Press Releases
2021
Wind Energy Pays $65 Million in Sales & Use Taxes
Wind Energy Pays $65 Million in Sales & Use Taxes
Contractor’s Excise Taxes add $16 Million
Pierre, S.D., (March 25, 2021) – According to the most recent American Clean Power report, South Dakota has 2,305 megawatts of installed wind capacity and is among the top 10 states in the country with the most under construction and advance wind development activity in 2020. A total of 774 megawatts of wind capacity were installed in South Dakota in 2020. In addition, there are 773 megawatts of wind under construction, and another 328 megawatts in advanced stages of development.
South Dakota’s rich natural resources, friendly business environment and the completion of recent transmission projects are helping drive renewable energy development. In turn, that development is contributing to a significant increase in the amount of revenue flowing to state coffers. According to the recent South Dakota Bureau of Finance and Management report, the significant growth of wind energy development in the state has contributed $65 million in Sales and Use taxes in 2020, a 103 percent increase from 2019. Revenue from contractor’s excise taxes was $16 million in 2020, an increase of 60 percent over 2019.
“The renewable energy boom we’ve seen in South Dakota is not only related to the excellent wind resource, it’s also the result of the transmission line project in Brookings County, which was completed by CapX2020 in 2017,” said Clean Grid Alliance Regional Policy Manager, Peder Mewis. “However, transmission capacity is already filled. Going forward, new transmission infrastructure will be needed to accommodate more renewable energy development.
The cost of wind energy has fallen 70 percent in the last decade, and the cost of utility-scale solar has fallen 90 percent since 2009. As a result, more utilities and corporate purchasers are adding renewable energy to their portfolios to help keep the cost of energy low for consumers. At the same time, the growing demand for low-cost renewable energy is providing opportunities for rural communities to benefit from the jobs and economic benefits that come from such projects.
“Since small, rural communities are not likely to attract large employers, renewable energy projects are a great fit for communities looking to give their local economies a boost,” said Mewis. “They offer good-paying local jobs that attract or retain young families. The land-lease payments really help landowners diversify their income stream and can even help keep the farm in the family. And, now we’re seeing how much the state as a whole benefits from these projects.”
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Clean Grid Alliance (CGA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., whose mission is to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Launched in 2001, CGA has been an active stakeholder in the MISO process at the state and regional levels. CGA’s membership includes industry representatives working in wind, solar and storage as well as environmental nonprofit organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups, and businesses providing goods and services to the renewable energy industry who come together to reduce carbon and deliver a renewable energy future. Learn more at cleangridalliance.org.
Governor Walz declares March 10 as ‘Clean Energy Business Day’
Governor Walz declares March 10 as ‘Clean Energy Business Day’
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date: March 10, 2021
Contact: Amelia Cerling Hennes
ahennes@cleanenergyeconomymn.org
| 507.251.5140
Governor Walz declares March 10 as ‘Clean Energy Business Day’
Clean energy industry shows its strength amid pandemic hurdles
ST. PAUL, MINN. – Coming off the heels of news that the US saw its biggest addition of renewable energy ever in 2020, despite the hurdles posed by the pandemic – Governor Walz highlighted the significance of Minnesota’s clean energy business community and its many contributions to the state. Today, he delivered a proclamation that declares March 10, 2021 as Clean Energy Business Day in the state of Minnesota.
The proclamation coincides with the fifth annual Clean Energy Business Day at the Capitol (virtual this year) – an education and advocacy day for individuals and organizations working in the state’s energy efficiency and clean energy industry. Governor Walz has been a vocal clean energy champion, most recently championing a bill to achieve 100% carbon free energy by the year 2040.
“Amidst the backdrop of a global pandemic causing a 14 percent reduction in Minnesota’s energy efficiency and clean energy workforce, Minnesota’s clean energy businesses have shown their resilience continuing to build the state’s economy, adding new renewable electricity to the mix, creating sustainable buildings and delivering innovative approaches to decarbonizing our economy with solutions that are clean, reliable and affordable,” reads Governor Walz’s proclamation.
