domke, Director, Bureau of Consumer Protection; Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection

• Leah Samson, Residential Energy Engineer; Madison Gas & Electric

Listen to the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/g-FRPsCxc7E

Mike and Leah answer the following questions and more during this episode:

• What’s driving customers towards installing their own solar? ( 16:15 )

• Are there particular issues with door-to-door solar sales? ( 18:00 )

• What recourse do customers have if there is a problem with their solar installation? ( 29:00 )

• Where should customers considering solar start? ( 34:00 )

Links from episode

Wisconsin Electric Cooperative News, Steve Freese Column: Contact Your Cooperative Before Making the Call on Solar

https://wecnmagazine.com/article/cont...

DATCP Consumer Complaint Hotline: 1-800-422-7128

DATCP Solar Buying Tips:

https://datcp.wi.gov/Documents/SolarP...

DATCP Bureau of Consumer Protection:

consumerprotection.wi.gov

Energy.gov Homeowners Guide to Going Solar

https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/hom...

2023 Power Breakfast Recap, Including Links to Electric Wire Podcast Episode 35, Parts 1 & 2

Thu, 20 Apr 2023 14:08:11 GMT

The Role of Nuclear Power in Wisconsin's Energy Mix

Madison, WI - We are bringing you event audio and press coverage from CFC's Power Breakfast in Madison on April 13, 2023, titled "The Role of Nuclear Power in Wisconsin's Energy Mix."

Two episodes of CFC's podcast, the Electric Wire , recap the event using audio from WisconsinEye.

"2023 Power Breakfast, Part 1," covers the first half of the event, featuring remarks from:

- Senator Melissa Agard, Minority Leader, Wisconsin State Senate

- Representative Kevin Petersen, Speaker Pro Tempore, Wisconsin State Assembly

- Cheryl Moss Herman, Senior Advisor, Department of Energy, Office of Nuclear Energy

- Christine Csizmadia, Senior Director of State Outreach, Nuclear Energy Institute

Listen to Part 1 of the Power Breakfast by searching for the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or listen on our YouTube channel, here: https://youtu.be/IJH_juMs2VI

"2023 Power Breakfast, Part 2," covers the second half of the event, featuring remarks from:

Panel Moderator: Ellen Nowak, Former Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Panelists

-Tom Content, Executive Director, Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin

-Paul Wilson, Chair, UW-Madison Dept. of Engineering Physics

-Emily Pritzkow, Executive Director, Wisconsin Building Trades Council

-Jeremy Browning, Vice President, Generation and Power Supply, Dairyland Power Cooperative

Listen to Part 2 of the Power Breakfast by searching for the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or listen on our YouTube channel, here: https://youtu.be/WcPhjmQioGY

WisconsinEye provided full event coverage, and full video of the event can be found by searching for the Customers First Coalition at ⁠ wiseye.org⁠ - you will simply need a free account to watch the video. WisconsinEye subscribers can download audio and video from all events WisconsinEye covers and we encourage you to support WisconsinEye by becoming a subscriber!

More event coverage can be found at the following links:

WisconsinEye:

⁠ https://wiseye.org/2023/04/13/customers-first-coalition-the-nuclear-option-new-technologies-new-opportunities-for-wisconsin/

Wisconsin Public Radio:

⁠ https://www.wpr.org/nuclear-key-key-cutting-carbon-emissions-combat-climate-change

WUWM:

⁠ https://www.wuwm.com/2023-04-14/there-seems-to-be-enthusiasm-for-more-nuclear-power-in-wisconsin-but-what-about-the-cost-and-waste

WisBusiness:

https://www.wisbusiness.com/2023/uw-madison-expert-says-nuclear-tech-at-pivot-point/

Thanks to all who attended and helped to make the event a success!

Electric Wire, Episode 34 - Consumer Advocates at Work for Customers

Fri, 31 Mar 2023 22:07:22 GMT

David Springe and Tom Content discuss the work of consumer advocates on behalf of electric customers.

Consumer advocates are statutorily-designated organizations that represent the interests of customers before public utility commissions. David Springe, Executive Director, National Association of State Utility Consumer Advocates, and Tom Content, Executive Director, Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin, join the Electric Wire to discuss more about the role and function of consumer advocate organizations, some of the challenges they face, and ways to keep energy affordable.

Listen to the episode by searching for the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or listen and watch on our YouTube channel here: Consumer Advocates at Work for Customers - YouTube

Links from Episode:

Home - NASUCA

https://www.nasuca.org/

Citizens Utility Board – Your Independent Consumer Voice (cubwi.org)

https://cubwi.org/

CUB Tracks Podcast:

https://cubwi.org/podcast/

***

CFC is hosting a Power Breakfast focused on the role nuclear power plays in Wisconsin’s energy generation mix on Thursday, April 13, at the Premier Park Hotel in Madison, Wisconsin. One of this episode’s guests, Tom Content, will sit on an industry panel discussing costs and benefits of new nuclear power.

We’d love to see our Electric Wire listeners at the Power Breakfast! You can register for the Power Breakfast at our EventBrite page, here:

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/power-breakfast-the-role-of-nuclear-power-in-wis-electric-generation-mix-tickets-574574225977

We will have a special table reserved for Electric Wire listeners!

Special thanks to our event sponsors! “Energy Density” Sponsors include Fredrickson law firm and the Nuclear Energy Institute. “All the Power” sponsors include NuScale Power, Wisconsin Counties Association, and Stafford Rosenbaum LLP.

CFC Power Breakfast 2023

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 22:49:03 GMT

Exploring The Role of Nuclear Power in Wisconsin's Energy Generation Mix on April 13, 2023

CFC POWER BREAKFAST

Best Western Premier Park Hotel, Hall of Wisconsin
22 S Carroll St, Madison, WI 53703
Thursday, April 13, 2023 - 8:30 am – 11:30 am

The Role of Nuclear Power in Wisconsin’s Energy Generation Mix

Is nuclear power good for Wisconsin electric customers? Where does it fit into Wisconsin’s current and future energy generation mix? Are state policy changes needed in light of new technologies such as small modular reactors and energy fusion breakthroughs? We will answer questions about nuclear energy policy at the intersection of affordability, reliability, safety, and sustainability.

Agenda

8:15 am >> Registration and Check In

8:45 am >> Welcome and Introductions

8:55 am >> Opening Remarks – Legislative Perspectives

Senator Melissa Agard, Minority Leader, Wisconsin State Senate

Representative Kevin Petersen, Speaker Pro Tempore, Wisconsin State Assembly

9:15 am >> Federal Perspective

Cheryl Moss Herman, Senior Advisor, Department of Energy
What federal policies are impacting nuclear energy deployment and costs?

9:45 am >> State Policy Perspective

Christine Csizmadia, Senior Director of State Outreach, Nuclear Energy Institute
How are states across the nation approaching policy in light of new nuclear technologies?

10:15-10:30 am >> Networking Break

10:30 am >> Industry Perspectives Roundtable Discussion
Exploring the costs and benefits of new nuclear power for Wisconsin.

Moderator: Ellen Nowak, Former Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Panelists
Paul Wilson, Chair, UW-Madison Dept. of Engineering Physics
Jeremy Browning, Vice President, Generation and Power Supply, Dairyland Power Cooperative
Emily Pritzkow, Executive Director, Wisconsin Building Trades Council
Tom Content, Executive Director, Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin

11:20 am >> Closing Remarks

Electric Wire, Episode 33

Tue, 28 Feb 2023 18:51:26 GMT

Commissioner Ellen Nowak Reflects on 11 years at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Commissioner Ellen Nowak joined the Electric Wire podcast to reflect back on her 11 years at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, as her term comes to a close on March 1, 2023. Nowak joined episode co-hosts Sen. Julian Bradley (R-Franklin), Chair of Wisconsin's Senate Committee on Utilities and Technology, and CFC Executive Director Kristin Gilkes to recall memories from the past decade at the PSCW, including her work on issues such as modeling and educating about the impacts of the proposed Clean Power Plan, Economic Development Rates, overseeing the Focus on Energy program, cyber security issues, NARUC leadership, and much more.

Interview begins just before the 5:00 mark.

Listen to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts or on our YouTube channel, here:

https://youtu.be/KpR87iTjoSQ

Links mentioned in the episode:

NARUC Resolution:

https://pubs.naruc.org/pub/64709C9B-1866-DAAC-99FB-CE1E322EBACF?_gl=1*qvn4o7*_ga*MTI3NTY0MjgwMS4xNjc3MTg5MjUw*_ga_QLH1N3Q1NF*MTY3NzE4OTI1MC4xLjEuMTY3NzE4OTI1My4wLjAuMA

Electric Wire podcast, Episode 9 – Utility Regulation and Protecting Customers (with Commissioner Ellen Nowak)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5szygleajsI&t=618s

Energy Items in Governor's Proposed Budget

Sat, 18 Feb 2023 21:57:09 GMT

A closer look at the 2023-25 Executive Budget

Below you'll find both a summary of the Wisconsin State Budget process and a list of energy provisions in the 2023-25 Executive Budget. Please note this blog post is for informational purposes only, may be subjective in nature, and may not be an exhaustive list. Feel free to contact us with any edits or omissions. Please refer to the Wisconsin Department of Administration web site or the Legislative Fiscal Bureau web site for official Wisconsin budget documents and summaries.