“Clean energy is a vibrant and innovative field that creates thousands of good-paying jobs, while decarbonizing our state and taking on climate change,” said Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. “When we invest in and prioritize clean energy, we are not only preserving the things we love most about Minnesota, we are building the future of our economy and environment.”
“Minnesota’s clean energy industry has strengthened the state’s economy by diversifying our energy mix while creating tens of thousands of family-sustaining jobs,” said Gregg Mast, Clean Energy Economy MN Executive Director. “Our industry is ready to deploy the innovation solutions needed to drive economic recovery and achieve Minnesota’s climate goals. Now is the time to ensure our state is signaling to the rest of the country that we are open for clean energy business. We can do this by passing bipartisan policies without delay – including strengthening our statewide efficiency standards, updating our building codes, and tackling carbon emissions across all sectors of our economy.” “Throughout the challenges of 2020 and the pandemic, Minnesota’s solar industry has proven its resiliency. Despite many obstacles, we have continued to work and grow rapidly. Increasingly, businesses and consumers are looking at solar and storage as a way to save money on their energy bills and strengthen their personal energy reliability,” said David Shaffer, Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA) Executive Director.
“We are thankful for Minnesota’s strong solar legislation that has allowed our industry to grow to its current state, but we must continue the momentum in order to provide more stable jobs for our citizens, and create an accelerated onset of fuel-free energy. Clean Energy Business Day shows that support for solar energy is a bipartisan issue. With the support of our state’s legislators, we have the opportunity to make lasting change for Minnesota and the nation.
"Wind and solar development has been a booming business for Minnesota over the past decade, putting thousands of Minnesotans to work in great-paying jobs and generating millions in local tax revenues," said Beth Soholt, Clean Grid Alliance Executive Director. "The cost of wind has declined 70% and solar prices have dropped 90% in the last decade. These cost declines have turned utilities and corporate and industrial companies into major players in driving the transition to a clean energy economy, but Minnesota's clean energy vision also requires focus on the grid. New high voltage transmission lines, upgrades to the distribution system, and storage will all play an important role in our ability to deliver our clean, low-cost, and reliable renewable energy."
"Now past the initial shock of the pandemic, energy consumers are looking for ways to manage costs through smart investments,” said Chris Duffrin, president of Center for Energy and Environment. “Passing critical energy efficiency legislation this year would help customers statewide better control their energy bills while creating new jobs for Minnesotans installing our next wave of efficient technologies.”
“Certified green buildings are a critical part of realizing a clean energy future. Through the use of LEED, LEED Zero and other green building programs, Minnesota’s building industry is already taking important steps that will help the state move in that direction,” said Sheri Brezinka, U.S. Green Building Council Regional Director. “The buildings and spaces we occupy have the power to impact both environmental and human health. When we commit to making these spaces more sustainable, we’re creating economic opportunities that we can improve the standard of living for everyone.”
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About Clean Energy Economy Minnesota (CEEM): CEEM is an industry-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit representing the business case for clean energy in Minnesota. CEEM provides a unified voice for clean energy business across the state. Our mission is to provide educational leadership, collaboration, and policy analysis that accelerates clean energy market growth and smart energy policies. Learn more at cleanenergyeconomymn.org.
About Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA): MnSEIA is a 501(c)(6) trade association that serves to move Minnesota solar forward as the voice of the Minnesota solar industry. Representing over one hundred-member companies, MnSEIA pursues its mission to grow solar energy industries as part of Minnesota’s clean energy transition by delivering strong public policy, education, job creation and sustainable industry development. This is done through active engagements at the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, the Minnesota Legislature, and in various agency matters. Find out more at www.mnseia.org.
About Clean Grid Alliance (CGA): Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries. Learn more at cleangridalliance.org.
About Center for Energy and the Environment (CEE): Center for Energy and Environment is a clean energy nonprofit with special expertise in energy efficiency that stretches back nearly 40 years. CEE provides a range of practical and cost-effective energy solutions for homes, businesses, and communities to strengthen the economy while improving the environment. Learn more at mncee.org
About U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC): USGBC is committed to a prosperous and sustainable future through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. USGBC works toward its mission of market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, an international network of local community leaders, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Center for Green Schools and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. Learn more at usgbc.org.
Clean Grid Alliance Applauds MISO for Comprehensive RIIA Study; More Work Ahead
Clean Grid Alliance Applauds MISO for Comprehensive RIIA Study; More Work Ahead
ST. PAUL, MINN. (March 3, 2021) – At a workshop today, the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) presented a final report and key findings from its Renewable Integration Impact Assessment (RIIA), a years-long study of the impact of increasing renewable energy in the MISO footprint. The study evaluated the addition of renewable energy at various penetration levels - up to 50% - to identify challenges that may emerge in transmission, markets and operations, and offered potential solutions to remedy them.
“We commend MISO for their excellent comprehensive study and we appreciate the foresight MISO has had in getting ahead of the issues before they become problems,” said Clean Grid Alliance Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Renewable energy is here to stay, so putting forward a report that includes a number of next steps and further research that will help chart a course for further development of renewable energy in the Midwest and is just what we need. Clean Grid Alliance is excited to be a partner in figuring out these really tough challenges. We need MISO to be a leader because incremental change alone in transmission, markets and operations will not get us to the net-zero goals announced by many utilities. We need bold action, and call on MISO and its members to provide a grid that can reliably add the new resources needed to significantly reduce carbon intensity in the Midcontinent.”
Clean Grid Alliance was particularly pleased to see that achieving 50 percent renewable energy on the MISO system is not insurmountable, although the study indicated a significant amount of transmission in the north and western portions of the MISO footprint is needed. “Wind and solar developers are being asked to develop projects for utilities as well as corporate and industrial customers who are anxious to deliver low-cost clean energy to their customers and reduce their carbon footprint at the same time,” said Soholt. The Midwest has excellent wind and solar resources, but is lacking adequate transmission to deliver them. On the heels of the massive power outages in Texas, questions about how much renewable energy the system can handle has prompted even more questions. “Whether the system ‘breaks’ at 30 percent renewables is not the right question,” said Soholt. “MISO has done a great job identifying what needs to be done to prepare for the generation shift that is already underway, and we urge them to implement the solutions as quickly as possible.”
Among the important conclusions identified in the study are:
- More flexible resources will be needed, as well as market products and incentives for existing and future gas and storage and even renewables to offer their flexibility;
- More transmission and other emerging technologies will be needed to provide a stable grid capable of delivering power where it is needed; and
- The region needs to move forward expeditiously to address these issues in a timely manner.
CGA commends MISO for already beginning this work with the Long-Range Transmission Planning effort, the Resource Availability and Need effort, and the recent Reliability Imperative report. More work and coordination with all stakeholders will be needed as the region continues to prepare for the generation shift.
Clean Grid Alliance encourages MISO to further study how storage and hybrid resources can help provide solutions to ramping, weak grid issues, and to reduce the overall need for transmission. “This is a one-step-at-a-time process, but time is of the essence. Technical work is needed to first ensure the grid remains flexible, reliable, and resilient as we add new resources,” said Soholt.
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Clean Grid Alliance (CGA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., whose mission is to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Launched in 2001, CGA has been an active stakeholder in the MISO process at the state and regional levels. CGA’s membership includes industry representatives working in wind, solar and storage as well as environmental nonprofit organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups, and businesses providing goods and services to the renewable energy industry who come together to reduce carbon and deliver a renewable energy future. Learn more at cleangridalliance.org.