Wisconsin’s Budget Process

On February 15, 2023, Governor Tony Evers released his 2023-25 Executive Budget proposal to state lawmakers. Over the next several months, the legislature’s Joint Committee on Finance will hold public hearings on the proposed budget and will make changes to the document during Executive Sessions held in late Spring. By June, the Wisconsin State Assembly and State Senate will likely take up the revised version of the budget and vote on it in both houses.

After passage in both legislative houses, the budget will be sent back to the governor’s desk, where Governor Evers can make more changes by issuing partial vetoes before signing the budget into law or issue a full veto and start the process over again.

Wisconsin state statutes require the budget to be signed into law by July 1 of odd-numbered calendar years, but if the budget is not signed into law by that time, Wisconsin government functions will not stop; instead, operations would continue at current funding levels until a new budget is signed into law.

The Customers First Coalition exists to help preserve Wisconsin’s affordable and reliable energy. For this reason, our coalition takes interest in changes to Wisconsin law that may impact electric customers. Below, we have compiled a list of items relating to energy issues from the Governor’s proposed budget that may be of interest.

To compile this list, we referred to a document prepared by the Governor’s Administration called the “ Budget in Brief ,” which is a summary of proposed budget provisions, instead of the actual proposed statutory language. A list of all documents associated with the 2023-25 Executive Budget, including the full text of the budget bill, can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Administration web site, here .

2023-25 Executive Budget Items Relating to Energy Issues

Over the past several years, the Governor and his Administration have been discussing issues relating to energy use and climate change. Many budget proposals relating to energy issues have been included in the budget as a follow-up to these discussions.

Governor’s Proposed Budget Initiatives from the Task Force on Climate Change (See additional explanation in the Budget in Brief , Page 129)

Establishing in statute the Office of Environmental Justice within the Department of Administration created by the Governor via Executive Order #161. This office is tasked with collaborating across state agencies and will engage with environmental justice advocates, communities of color, Tribal Nations, and low-income communities to design climate policies that reduce emissions and pollutants and address the cumulative and deadly impact of their concentration within those communities;
Funding and executing state and local climate risk assessment and resilience plans and creating a chief resilience officer within the Office of Environmental Justice to oversee development and execution of these plans. According to the task force, a statewide climate risk assessment and resilience plan is necessary to identify infrastructure and communities most at risk of climate change impacts;
Modifying current law to require a comprehensive plan be developed by municipalities to address climate change, require that local hazard mitigation plans include the consideration of climate change, and require communities throughout the state to include the consideration of climate change in their community health improvement assessment and plans;
Providing technical assistance grant funding to assist municipalities and Tribal Nations to develop a plan to be carbon-free by 2050. Provide $200,000 GPR over the biennium to the Office of Environmental Justice for this purpose; and
Doubling the required utility contribution for the Focus on Energy program from 1.2 percent to 2.4 percent of annual operating revenues, which would generate an additional $100 million in funding for the program. Focus on Energy provides both business and residential programs. Examples of programs include assistance for businesses applying for federal grants from the U.S. Department of Energy and providing no or low-cost energy tips, training opportunities for businesses, and financial incentives for residents seeking to improve the energy efficiency in their homes.

Governor’s Proposed Budget Initiatives from the state Clean Energy Plan (See more information in the Budget in Brief , Page 130)

Establishing in statute the Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy within the Department of Administration. The office promotes the development and use of clean and renewable energy across the state and advances innovative sustainability solutions that improve the state’s economy and environment, diversify the resources used to meet the state’s energy needs, and generate family supporting jobs by promoting the expansion of Wisconsin’s clean energy economy. The office will also oversee a new $4 million GPR renewable and clean energy research grant, during the biennium;
Creating the Clean Energy Small Business Incubator Pilot Program, administered by the Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy, which will provide business development, mentorship, and expertise to Wisconsin small businesses operating in the clean energy sector. The incubator will provide $5 million in grants to Wisconsin small businesses in the clean energy sector during the biennium;
Investing $10 million GPR over the biennium for a clean energy job training and reemployment program, $2 million GPR over the biennium under the Wisconsin Fast Forward framework for training in green jobs, and $2 million GPR in fiscal year 2023-24 for a Green Jobs Corps to encourage young adults facing barriers to employment to enter energy efficiency, conservation, and environmental sector jobs;
Modifying current law to allow utilities to offer inclusive on-bill, low-cost debt financing of clean energy projects for residential, commercial, and governmental customers;
Modifying current law to include electrification projects, including projects that transfer an energy source from a fossil fuel to electricity, as a qualifying energy efficiency project under the Focus on Energy program; and
Requiring the Public Service Commission to reevaluate the appropriate social cost of carbon every two years, in consultation with the Department of Natural Resources, and report the findings in a biennial report to the standing legislative committees. The proposal would also require the commission to consider the social cost of carbon when determining whether to issue construction certifications. The “social cost” of carbon includes the economic damage resulting from carbon dioxide emissions, including effects on human health, agricultural productivity, and property damage from severe weather events. The cost is an estimate of the economic damages that would result from emitting one additional ton of greenhouse gas in to the atmosphere.

Governor’s Proposed Budget Items Relating to Electric Vehicles

Provide two new sources of revenue to fund infrastructure improvements throughout Wisconsin and maintain a healthy transportation fund. The first is an amount calculated from the state sales tax generated by the sale of electric vehicles. The second is a transfer of a portion state sales tax on the sale of auto parts, tires, and repair services. These transfers will allocate nearly $190 million from the general fund to the transportation fund over the biennium. (See further fiscal details of this provision in the Budget in Brief , Page 121)
Establish a program to utilize federal funding to further build out Wisconsin’s electric vehicle charging infrastructure. This action will enable the state to use $17.1 million of federal funding in fiscal year 2023-24 and $17.4 million of federal funding in fiscal year 2024-25 along with potential state funds to allow greater use of electric vehicles throughout the state. (See more information on Wisconsin’s use of NEVI funds in the Budget in Brief , Page 122)
Provide $234,900 GPR in fiscal year 2023-24, $177,300 GPR in fiscal year 2024-25, and2.0 FTE GPR positions to the Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection to provide consumer protection oversight of electric vehicle charging stations.
Modify current law to explicitly exempt from the definition of a public utility, a nonutility that supplies electricity through an electric vehicle charging station and charges by duration or the kilowatt-hour. (See more information on the need for a statutory change of this nature in the Budget in Brief , Page 122)
Provide $16,000 SEG to develop and implement electric vehicle identifier plate stickers to assist first responders in emergency response.

Governor’s Proposed Budget Items Relating to Energy Projects in Local Communities

Provide $62,800 PR in fiscal year 2023-24, $82,300 PR in fiscal year 2024-25, and 1.0 FTEPR project position at the Department of Natural Resources to assist with reviewing and permitting solar energy projects.
Include utility-owned battery storage facilities in the calculation of shared revenue utility aid payments to counties and municipalities to encourage the construction of facilities necessary for renewable energy storage and incentivize local governments to host this form of utility property in their communities.
Include utility-owned electric vehicle charging infrastructure in the calculation of shared revenue utility aid payments to counties and municipalities to promote the use of renewable energy and reward local governments that host these facilities in a manner similar to other utility property.

Governor’s Proposed Budget Items Relating to the Public Service Commission and Setting Electric Rates

Expand the types of remaining costs incurred by retiring power plants that can be securitized using environmental trust bonds, which can result in cost savings for customers.
Specify that the establishment of discounted utility rates for low-income customers does not qualify as rate discrimination, if rates are approved by the Public Service Commission and published in the utility’s schedule or tariffs.
Provide $170,000 PR annually for advanced engineer modeling software and associated licensing to allow the Public Service Commission to better evaluate utility rate adjustment applications.
Modify current law to require electric utilities with owned generation to submit integrated resource plans evaluating the utility’s ability to meet long-term electricity demand and its planned approach to integrate clean energy into its energy generation portfolio.
Reserve $50,000 annually in intervenor compensation funding for entities who plan to review economic and environmental issues impacting low-income populations.

Governor’s Proposed Budget Items Relating to Energy Use in Buildings

Provide $250,000 PR in fiscal year 2023-24 and 1.0 FTE PR position to establish a stretch energy code working group to develop a stretch energy code for Wisconsin. A stretch energy code permits local governments to voluntarily enact regulations that improve energy efficiency relative to the base energy code.

Budget Process - Next Steps

The next step in the budget process is for the Legislative Fiscal Bureau to summarize the fiscal impact of the Governor’s budget provisions for the legislature and the Joint Committee on Finance before public hearings are held (typically 6-8 weeks after budget introduction) and the Joint Committee on Finance begins making changes to the document. As the Legislative Fiscal Bureau makes its own summary documents available, they will be posted on the LFB web site, here .

Electric Wire, Episode 32

Tue, 31 Jan 2023 22:34:01 GMT

Our panel breaks down some of the major energy provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA).

All about the Inflation Reduction Act!

Our panel breaks down some of the major energy provisions of the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), federal legislation signed into law by President Joe Biden on August 16, 2022, which included sweeping changes to existing renewable energy production and investment tax credits, game-changing incentives for electric vehicles and electrification, and a host of rebates and other programs to spur home and building efficiency upgrades.