2020
21st Century Energy Task Force Strikes the Right Balance on Future Energy Policy for Indiana
21st Century Energy Task Force Strikes the Right Balance on Future Energy Policy for Indiana
INDIANAPOLIS (November 19, 2020) – Clean Grid Alliance applauds several recommendations put forth by the 21st Century Energy Policy Development Task Force in the report it finalized today. The Task Force set the direction of Indiana’s electricity future based on testimony from numerous stakeholders provided during 10 meetings held over two years. A large focus of the report is the state’s pathway to using more renewable energy resources. Clean Grid Alliance (CGA) applauds the Task Force's recommendations for legislation to standardize property tax assessments and siting requirements for utility-scale renewable resources, and to create transmission infrastructure plans beneficial for Indiana.
“This is a very positive report for renewable resources and Indiana. It’s clear that the Task Force understood the barriers to utility-scale renewable development in Indiana and acted on the proactive steps CGA and its members recommended,” said Clean Grid Alliance Executive Director Beth Soholt. “The recommendations in the report will allow Indiana electric customers and utilities to access home grown renewable energy resources by putting the state on a path to overcome the barriers preventing renewable energy development in the state. The recommendations will also allow Indiana to leverage the state's manufacturing capabilities, and communities to receive the benefits of developing renewable projects, including jobs, economic development and tax revenue.”
Clean Grid Alliance spoke at five of the 10 Task Force hearings, which took place from August 2019 through November 2020. CGA’s member companies Invenergy LLC, EDP Renewables, EDF Renewables, and American Wind Energy Association also made five presentations over three Task Force hearings. Among its presentations, CGA recommended the Task Force:
- state that it is in Indiana’s interest to have a policy that provides certainty and stability around siting standards used for utility-scale wind and solar;
- have a policy or statewide rate for utility-scale solar resource property taxes so there is certainty and stability and ensure those property taxes are competitive with those of neighboring states; and
- encourage the state to have policies and a forward-looking plan to foster transmission to be built in time for new generation and ensure resource adequacy.
Indiana’s strong utility-scale wind and solar energy resources have resulted in nearly $5 billion in capital investment in the state. This development not only delivers low-cost, renewable energy, but also $14 million in state and local tax payments annually, and an additional $5-$10 million in direct payments to landowners who have chosen to lease their farmland to host energy infrastructure.
“The number one deterrent to renewable energy development in Indiana right now are the overly burdensome ordinances for wind development we see in 34 counties,” said Sean Brady, CGA’s Senior Counsel and Regional Policy Manager-East who has actively participated with the Task Force on behalf of the organization. These restrictive ordinances are preventing the development of renewable energy that strengthens the state’s energy independence. They have also caused Indiana to lose $6-$7 billion in potential capital investment in the last few years and the substantial property tax revenue to the state and local governments. “The state’s current patchwork of zoning regulations are based on hype and misinformation instead of facts and scientific evidence. The report’s recommendations would lead to a stable, predictable business climate for utility-scale renewable resources to meet the plans of Indiana utilities and provide low stable prices for electricity consumers,” said Brady.
According to MISO and PJM data, there is in excess of 29,000 megawatts of wind and solar projects looking to build in Indiana. Indiana utilities are accelerating their transition toward a cleaner energy system, a trend made clear in their recent integrated resource plans that call for approximately 9,300 megawatts of new renewable energy capacity by 2030, and approximately 14,450 megawatts by 2040. This presents a significant economic opportunity for rural host communities as well as ratepayers who will see savings in their pocketbooks as more low-cost energy enters the energy marketplace.
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Clean Grid Alliance (CGA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., whose mission is to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Launched in 2001 as Wind on the Wires, Clean Grid Alliance was rebranded in 2018 to better reflect the growth of the renewable energy industry and its members who are working in wind, solar and storage. CGA has been an active stakeholder in the MISO process for the past 19 years, working at both the state and regional levels. CGA is unique in its membership which includes industry representatives as well as environmental nonprofit organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups, and businesses providing goods and services to the wind, solar and storage industries who all come together to reduce carbon and deliver a renewable energy future. Learn more at cleangridalliance.org.