Listen to the episode wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=evKb1UYjsDA&t=41s

Our Guests:

· Kathy Kuntz, Director, Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change

· Andrew Hanson, Partner, Perkins Coie LLP

· Anne Blair, Senior Director of Policy, Electrification Coalition

Links from Episode:

How You Can Take Advantage of the IRA – From the Dane County Office of Energy & Climate

https://daneclimateaction.org/what-you-can-do/federal-funding

Electric School Bus Funding in the IRA

https://stnonline.com/special-reports/inflation-reduction-act-offers-latest-school-bus-electrification-funding-opportunities/

The IRA makes school buses eligible for electrification funds through a new Clean Heavy Duty Vehicles program run by the EPA as part of the Clean Air Act.

The new program includes $1 billion for medium and heavy duty commercial electric vehicles, charging infrastructure and related workforce training. Class 6 and 7 school buses are eligible.

A Customer’s Guide to how to save money with IRA programs:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanenergy/

White House IRA Guidebook:

https://www.whitehouse.gov/cleanenergy/inflation-reduction-act-guidebook/

IRS Information on Tax Credits for EV purchases

https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/credits-for-new-electric-vehicles-purchased-in-2022-or-before

Save the Date! 2023 Power Breakfast Announcement Coming Soon!

Thu, 26 Jan 2023 02:20:38 GMT

CFC to host a discussion on nuclear power on April 13

The Customers First Coalition will host its annual Power Breakfast at the Best Western Premier Park Hotel on the morning of Thursday, April 13, 2023. The topic will be "The Nuclear Option: New Technologies, New Opportunities for Wisconsin."

The event will feature a legislative panel, industry experts, and CEO's, in addition to an exciting keynote, to be announced soon.

Registration details will be forthcoming on the CFC Events page.

State Energy Office "Grid Resilience Program" Virtual Public Hearing

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 18:31:25 GMT

Preventing outages and increasing resiliency of the electric grid

PR - Madison, WI - On Tuesday, January 24, 2023 at 10am, the State Energy Office will hold a virtual public hearing related to federal funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law (IIJA or BIL) Section 40101(d) “PREVENTING OUTAGES AND ENHANCING THE RESILIENCE OF THE ELECTRIC GRID.”

Interested organizations and Wisconsin citizens are invited to attend, and if possible, provide a public comment as to how you think federal funding can be best spent in the State of Wisconsin related to this program. Written comments may also be filed on or before Jan. 31 at https://apps.psc.wi.gov/ERF/ERF/comment/filecomment.aspx?util=9713&case=FG&num=2022 .

The State of Wisconsin Energy Office will receive approximately $5 million each year for 5 years (approximately $25 million in total) for the purpose of improving the resilience of the electric grid against disruptive events.

The State Energy Office would benefit from your perspective on which activities listed below may provide the best resilience benefits to Wisconsin.

Funding may be used to issue sub-awards to eligible entities to implement a wide range of resilience measures. Eligible entities include:

a) an electric grid operator;

b) an electricity storage operator;

c) an electricity generator;

d) a transmission owner or operator;

e) a distribution provider;

f) a fuel supplier; and

g) any other relevant entity, as determined by the Secretary (of DOE).

The objective of this Program is to improve the resilience of the electric grid against disruptive events. Per BIL section 40101(a)(1), a disruptive event is “an event in which operations of the electric grid are disrupted, preventively shut off, or cannot operate safely due to extreme weather, wildfire, or a natural disaster.”

To achieve this objective, funding provided by DOE under this Program may be used to implement a wide range of resilience measures intended to mitigate the impact of disruptive events, including:

a) weatherization technologies and equipment;
b) fire-resistant technologies and fire prevention systems;
c) monitoring and control technologies;
d) the undergrounding of electrical equipment;
e) utility pole management;
f) the relocation of power lines or the reconductoring of power lines with low-sag, advanced conductors;
g) vegetation and fuel-load management;
h) the use or construction of distributed energy resources for enhancing system adaptive capacity during disruptive events, including:

a. microgrids; and

b. battery-storage subcomponents;
i) adaptive protection technologies;
j) advanced modeling technologies;
k) hardening of power lines, facilities, substations, of other systems; and
l) the replacement of old overhead conductors and underground cables.

Funding may also be used for the training, recruitment, retention, and reskilling of skilled and properly credentialed workers in order to perform the work required for the particular resilience measures listed above and described by the State.

The Notice of Hearing and instructions for participating in the public hearing can be found here: https://apps.psc.wi.gov/ERF/ERFview/viewdoc.aspx?docid=454445

EPISODE 31 - THIRD ANNUAL YEAR-IN-REVIEW ROUNDTABLE

Fri, 23 Dec 2022 19:48:53 GMT

2022 Year-in-Review Roundtable

The Year-in-Review crew is back to discuss all things energy in 2022. Our panel answers questions about their top energy stories, ideas, projects, and podcast episodes of the year! Topics this year include: the Inflation Reduction Act, energy reliability, nuclear fusion, the Inflation Reduction Act, Miss Wisconsin (and now, Miss America!) Grace Stanke and her clean energy platform, electric vehicles, storage as the new solar, and the Inflation Reduction Act. (Notice a pattern?)

Listen to Episode 31 of the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts, or at our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/Jmt4k7F_Gk8

Our panel includes:

• Carrie Templeton, Chief of Staff to PSCW Chairperson Rebecca Valcq

• Chris Hubbuch, energy reporter for the Wisconsin State Journal

• Matthew Spencer, Director of Government Affairs, Madison Gas and Electric

• Jennifer Shilling, Government Relations Manager, Dairyland Power Cooperative

Our panel answers the question of what they’d do with “All the Power” in the industry with answers ranging from more news coverage of energy issues (guess!); encouraging Wisconsin’s use of federal funds for clean energy projects; and, highlighting the positive work of the electric industry.

Show Links:

Spence & Chris - Favorite Episode of the Electric Wire:

Electric Wire, Episode 28 - Shining a Light on Investor-Owned Utilities with Jeff Keebler

https://youtu.be/M6g_x2Fd9XY

Carrie - Favorite Episode of the Electric Wire:

Episode 23: The Future of Utilities with Rebecca Ryan and Lauren Azar

https://youtu.be/fgfVpRNS04o

Jen - Favorite Episode(s!) of the Electric Wire:

Electric Wire, Episode 24 - Nuclear Power and the Clean Energy Transition with Brent Ridge

https://youtu.be/KGw0c7H8Vis

Electric Wire, Episode 30 - Getting to Know Wisconsin's Electric Cooperatives

https://youtu.be/sUjZS7wfNq4

Electric Wire, Episode 18 (2021) - New Energy for an Old Coal Plant: Beloit College Powerhouse Interview with Dan Schooff

https://youtu.be/AsQh0eadEGA

Kristin - Favorite Episode(s) of the Electric Wire:

Electric Wire, Episode 27 - The Reality of Retail Choice with Laurel Peltier

https://youtu.be/r6fD7EMD_BY

Electric Wire, Episode 21 - A Second Wind: Recycling Wind Turbine Blades

https://youtu.be/IebcxHpMf5M

Chris Hubbuch’s story about the Inflation Reduction Act and heat pumps:

https://madison.com/news/local/environment/a-little-bit-for-everybody-how-the-inflation-reduction-act-boosts-clean-energy/article_d6e7fb5a-468f-5126-9b17-33d4883a7888.html

Link to provide feedback about the Electric Wire podcast:

https://forms.gle/yL5va4kR7RU4qiju8

Don’t forget you can also give us some stars and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts! Thanks for listening!

EPISODE 30 – GETTING TO KNOW WISCONSIN’S ELECTRIC COOPERATIVES

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 18:00:14 GMT

Madison, WI – The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast is all about electric cooperatives, with Rob Richard, Director of Government Affairs, Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association, joining Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director, Customers First! Coalition, as co-host.

The episode features a panel of representatives from four electric cooperatives from across the state, including:

Robert Cornell, Manager, Washington Island Electric Cooperative
Monica Obrycki, President and CEO, Eau Claire Energy Cooperative
Karen Newbury, Director, Price Electric Cooperative (also WECA Board member and Dairyland Power Cooperative Board member)
Nate Boettcher, President and CEO, Pierce Pepin Cooperative Services

The panel discussion includes stories about cooperation among co-ops, energy generation and reliability, the new CHARGE EV network for electric vehicle charging at cooperatives, and bringing broadband to cooperative members.

Note: WECA is a Founding Member of the Customers First! Coalition.

To listen or watch the episode, search for the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or see it on our YouTube channel, here:

https://youtu.be/sUjZS7wfNq4

EPISODE 29 – ROOTED IN COMMUNITY: MUNICIPAL ELECTRIC UTILITIES OF WISCONSIN

Mon, 21 Nov 2022 17:58:21 GMT

November 8, 2022/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, we will learn more about the 81 cities, towns and villages across Wisconsin that own and operate a municipal electric utility. These municipal utilities are organized together through the Municipal Electric Utilities of Wisconsin (MEUW), and we brought together a panel of experts to share more about the unique benefits of public power, including: Tim Heinrich , President and CEO of MEUW; Tyler Vorpagel , Director of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs at MEUW; Troy Adams , General Manager, Manitowoc Public Utilities; Jill Weiss , Utilities Director at Stoughton Utilities; and, Rick Wicklund , General Manager, Sun Prairie Utilities.