Clean Grid Alliance Presents Leadership and Innovation Award to Great River Energy
Clean Grid Alliance Presents Leadership and Innovation Award to Great River Energy
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Clean Energy Groups Applaud MISO/SPP Moving Forward on Needed Transmission Development
Clean Energy Groups Applaud MISO/SPP Moving Forward on Needed Transmission Development
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Washington D.C. (September 14, 2020) – The American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), along with regional partners Clean Grid Alliance (CGA) and Advanced Power Alliance (APA), applaud the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) and Southwest Power Pool (SPP) for agreeing to move forward on a significant joint transmission planning effort on the seam between their two footprints. The two Regional Transmission Organizations today announced a joint transmission planning initiative to identify transmission projects that provide value to customers located in areas near their seam. This initiative will lead to consumer savings, greater reliability, and increased access to existing low-cost, clean, renewable resources, as well as resources in the interconnection queues of both regions. AWEA Central Region Electricity and Transmission Director Daniel Hall, CGA Executive Director Beth Soholt, and APA Senior Vice President for Infrastructure and Markets Steve Gaw today issued the following joint statement on the MISO/SPP announcement: “This joint effort by MISO and SPP could be a gamechanger and is a new milestone in coordination between them, their Boards and executive leadership, and state regulators and other stakeholders. Working together, the two Regional Transmission Organizations can enable and expedite needed transmission development on their seam and address related generation interconnection challenges. Transmission is a critical component of developing wind and other renewable energy resources and delivering clean, affordable power where and when it is needed most. Coordinated transmission planning will allow consumers across the country to harness the economic and environmental benefits of renewable energy. This forward-thinking partnership includes an aggressive, but achievable timeline and we pledge to provide any assistance necessary to support this effort. Our organizations have been advocating on these issues for some time through the stakeholder process and we are hopeful today’s action will be part of a broader concerted effort to modernize and strengthen the national grid for the benefit of consumers.” MEDIA INTERVIEWS: To set up interviews on this issue contact: o For Daniel Hall, please contact Sam Brock (sbrock@awea.org). o For Beth Soholt, please contact Kelley Welf (kwelf@cleangridalliance.org). o For Steve Gaw, please contact Sarah Pettus (sarah@poweralliance.org). #### AWEA is the national trade association for the U.S. wind industry, the largest source of renewable energy in the country. We represent 1,000 member companies, 120,000 jobs in the U.S. economy, and a nationwide workforce located across all 50 states. AWEA serves as a powerful voice for how wind works for America. Members include global leaders in wind power and energy development, turbine manufacturing, and component and service suppliers. They gather each year at the Western Hemisphere’s most efficient and targeted event for utility-scale renewable companies, the AWEA CLEANPOWER Conference & Exhibition, next in Indianapolis, June 7-10, 2021. An outgrowth of the AWEA WINDPOWER Conference & Exhibition, CLEANPOWER is the first trade show focused exclusively on the utility-scale renewable power sector, bringing together all the major developers, utilities, OEMs, suppliers, and buyers under one roof. Visit AWEA’s website to learn more about the enormous economic benefits wind power brings to America and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn. Clean Grid Alliance (CGA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., whose mission is to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Launched in 2001 as Wind on the Wires, Clean Grid Alliance was rebranded in 2018 to better reflect the growth of the renewable energy industry and its members who are working in wind, solar and storage. CGA has been an active stakeholder in the MISO process for the past 19 years, working at both the state and regional levels. CGA is unique in its membership which includes industry representatives as well as environmental nonprofit organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups, and businesses providing goods and services to the wind, solar and storage industries who all come together to reduce carbon and deliver a renewable energy future. Learn more at cleangridalliance.org. The Advanced Power Alliance is the industry trade association created to promote the development of wind, solar and energy storage as resources that can deliver clean, reliable, affordable power for American consumers. Through its advocacy programs, APA works to expand transmission capacity, to increase the use of renewable generation and energy storage within the region, and to facilitate export of this abundant power to customers around the United States. APA is leading efforts to defend regulatory, tax, and siting policies that are “technology neutral” and treat renewable energy developments equitably. APA is a business alliance of advanced energy companies and is focused on issues that affect its members’ bottom lines. APA delivers its members timely and actionable information from state legislatures and regulatory agencies while aggressively lobbying the key issues affecting the future of clean power development in our region. Learn more about us at PowerAlliance.org.