Listen to the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast below!

https://youtu.be/00s1H5MNYN0

EPISODE 28 – SHINING A LIGHT ON IOUs with Jeff Keebler

Fri, 21 Oct 2022 14:51:40 GMT

Madison, WI – On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, we take a closer look at the investor-owned utility model with Jeff Keebler, Chairman, President, and CEO of Madison Gas and Electric. Jeff shares more insights on how investor-owned utilities work, how they’re regulated, and the new technologies changing the power dynamics in the industry.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s (EIA) electric power sector survey data, almost 3,000 electric distribution companies—or utilities—are operating in the United States. EIA classifies utilities into three ownership types: investor-owned utilities, publicly run utilities such as municipal utilities, and cooperatives.

This episode features investor-owned utilities, or IOUs, which are large electric distributors that issue stock owned by shareholders. Almost three-quarters of utility customers get their electricity from these companies. Upcoming episodes will discuss municipal utilities and electric cooperatives.

Note: MGE is a member of the Customers First! Coalition, which produces the Electric Wire podcast.

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast wherever you get your podcasts or listen/watch at our YouTube channel here:

Links and additional reading:

Energy Information Administration (EIA): https://www.eia.gov/todayinenergy/detail.php?id=40913

Madison Gas and Electric https://www.mge.com/

Wisconsin Utilities Association https://www.wiutilities.org/

Edison Electric Institute https://www.eei.org/

American Gas Association https://www.aga.org/

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin https://psc.wi.gov/

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin: Electric Service Territory Maps https://maps.psc.wi.gov/portal/apps/webappviewer/index.html?id=bb1a9f501e3d472cbde970310540b466

Wisconsin Legislative Council: Overview of Wisconsin’s Public Utility Regulatory System https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/misc/lc/information_memos/2017/im_2017_01

EPISODE 27 – THE REALITY OF RETAIL CHOICE

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 14:50:46 GMT

Madison, WI – Laurel Peltier of the Maryland Energy Supplier Reform Coalition joins the Electric Wire podcast to discuss her first-hand experience with retail choice in Maryland. Laurel helps customers decipher their energy bills and has found countless examples of customers who would be saving money if they had stayed with their regulated utility.

Laurel’s web site: https://www.energysupplierhelpdesk.org/

Laurel’s recommendation for saving money on energy bills starts with energy efficiency! Wisconsin

customers can get information on energy efficiency audits and energy saving measures from Focus on Energy, here: https://focusonenergy.com/

Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch on our YouTube channel below.

EPISODE 26 – TAKING THE INDUSTRY BY STORM: THE FIRST F150 LIGHTNING EV IS HERE

Mon, 08 Aug 2022 14:49:26 GMT

Madison, WI – New Ford F150 Lightning owners Nick and Alicia Schmidt join the Electric Wire podcast to share some of their experiences as the first recipients of Ford’s F150 Lightning EV. We discuss EV charging, the Lightning’s infamous “frunk”, and their experience towing an Airstream behind the Lightning.

Show Notes:

Link to NPR story on Nick and Alicia from earlier this summer: https://www.npr.org/2022/06/20/1104920656/ford-electric-f150-lightning-electric-vehicles-automakers

Listen to the episode on YouTube at the link below, or download the episode and subscribe to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts!

EPISODE 25 – NUCLEAR POWER, RELIABILITY & GLOBAL WEIRDING

Sat, 25 Jun 2022 16:56:46 GMT

June 25, 2022/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – Andy Bochman, Senior Grid Strategist, Idaho National Lab, and Bob Stone, Business Manager, IBEW 2150, join Electric Wire podcast host Kristin Gilkes to discuss a range of issues including preserving jobs and reliability in the coal to cleaner power transition, and how Andy’s coined the term “global weirding.”

A must-listen episode that serves as a follow up to our recent conversation with Brent Ridge of Dairyland Power Cooperative about their exploration of nuclear energy.

Listen to the episode on YouTube at the link below, or download the episode and subscribe to the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts!

https://youtu.be/Tpc EMypyy8o

EPISODE 24 – NUCLEAR POWER AND THE CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION WITH BRENT RIDGE

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 16:51:45 GMT

June 7, 2022/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The lastest episode of the Electric Wire podcast features Brent Ridge, President and CEO, Dairyland Power Cooperative, and Phil Montgomery, former Wisconsin legislator and PSCW Chairperson discussing the future of nuclear power in Wisconsin and how new small modular reactor (SMR) technology may help facilitate the clean energy transition.

https://youtu.be/KGw0c7H8Vis

WPR: With millions in federal investment, Wisconsin weighs strategy to expand electric vehicle infrastructure

Wed, 04 May 2022 23:19:19 GMT

Policy issues facing electric vehicles and the state’s transportation system were the focus of a panel discussion held Tuesday by the Customers First Coalition that was broadcast on WisconsinEye . The panelists included representatives of utilities, automakers, road builders, energy advocates and Wisconsin Transportation Secretary Craig Thompson.

Link to full article: https://www.wpr.org/millions-federal-investment-wisconsin-weighs-strategy-expand-electric-vehicle-infrastructure

With millions in federal investment, Wisconsin weighs strategy to expand electric vehicle infrastructure

Wisconsin is set to receive nearly $79M over the next 5 years to expand electric vehicle charging stations

By Danielle Kaeding of Wisconsin Public Radio

Published: Wednesday, May 4, 2022

Wisconsin is set to receive nearly $79 million over the next five years to expand electric vehicle charging stations through the federal bipartisan infrastructure law. Now, state policymakers are tasked with developing a plan by August to expand access as the auto industry and utilities rapidly move toward an electrified transportation system.

"We are looking at major increase in the amount of electric vehicles that will be on the road," Thompson said. "From my standpoint, it's incumbent upon the public sector to be ready for that, and to be able to support that on behalf of Wisconsin's economy and the nation's economy."

The Edison Electric Institute estimates there are more than 2 million electric vehicles on the nation’s highways. That makes up less than 1 percent of the roughly 276 million vehicles on the road, according to most recent federal data . Wisconsin had 7,521 registered electric vehicles last year, and that number has grown an average of 9 percent each year from 2016 to 2020.

Automakers like General Motors have vowed to phase out sales of vehicles running on gas and diesel by 2035. President Joe Biden has set an ambitious goal for half of all new vehicles sold to be electric, hybrid or fuel cell electric by 2030 as part of larger efforts to cut carbon emissions. Transportation accounts for the largest share of heat-trapping greenhouse gas emissions that contribute to global warming.

Read the full story from Wisconsin Public Radio: https://www.wpr.org/millions-federal-investment-wisconsin-weighs-strategy-expand-electric-vehicle-infrastructure

CFC POWER DIALOGUE: A CANDID CONVERSATION ABOUT ELECTRIC VEHICLE POLICIES

Tue, 26 Apr 2022 16:50:00 GMT

April 26, 2022/in Events, News /

Madison, WI – The Customers First! Coalition will be hosting a Power Dialogue event on May 3, 2022, to discuss state policy questions surrounding electric vehicles and transportation issues. Speakers and panel will last from 2:30 pm – 4:30 pm at the Madison Club, followed by a networking reception. Registration is required, and details can be found below.

Event Time and Place

Tuesday, May 3, 2022; 2 pm – 5:30 pm

The Madison Club, 5 E Wilson Street, Madison, WI

Eventbrite Page/Registration Link

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cfc-power-dialogue-a-candid-conversation-about-electric-vehicle-policies-registration-315742663807

Event Description

Discussions about electric vehicles and policies impacting their adoption in Wisconsin have increased dramatically over the past few years, and the state now faces policy decisions that will impact the economics of electric vehicles for drivers, utility customers, and taxpayers.

We are bringing together speakers and a panel to discuss some of the biggest policy decisions facing regulators and lawmakers heading into the next budget cycle, including:

How should electric vehicles pay for the use of roads?
What role should the state and federal government play in helping facilitate electric vehicle charging infrastructure?
Are regulatory or statutory changes needed due to increased electric vehicle adoption?

Hear from industry and policy experts about their expectations for electric vehicles and the changing transportation landscape, including:

Opening Remarks:

Sen. Julian Bradley, Chairman, Senate Committee on Utilities, Technology, and Telecommunications

Panel:

Joel Nilsestuen, Assistant Deputy Secretary, Wisconsin Department of Transportation
Josh Fisher, Director, State Affairs, Alliance for Automotive Innovation
Steve Baas, Executive Director, Wisconsin Transportation Builders Association
Deb Erwin, Director, Policy and Program Planning, Clean Transportation, Xcel Energy
Kathy Kuntz, Director, Dane County Office of Energy & Climate Change

Closing Rem arks:

Commissioner Tyler Huebner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Agenda

2:00 pm Registration and Networking, First Floor, Madison Club

2:30 pm Opening Remarks

3:00 pm Panel Discussion

4:30 pm Networking Reception

Registration and Parking Info

Registration is required via Eventbrite:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cfc-power-dialogue-a-candid-conversation-about-electric-vehicle-policies-registration-315742663807

More information about parking near the Madison Club can be found here .

Contact

For questions about registration, agenda, or sponsorship opportunities, please contact Customers First! Coalition Executive Director Kristin Gilkes via email kristin (at) customersfirst.org.

EPISODE 23: THE FUTURE OF UTILITIES WITH REBECCA RYAN AND LAUREN AZAR

Wed, 16 Mar 2022 16:46:31 GMT

March 16, 2022/in News , The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, Rebecca Ryan and Lauren Azar join for a conversation about change in the energy industry and in our world. Rebecca, one of the nation’s leading futurists, discusses local and global trends that everyone should be preparing for. Lauren, one of America’s most respected utility attorneys, leads the conversation about change in the energy industry, as they answer the following questions, and more:

How do we get those in the utility industry to start thinking like futurists?
How important are governmental or industry goals to get where we want to go?
What does the future look like for EV’s and electrification?
What are the craziest changes coming by 2050 that we haven’t thought of yet?

Cari Anne Renlund, Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Madison Gas and Electric Co., joins Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director of the Customers First! Coalition, as co-host (and bonus guest) for a lively and inspiring conversation about the direction of the industry.

Listen to the Electric Wire, Episode 23, “The Future of Utilities with Rebecca Ryan and Lauren Azar” wherever you get your podcasts, or on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/fgfVpRNS04o

Guest Bios

Rebecca Ryan is a futurist, an economist, and a gifted communicator and thought leader. She is the author of The Next Big Things: The Future of Local Government (2015), ReGENERATION: A Manifesto for America’s Future Leaders (2013), and Live First, Work Second: Getting Inside the Head of the Next Generation (2007). Her TEDx talk, Spring is Coming, was featured at the prestigious TEDxBeaconStreet in 2015. Richard Florida, author of The Rise of the Creative Class, calls Rebecca “one of the most reliable sources for CEOs and Mayors who want to attract and keep the next generation of creative workers.” Rebecca is the founder of Futurist Camp, inventor of Futures Labs, and owner of NEXT Generation Consulting, Inc. She is a faculty member and Board Chair at the Institute for Zen Leadership.

Lauren Azar’s experience as a public service commissioner, senior advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Energy, and one of America’s most respected utility attorneys make her a valuable partner in bringing new technologies to market and assisting traditional utilities as a respected advisor.

Cari Anne Renlund is Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary of Madison Gas and Electric Co., an investor-owned, community energy company in Madison, Wisconsin. She is the officer in charge of Legal and Risk Management, Safety, Sustainability and Environmental Affairs, Legislative Affairs and NERC Compliance and Generation Operations.

Links from the Episode:

More on MGE’s 2030 and 2050 Carbon Reduction Goals:
https://www.mge2050.com/en/

IPCC: Sixth Assessment Report
https://www.ipcc.ch/assessment-report/ar6/

Note from Rebecca: The Good Judgment Project ( https://www.gjopen.com ) makes predictions on EV penetration and MANY other things. The Good Judgment Project was founded by the author of Superforecasting , Phil Tetlock who found that regular people can learn to do foresight as well or better than trained CIA agents.

Long Bets is also does long term wagering about the future, fueled by a bunch of futurists and thought leaders. I just dropped on and Steven Pinker has a challenge about Bioterrorism.

How to Become a Cyborg from MIT Technology Review:

https://www.technologyreview.com/2018/06/19/142228/here-are-some-ways-to-upgrade-yourself-one-body-part-at-a-time/

EPISODE 22 – WINTER HEATING COSTS DISCUSSED AT CAPITOL BRIEFING

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 17:26:43 GMT

February 28, 2022/in News , The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – On February 23, 2022, several legislators invited representatives from Wisconsin’s investor-owned utilities to provide information to legislative offices at the Wisconsin State Capitol about the higher-than-average costs of natural gas heating bills this winter.

On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, we share a recording of the briefing, including information provided by Bill Skewes, Executive Director, Wisconsin Utilities Association; Rich Stasik, Director of State Regulatory Affairs, WEC Energy Group; Sara Mead, Director of Gas Supply, WEC Business Services; and, Matt Vincent, Senior Manager of Energy Markets and Fuel Supply, Alliant Energy.

The presenters covered some of the key drivers of increases in heating costs this winter as they relate to natural gas, including higher demand and lower inventory.

Skewes noted that for these utilities, the natural gas provided for home heating is a pass-through expense, and utilities don’t earn a higher profit from the higher costs of natural gas that they buy on the market.

Utilities undertake various strategies on behalf of their customers to mitigate the risk of gas price fluctuations over time, including hedging strategies to allow them to purchase some gas supplies when costs are lower. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin reviews utility activities and expenses and ultimately sets customer rates.

Listen to the Electric Wire, Episode 22, “Capitol Briefing on Winter Heating Bills,” wherever you get your podcasts, or at our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/BhKKjTWk3jg

Briefing Notes

Energy Information Administration: Fluctuating weather this winter has significantly affected natural gas prices…

“Natural gas prices in the United States fluctuate during the winter months due to a variety of factors, including the levels of natural gas inventories, production, consumption, exports, pipeline congestion, availability and competition with other energy sources in electricity generation, and weather.

Unusually cold winter weather events result in increased demand for space heating and may be accompanied by production disruptions (such as well freeze-offs ) or natural gas infrastructure disruptions (such as compressor outages ).”

Link:
https://www.eia.gov/naturalgas/weekly/archivenew_ngwu/2022/02_24/#itn-tabs-0

We Energies: Understanding the PGA line on your bill

“Natural gas is bought and sold on the commodities market, similar to goods like oil or milk. The price we pay for the gas is the same price you pay — there is no mark up.”

Link:
https://www.wecenergygroup.com/home/message/we-energies-cold-wx-impact.htm

Alliant Energy: Increased fuel prices likely to impact heating bills this winter

“The EIA estimates natural gas costs in the Midwest will rise nearly 50% compared to last year due to projected increases in fuel costs and the likelihood households will use more energy due to a predicted colder winter.”

Link :
https://www.alliantenergy.com/accountandbilling/billmeterrates/makingsenseofheatingcosts

EPISODE 21 – A SECOND WIND: RECYCLING WIND TURBINE BLADES

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 17:21:10 GMT

January 25, 2022/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast features a conversation about wind turbine blade recycling with Nicholas Killen, Director, Head of Manufacturing Lifecycle Services, Regional Manufacturing AME, Vestas Blades. Commissioner Tyler Huebner of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin joins Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director of the Customers First! Coalition, as a co-host.

The interview addresses the following questions and more:

How do wind turbines work and how long do they last?
What is the process for recycling wind turbine blades?
What does the recycled material become at the end of the recycling process?
What is the future for the recycling of blades?
What are the costs and benefits of recycling the blades?

Both Killen and Commissioner Huebner share what they’d do with “all the power” in the industry for the final question of the episode.

Listen to the latest episode of the Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or at the Customers First! Coalition YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IebcxHpMf5M

The Electric Wire podcast is a monthly production of the Customers First! Coalition featuring Wisconsin energy and utilities interviews and news.

EPISODE 20: 2021 YEAR-IN-REVIEW ROUNDTABLE

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 17:18:33 GMT

December 22, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The Year-in-Review Crew is back again this year to break down the top energy stories and ideas of 2021 on the Electric Wire podcast! Carrie Templeton, Heather Allen, Chris Hubbuch, and Matthew Spencer join to share their picks for top energy story, idea, and shock of the year, along with their predictions for 2022 and, of course, what they’d do with “all the power.”

Our Roundtable Guests

Carrie Templeton, Chief of Staff to Public Service Commission of WI Chairperson Rebecca Valcq
Chris Hubbuch, energy reporter for the Wisconsin State Journal
Heather Allen, Executive Director, RENEW Wisconsin
Matthew Spencer, Government Affairs, Madison Gas and Electric

Listen to the Electric Wire podcast, Episode 20, “2021 Year-in-Review Roundtable,” wherever you listen to podcasts, or at our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/UAHoSkPUh9U

EPISODE 19: DECONSTRUCTING THE BIPARTISAN INFRASTRUCTURE FRAMEWORK

Tue, 30 Nov 2021 17:16:22 GMT

November 30, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast features Denise Bode, Partner at Michael Best Strategies, and Senior Partner, Michael Best & Friedrich LLC, deconstructing the energy provisions in the Bipartisan Infrastructure Framework (BIF) and the Build Back Better plan working its way through Congress.

Denise leads the federal policy practice at Michael Best Strategies with over 30 years of experience in trade association and coalition management as well as development of public policy strategies, at both the state and federal level. She has been following these landmark pieces of legislation closely as they relate to the energy industry, including transmission, smart grid, electrification, and hydrogen infrastructure provisions.

Jennifer Shilling of Dairyland Power Cooperative joins Kristin Gilkes of the Customers First! Coalition as co-host for the nineteenth episode of the Electric Wire podcast.

Listen now wherever you get your podcasts or on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/UbcynTIUPzM

EPISODE 18 - NEW ENERGY FOR AN OLD COAL PLANT

Fri, 29 Oct 2021 16:14:34 GMT

October 29, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – Is there a second life for retired power plants? For the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, we joined Dan Schooff, currently the Chief of Staff and Secretary at Beloit College, and a former Beloit-area legislator and WI Department of Administration Secretary, to tour the Beloit College Powerhouse on the banks of the Rock River to see the transformation that has taken place there.

The Beloit College Powerhouse was originally a coal plant built in the early 1900’s, and was recently reimagined as a student center for the college. Dan led the efforts on this massive undertaking, and in our interview, he shares more about preserving and restoring the historic power plant, and the core mission of sustainability that drove efforts to use geothermal heating and cooling on this award-winning structure.

Listen to the Electric Wire, Episode 18, “New Energy for an Old Coal Plant: Beloit College Powerhouse Tour and Interview with Dan Schooff” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AsQh0eadEGA

https://youtu.be/AsQh0eadEGA

EPISODE 17 - NAVIGATING THE ROADMAP TO ZERO CARBON DOCKET

Thu, 30 Sep 2021 16:12:27 GMT

September 30, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast features an interview with Joe Fontaine, the case coordinator for the Public Service of Wisconsin’s current open docket on the Roadmap to Zero Carbon (5-EI-158). Joe helps navigate the Commission’s recent order in this docket, and we discuss upcoming items relating to Performance Based Regulation (PBR), the Focus on Energy Quad Planning Process, utility resource planning, and consumer affordability.

Listen to the Electric Wire, Episode 17, “Navigating the Roadmap to Zero Carbon with Joe Fontaine,” wherever you listen to podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here:

https://youtu.be/rzXT4GPNWkI

EPISODE 16 - A LUCID EV CONVERSATION WITH DANIEL WITT

Tue, 31 Aug 2021 16:10:26 GMT

August 31, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – On the latest episode of The Electric Wire podcast, Daniel Witt, Head of State and Local Public Policy at Lucid Motors, joins to discuss more about Lucid Motors , the benefits of electric vehicles, EV battery reuse and recycling, making supply chains local, and policies impacting the electric vehicle industry.

Listen to the Electric Wire, Episode 16, “A Lucid Conversation with Daniel Witt,” wherever you listen to podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here:

https://youtu.be/8Y5EHkQ4UE4

Episode 15 - THINKING OUTSIDE THE LANDFILL: SOLAR PANEL RECYCLING

Mon, 23 Aug 2021 16:08:19 GMT

July 30, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – Not only is the energy produced by solar panels clean, but cutting-edge recycling technology makes them fully sustainable as well.

On the latest episode of The Electric Wire podcast, host and Executive Director of the Customers First! Coalition, Kristin Gilkes, is joined by Chris Stearns, National Sales Director at Cascade Eco Minerals , to discuss solar module recycling and the policies and costs impacting the demand for this process.

Listen to the Electric Wire, Episode 15, “Thinking Outside the Landfill: A Conversation About Solar Panel Recycling,” wherever you listen to podcasts, or on our YouTube channel, here:

https://youtu.be/2nKV15kL9LU

EPISODE 14 - TEN POWERFUL MOMENTS ON THE ELECTRIC WIRE

Wed, 30 Jun 2021 16:05:49 GMT

June 30, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The Electric Wire podcast, a production of the Customers First! Coalition, debuted in February 2020 as a way to keep listeners informed on Wisconsin energy and utility issues, and we thought it was time to take a look back on some of our favorite moments from the past year and a half of the Electric Wire!

Matt Spencer, Government Affairs Manager, Madison Gas and Electric, joins Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director, Customers First! Coalition, to co-host a countdown of Ten Powerful Moments, and one honorable mention, from the Electric Wire.

Themes from these top moments include bringing stakeholders together to tackle big issues in the industry; protecting all utility customers; and visualizing the new energy innovations that are propelling the clean energy transition forward.

Listen to the Electric Wire, Episode 14 -Ten Powerful Moments on the Electric Wire, wherever you listen to podcasts, or on YouTube here:

https://youtu.be/9P509tDWlJg

EPISODE 13 - HOT TAKE: COMMUNITY SOLAR

Thu, 27 May 2021 16:02:05 GMT

May 27, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast is a “hot take” episode, where we’ve conducted four separate mini-interviews, about 5-6 minutes each, to talk about community solar in Wisconsin.

Back in 2017, the Customers First! Coalition put together a whitepaper about the community solar projects and models that fit within the regulatory structure here in Wisconsin. In this podcast episode, we’ll follow up on some of those innovative projects mentioned in the whitepaper.

Our guests include:

Commissioner Ellen Nowak, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (Interview begins at ~2:45)
Deb Erwin, Manager of Regulatory Policy, Xcel Energy (11:00)
Lynn Thompson, President and CEO, Eau Claire Energy Cooperative (17:50)
Cheri Salmon, Manager of New Products and Services, Madison Gas and Electric (23:30)

Links mentioned in Episode

2017 CFC Community Solar Whitepaper
http://www.customersfirst.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Community-Solar-reduced.pdf

Electric Wire Podcast Episode: Utility Regulation and Protecting Customers
http://www.customersfirst.org/electricwire/electric-wire-episode-9-utility-regulation-and-protecting-customers/

Electric Wire Podcast Episode: EV Road Trip
http://www.customersfirst.org/electricwire/electric-wire-episode-2-ev-road-trip/

https://youtu.be/GA2vzaITz5Q

EPISODE 12 - ENERGY ASSISTANCE DURING THE PANDEMIC

Wed, 14 Apr 2021 15:58:36 GMT

April 14, 2021/in News, The Electric Wire Podcast /

Madison, WI – The latest episode of the Electric Wire Podcast will help listeners better understand how energy assistance is administered, how pandemic-related funding is being distributed, and what resources are available to in-need households as Wisconsin’s moratorium on disconnecting electric customers for non-payment comes to an end on April 15. The Electric Wire Podcast is a production of the Customers First! Coalition, an organization dedicated to preserving Wisconsin’s affordable and reliable electricity.

This episode’s guests include:

Barb Klug, Home Energy Plus Bureau Director; Division of Energy, Housing and Community Resources, Wisconsin Department of Administration
Kristy Nieto, Administrator, Division of Digital Access, Consumer and Environmental Affairs, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

The episode addresses the following questions:

What energy assistance funding has come from the federal government since the beginning of the pandemic and how is Wisconsin administering programs to distribute this assistance?
What is a first step for a customer who is behind on their bill? Who should they reach out to first and how do they know what they are eligible for?
What role does the PSC play in helping customers stay on track with paying their bills and settling any disputes with utilities?
What are some common questions from legislative offices as they try to connect their constituents with resources?

The podcast also includes helpful resources for connecting in-need customers with bill-payment assistance as the disconnection moratorium for non-payment comes to an end.

Listen to the full episode by downloading or subscribing to the Electric Wire on all podcast channels, or listen at the Customers First! Coalition YouTube channel, here:

https://youtu.be/9ogRle6Rdms

EPISODE 11 - REGULATION, RELIABILITY…AND TEXAS

Fri, 12 Mar 2021 16:55:39 GMT

Madison, WI – Widespread power outages and skyrocketing customer bills due to a frigid February freeze in Texas are raising questions about the way the state regulates power providers.

We brought in a panel of experts to weigh in on questions about regulation, reliability, and what went wrong in Texas.

Our panel includes:

John Carr, Vice President – Power Supply, Dairyland Power Cooperative
Paul Griffin, Executive Director, Energy Fairness
Kira Loehr, Partner, Perkins Coie

Listen to The Electric Wire, Episode 11, “Regulation, Reliability…and Texas” wherever you listen to podcasts, or on our You Tube channel, here: https://youtu.be/KLgkLcI_mp0

We’ll address the following questions in this roundtable discussion:

What is the role energy choice played in the Texas system outages?
How can we prevent this type of massive, prolonged power outage from happening here?
Are grid updates needed to prepare for more extreme weather events?
Was any generation source the clear winner or loser coming out of this situation?

Links Referenced in Podcast

“The real problem in Texas: Deregulation,” Opinion Column by Paul Griffin, Utility Dive, February 24, 2021
https://www.utilitydive.com/news/the-real-problem-in-texas-deregulation/595564/

“Texas Energy Co-Op Files For Bankruptcy After Storm, High Bill,” NPR, March 1, 2021
https://www.npr.org/2021/03/01/972408584/texas-energy-co-op-files-for-bankruptcy-after-storm-high-bill

CFC Applauds Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program

Thu, 25 Feb 2021 16:53:05 GMT

PR - Madison, WI - Earlier today, Governor Tony Evers announced the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which would provide $322 million in funding to help support Wisconsinites who have experienced income loss as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Customers First! Coalition applauds this announcement and has been supportive of the funding since it was being considered by Congress late last year.

“Providing relief for utility arrears is an important step towards helping electric customers keep up with their bills during the pandemic and ensuring energy providers can continue to provide the safe and reliable power that is needed more than ever,” according to Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director of the Customers First! Coalition.

Through the program, rental and utility assistance payments are made directly to the landlord or utility provider on behalf of the tenant. The DOA will partner with Wisconsin Community Action agencies and Energy Services, Inc. to accept applications and distribute rental and utility assistance.

In a typical year, LIHEAP, the Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program, which is also funded by the federal government and implemented by the states, serves only a fraction of the households eligible for assistance. Additional energy assistance funding for in-need households due to COVID-19 is critical to both to help customers and ensure utilities can continue to fund operations while continuing to provide power, which currently cannot be disconnected due to non-payment because of the annual winter disconnection moratorium.

The Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program is funded by the Federal Emergency Rental Assistance Program and administered by the U.S. Department of Treasury. More details about the Wisconsin Emergency Rental Assistance Program are available here .

The Customers First! Coalition is an alliance of customer, business, labor, and environmental organizations; municipal and cooperative electric utilities; and an investor-owned utility. The Coalition has worked together for more than two decades to promote public policies that preserve Wisconsin’s affordable and reliable electricity.

EPISODE 10 – COAL PLANT CLOSURES AND THE CLEAN ENERGY TRANSITION

Wed, 24 Feb 2021 16:50:09 GMT

February 24, 2021/in The Electric Wire Podcast /

It’s the tenth episode of the The Electric Wire podcast! To start, Kristin Gilkes, Executive Director, Customers First! Coalition, and co-host Tom Content, Executive Director, Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin, discuss recent energy news, including the announced closure of the coal-fired Columbia Energy Center in Portage, WI; a new solar/storage proposal in Kenosha County; diversity and equity reporting requirements at the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin; recent state budget and legislative news; and, the devastating electric system failures in Texas.

We are also joined by a panel to discuss coal plant closures and the clean energy transition from the perspective of several different stakeholders, including Todd Stuart, Executive Director, Wisconsin Industrial Energy Group; Scott Smith, Assistant Vice President – Business and Regulatory Strategy, Madison Gas and Electric; and, Dan Litchfield, Renewable Energy Project Developer, Invenergy.

Our panel discussion begins at the 21:00 minute mark.

Listen by subscribing to The Electric Wire wherever you get your podcasts, or at our You Tube channel here: https://youtu.be/1WL9kBMmy9I

EPISODE 9 – UTILITY REGULATION AND PROTECTING CUSTOMERS

Mon, 25 Jan 2021 16:45:25 GMT

Madison, WI - We’re talking utility regulation! We start with a simple question – why are utilities regulated? (Ok, this question technically doesn’t get asked until minute 7:56, but who’s counting?) We also sort through some common terms on this topic, including discussion about deregulation, restructuring, and retail choice. These topics were central to the founding of the Customers First! Coalition over twenty years ago.

Our first interview is with Commissioner Ellen Nowak of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. We discuss some basics of utility regulation from a regulator’s perspective, as well as her take on topics like retail choice and performance-based ratemaking.

Next, Bill Malcolm of AARP joins to discuss his views on regulation and protecting utility customers. Follow Bill on Twitter @RTOWatchdog . He’s also available to connect on Facebook and LinkedIn. AARP web site: https://www.aarp.org/

Interview with Commissioner Nowak begins at minute 3:30.

Interview with Bill Malcolm begins at minute 35:00.

Links from show notes:

CUB Illinois: Report: Since 2015, IL Customers Have Lost $1 Billion With Alternative Suppliers
https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/report-since-2015-il-customers-have-lost-1-billion-with-alternative-suppliers-301110974.html

Link to download referenced 2019 Illinois Commerce Commission report: https://www.icc.illinois.gov/downloads/public/July%201%20ORMD%20Final%20PR.pdf

Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts or listen at our You Tube channel via the link below:

https://youtu.be/5szygleajsI

EPISODE 8 – 2020 WI ENERGY YEAR-IN-REVIEW

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 16:40:10 GMT

December 22, 2020/in The Electric Wire Podcast /

What was the story of 2020? What about the “shock” of the year? Who’s got the next bright idea for 2021? On the latest episode of The Electric Wire podcast, we’ve got an outstanding roundtable to help review the year of 2020 and look ahead to some brighter days in 2021.

Our roundtable includes:

Chris Hubbuch, Reporter, Wisconsin State Journal
Carrie Templeton, Chief of Staff, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin
Heather Allen, Executive Director, RENEW Wisconsin
Matt Spencer, Government Affairs, Madison Gas & Electric

The Electric Wire podcast is a production of the Customers First! Coalition. Subscribe wherever you listen to Podcasts or listen online at our You Tube channel . You can also follow on Twitter @theelectricwire for updates on the latest episodes.

https://youtu.be/MqJR2yHogWg

ENTIRE WEBINAR SERIES IS AVAILABLE TO WATCH ONLINE

Thu, 05 Nov 2020 16:37:25 GMT

November 5, 2020/in Events, News /

The Customers First! Coalition teamed up with Slipstream in October to host a webinar series which helped educate and facilitate conversation among Wisconsin energy stakeholders.

Our Energy Winners and Losers webinar, held two weeks before Election Day, featured a State of the Election and Q&A with Craig Gilbert, Washington Bureau Chief, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel; and a panel discussion on energy issues of national importance with Denise Bode, Partner, Michael Best Strategies LLC; Jessica Pacheco, Managing Partner, Horizon Strategies; and, Ellen Nowak, Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.

Thanks to WisconsinEye for live streaming and archiving our Energy Winners and Losers webinar!

Watch here: https://wiseye.org/2020/10/21/customers-first-coalition-energy-winners-and-losers/

Our Building Toward Zero Carbon with Grid Flexibility webinar was also a great opportunity to become more familiar with new and emerging building technologies, with remarks from Tyler Huebner, Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin; Rois Langner, Senior Research Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory; Scott Hackel, Director of Research and Innovation, Slipstream; and, Phil Markham, Smart Buildings R&D Manager, Southern Company.

Watch Webinar #2 here!
https://slipstreaminc.org/about/events/building-toward-zero-carbon-grid-flexibility

Our first October energy webinar, Equity and Clean Energy, featured Mandela Barnes, Wisconsin’s 45th Lieutenant Governor; Rebecca Cameron Valcq, Chairperson, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin; Laura Goldberg, Midwest Regional Director, Energy Efficiency for All, Natural Resources Defense Council; and, Tony G. Reames, PhD, PE, Assistant Professor of Energy Justice, University of Michigan School for Environment & Sustainability.

Watch Webinar #1 here!
https://slipstreaminc.org/about/events/equity-and-clean-energy

EPISODE 7 – ELECTION RECAP

Wed, 04 Nov 2020 16:35:39 GMT

November 4, 2020/in The Electric Wire Podcast /

In this episode of the Electric Wire, we take a look at polling and the 2020 Presidential Election results with pollster Charles Franklin, @pollsandvotes. Interview with Franklin begins at minute 7:10.

Later in the podcast, we host a Customers First! Coalition member roundtable with some of the government affairs representatives for CFC members, including Matt Spencer of Madison Gas & Electric, Jennifer

Shilling of Dairyland Power Cooperative, Joseph Owen of WPPI Energy, and Rob Richard of Wisconsin Electric Cooperative Association. Government Affairs Roundtable begins at minute 33:55.

https://youtu.be/lGZuIcSLtVo

EPISODE 6 – BUILDING TOGETHER

Fri, 02 Oct 2020 15:28:00 GMT

October 2, 2020/in The Electric Wire Podcast /

CFC Executive Director Kristin Gilkes is joined by Marge Anderson, Executive Vice President at Slipstream, to discuss green buildings and the upcoming October Energy webinar series hosted by the Customers First! Coalition and Slipstream. Kathy Kuntz, Acting Director of the Dane County Office of Energy and Climate Change also joins to discuss the Dane County Climate Action Plan’s recommendations on buildings and more. We discuss measures listeners can take today to make their homes and businesses more energy efficient. Interview with Kathy Kuntz begins at 14:13 .

https://youtu.be/aG7uBHAr3aM

OCTOBER 2020 WEBINAR SERIES: ENERGY WINNERS AND LOSERS

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 15:23:20 GMT

September 10, 2020/in Events, News /

Energy Winners and Losers
October 21, 2020 – 11 am

As the nation heads towards Election Day, will climate and energy policy shape electoral politics? What policy proposals are generating buzz and which ones will make the biggest impact towards actually reducing emissions?

Speakers

Welcome – Ellen Nowak, Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Panel

Denise Bode, Partner, Michael Best Strategies LLC
More speakers to be announced soon!

The Customers First! Coalition is an alliance of Wisconsin electricity providers, consumer organizations, and utility workers that work together to preserve Wisconsin’s reliable and affordable electricity. Slipstream is a mission-driven nonprofit that inspires new solutions to big energy challenges by empowering more people to adopt new practices and technologies. Our organizations are collaborating to host a series of three energy webinars to help educate and facilitate conversation among Wisconsin energy stakeholders.

OCTOBER 2020 WEBINAR SERIES: BUILDING TOWARD ZERO CARBON WITH GRID FLEXIBILITY

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 15:19:41 GMT

September 10, 2020/in Events, News /

Building Toward Zero Carbon with Grid Flexibility
October 14, 2020 – 11 am

What building technologies are going to be needed to propel us toward state and utility goals of net zero carbon by 2050? We will focus on grid-interactive efficient buildings and highlight specific emerging technologies that will both provide flexibility on the demand side and engage customers more with their utilities. Learn how homes and businesses will serve as a significant asset to the grid of the future.

Speakers

Welcome – Tyler Huebner, Commissioner, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Panel

Scott Hackel, Director of Research and Innovation, Slipstream
Phil Markham, Smart Buildings R&D Manager, Southern Company
Rois Langner, Senior Research Engineer, National Renewable Energy Laboratory

OCTOBER 2020 WEBINAR SERIES: EQUITY AND CLEAN ENERGY

Thu, 10 Sep 2020 15:15:43 GMT

September 10, 2020/in Events, News /

E quity and Clean Energy Webinar
October 6, 2020 – 11 am

Learn how states and programs in the Midwest and across the country are ensuring equitable access to clean energy technologies and programs. What is working and how can we further adopt these principles and strategies in Wisconsin?

Speakers

Welcome – Rebecca Cameron Valcq, Chairperson, Public Service Commission of Wisconsin

Featured Remarks – Mandela Barnes, Wisconsin’s 45th Lieutenant Governor

Panel

Laura Goldberg, Midwest Regional Director, Energy Efficiency for All, Natural Resources Defense Council
Tony G. Reames, PhD, PE, Assistant Professor of Energy Justice, University of Michigan School for Environment & Sustainability

EPISODE 5 – STORAGE SPACE

Thu, 27 Aug 2020 15:13:49 GMT

August 27, 2020/in The Electric Wire Podcast /

On the latest episode of the Electric Wire podcast, we discuss energy storage from a customer angle and review the first “storage as transmission only asset” project being developed in Wisconsin.

First, CFC Executive Director Kristin Gilkes interviews Tom Content, Executive Director of the Citizens Utility Board (CUB), to discuss potential customer benefits from increased use of energy storage and how CUB will evaluate utility storage proposals going forward.

Our second interview is with Bob McKee, Strategic Projects Director at American Transmission Company, who gives an overview of the company’s transmission storage project impetus, timeline, and multi-faceted benefits.

https://youtu.be/9UAmSPb6yl8

EPISODE 4 – SHOOTING THE BREEZE WITH WISCEF AND DPC

Thu, 13 Aug 2020 15:11:14 GMT

August 13, 2020/in The Electric Wire Podcast /

Just in time for #AmericanWindWeek, CFC Executive Director Kristin Gilkes interviews Scott Coenen of the Wisconsin Conservative Energy Forum regarding the organization’s mission and the status of wind in Wisconsin from that group’s perspective. Brian Rude and Jennifer Shilling of Dairyland Power Cooperative discuss their roles within the organization and on the CFC Board, as well as DPC’s investment in wind energy on behalf of co-op customers.

https://youtu.be/NAULjWaSK_Y

EPISODE 3 – WISCONSIN’S ENERGY LEADERS

Fri, 20 Mar 2020 15:08:30 GMT

March 13, 2020/in The Electric Wire Podcast /

Public Service Commission of Wisconsin Chairperson Rebecca Valcq and Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes join Kristin Gilkes and co-host Bob Stone of the IBEW 2150 to discuss Wisconsin’s carbon reduction goals, the Governor’s Climate Change Task Force, and the appointment of Wisconsin’s newest PSC Commissioner.

Interview with Chairperson Valcq begins at Minute 9:40.

Interview with Lt. Governor Barnes begins at Minute 27:00.

https://youtu.be/kS2zZ0f5d8k

EPISODE 2, EV ROAD TRIP!

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 16:03:43 GMT

February 26, 2020/in The Electric Wire Podcast

Get ready for your next EV road trip by downloading our latest podcast episode!

Customers First! Coalition Executive Director Kristin Gilkes and RENEW Wisconsin’s Jane McCurry co-host this special episode all about electric vehicles (EVs) and EV policies. Gilkes and McCurry share personal and nostalgic experiences as EV drivers, and discuss some of the advantages of choosing electric transportation. They also discuss current topics such as battery recycling and mining.

Later, they’re joined by a panel of EV policy experts including Corey Singletary, Citizens Utility Board of Wisconsin; Debbie Branson, Madison Gas & Electric; and Deb Erwin, Xcel Energy, to discuss EV rates and utility issues, including how EVs can ultimately benefit all utility customers. Finally, we have added an extended interview with Deb Erwin from Xcel Energy to delve more deeply into the company’s efforts to study fleet savings that can result from electric vehicle conversion and an EV Roadmap for the City of Eau Claire.

Search for the Electric Wire wherever you subscribe to podcasts, or listen at our YouTube channel.

https://youtu.be/E_JoNtlqzIw

EPISODE 1 – THE RISE OF SOLAR

Wed, 12 Feb 2020 15:59:24 GMT

The first episode of the Electric Wire is out now! Tune in at the link below, and don’t forget to subscribe to the Electric Wire wherever you listen to podcasts so you don’t miss an episode! The first episode is hosted by CFC Executive Director, Kristin Gilkes, and Matt Spencer, Government Affairs Manager at Madison Gas & Electric. The Energy Innovation Podcast Series will take the place of one of our breakfast events this year, but we’ll still be hosting a big annual Power Lunch in April! Registration information for our April Power Lunch can be found on the CFC Events Page.

https://youtu.be/c8gjP_yHuyI

UPCOMING POWER LUNCH – BUILDING TOWARD NET ZERO CARBON

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 15:54:54 GMT

February 11, 2020/in Events, News

Update: As of March 23, 2020, the Power Lunch is POSTPONED until a later date, TBD. Check back soon for updates.

Long term energy goals call for net zero carbon emissions in the electricity sector. What role will buildings play as we decarbonize?

Join us for lunch, networking, and speakers that will get us thinking about policies to lay the foundation for decarbonizing buildings, including electrification and energy efficiency.

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/power-lunch-building-toward-net-zero-carbon-registration-93806500769

New Podcast, the Electric Wire, launched by the Customers First Coalition

Tue, 11 Feb 2020 15:52:27 GMT

The Customers First Coalition has announced it will be producing a new podcast dedicated to Wisconsin energy and utility news. The podcast will be called the Electric Wire , with a nod to CFC's historical printed publication, the Wire.

The Electric Wire Podcast is kicking off with a six-part Energy Innovation Series, where we will interview guests from the Wisconsin energy and utility industry about the topics of solar, electric vehicles, energy storage, microgrids, wind, and smart buildings.

Search for the Electric Wire wherever you subscribe to podcasts or watch on the CFC YouTube channel, here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCswVoTn7PRLKaVFMwDfRFbA

You can also follow @theelectricwire on Twitter to get notifications of new episodes, pictures, and other information about the podcast!

Thank you to the members of the Customers First! Coalition for sponsoring the Electric Wire podcast.

Electric Vehicle charging investments have many benefits

Fri, 26 Apr 2019 23:02:29 GMT

WisPolitics Opinion Column from CFC Executive Director

The following column was posted by WisPolitics.com here:

https://www.wispolitics.com/2019/kristin-gilkes-electric-vehicle-charging-infrastructure-investments-have-many-benefits

The column below reflects the views of the author, and these opinions are neither endorsed nor supported by WisOpinion.com.

Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle are signaling their interest in investments for Wisconsin’s publicly-available electric vehicle, or “EV,” charging infrastructure. The Customers First! Coalition applauds these efforts because of the broad benefits the investments could have for citizens across the state.

Earlier this week, Assembly Republicans, led by Rep. Adam Neylon (R-Pewaukee), unveiled an Earth Day plan which would create “Clean Energy Corridor Grants” to drive investment in EV charging infrastructure along Wisconsin’s most travelled highways and connect them with similar corridors in neighboring states. The Governor’s Executive Budget also recommends EV charging infrastructure investments, with funding for both plans coming from VW settlement funds awarded to the state to mitigate excess emissions from Volkswagen diesel vehicles. Settlement terms dictate the funds—which are not coming from taxpayer dollars—be used for efforts to reduce emissions, which the current plans would accomplish. The plans call for investment in infrastructure only—EV drivers would still pay to charge their vehicle as they travel.

Greater EV adoption, facilitated by the proposed infrastructure investments, could actually help keep electricity rates down for all electric utility customers. As more cars, buses, and fleets begin to electrify, they will drive electricity sales that help utilities spread their fixed costs over a greater number of purchased units. A February 2019 Synapse Energy report in California concluded, “Our analysis indicates that, from 2012 through 2017, EVs in California have increased utility revenues more than they have increased utility costs, leading to downward pressure on electric rates for EV-owners and non-EV owners alike.”

Electric Vehicle proliferation is gaining steam in Wisconsin and nationally. EV registrations across the nation doubled from 2017 to 2018. As registrations and associated electricity use go up due to this trend, it’s important to note that EV drivers are helping the state’s finances and contributing to the transportation fund. Utilities and electric cooperatives are assessed via the state’s utility gross revenues tax, which is deposited into the state’s general fund. This means that as electricity sales grow, so do contributions to the general fund. Electricity is also subject to the sales tax in warmer months. In 2018, the state began collecting an additional annual registration fee on EV drivers that is deposited into the transportation fund to help pay for roads.

Another shared benefit of EVs is cleaner air. EVs are responsible for about half of the carbon emissions as a typical gasoline-fired vehicle, and their environmental benefits will continue to grow as utilities transition their generation fleets to cleaner fuel sources. Because of the dramatic decline in the cost of utility-scale renewable energy over the past decade, this clean energy transition is a reality for utilities, who have set steep carbon-reduction goals over the next few decades.

Urban and rural drivers, as well as fleet and transit managers, should know that EVs typically cost about half as much to fuel as gasoline-fired vehicles. Using “eGallons,” the U.S. Department of Energy helps drivers calculate the cost of fueling a vehicle with electricity compared to a similar vehicle that runs on gasoline. In Wisconsin, the average cost of a gallon of gas is $2.56. By comparison, an “eGallon” is $1.27, based on average retail electricity rates in the state. Drivers also save on maintenance costs, as oil changes become a thing of the past.

Drivers and vehicle buyers can get all these benefits from electric vehicles right now. But to kick the adoption of electric vehicles into a higher gear, we need to make sure people can drive electric all across Wisconsin and have plenty of places to refuel their vehicles on longer trips. Typical driving range for a fully-charged EV can vary between 100-300 miles. Investments in EV charging infrastructure, now proposed by Wisconsin lawmakers on both sides of the aisle, will go a long way towards helping drivers feel comfortable their vehicle will work for long-distance travel and could help encourage greater EV adoption rates.

With significant potential benefits in store statewide, it’s no wonder EV charging infrastructure investments are being discussed. Our Customers First! Coalition is encouraged by the progress being made towards these investments and we support the inclusion of EV charging infrastructure funding in the final version of the state budget.