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Clean Grid Alliance and Iowa Environmental Council Applaud Approval of Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line
Clean Grid Alliance and Iowa Environmental Council Applaud Approval of Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line
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Clean Grid Alliance Applauds Great River Energy’s Closure of Coal Creek; Addition of Wind and Storage
Clean Grid Alliance Applauds Great River Energy’s Closure of Coal Creek; Addition of Wind and Storage
ST. PAUL, MINN. (May 7, 2020) – Today, Great River Energy announced major changes to their power supply portfolio, including the closure of Coal Creek Station, the largest coal-fired power plant in North Dakota and addition of wind and storage.
As a regional organization that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest, Clean Grid Alliance Executive Director Beth Soholt responded, saying:
“We applaud Great River Energy’s bold announcement today and their leadership on reducing carbon in Minnesota. We are thrilled that they are charting a course with clean low-cost renewables like many other utilities across the Midwest and the nation. We extend kudos to CEO and President David Saggau and his team, the GRE board, and co-op members for developing and approving this bold vision. Clean Grid Alliance looks forward to supporting GRE to help them achieve their goals.
“The one megawatt long-duration battery with Form Energy is an exciting step forward in advancing GRE’s generation shift and providing the services GRE needs. We look forward to learning from this “first-of-its-kind” deployment in the Midwest.”
According to Lazard Levelized Cost of Energy report, wind and solar are the cheapest sources of new electricity generation in the Midwest. Wind and solar costs have declined dramatically in the past decade, with the cost of wind energy down 70 percent, and solar costs have plunged 88 percent since 2009.
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Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind, solar and storage developers, environmental organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups, and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries. Learn more at cleangridalliance.org.
Governor Walz declares March 4 as ‘Clean Energy Business Day’
Governor Walz declares March 4 as ‘Clean Energy Business Day’
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Date:
March 4, 2020
Contact:
Amelia Cerling
Hennes
ahennes@cleanenergyeconomymn.org | 507.251.5140
Governor Walz declares March 4 as ‘Clean Energy Business Day’
Clean energy industry shows up in big numbers at State Capitol
ST. PAUL, MINN. – As the clean energy transition accelerates across the country, Governor Tim Walz highlighted the significance of Minnesota’s clean energy business community and its many contributions to the state. Today he delivered a proclamation that declares March 4, 2020 as Clean Energy Business Day in the state of Minnesota.
The proclamation coincides with the fourth annual Clean Energy Business Day at the Capitol – an education and advocacy day for individuals and organizations working in the state’s energy efficiency and clean energy industry. Governor Walz has been a vocal clean energy champion, touting the, “One Minnesota Path to Clean Energy” – a bill that calls for 100% clean energy by the year 2050.
“Minnesota’s nation-leading clean energy policies have set the table for innovators, entrepreneurs and businesses to make clean energy thrive; helping decarbonize our state as they create jobs and grow our economy,” reads Governor Walz’s proclamation. “Minnesota is home to 61,047 clean energy jobs. Clean energy encompasses thriving business sectors that are critical to the health and economic growth of our state and its citizens.”
“Minnesota is a land of crystal-clear lakes and rivers, fertile farmland, and clean air – but all of these things are threatened by climate change,” said Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan. “By investing in and prioritizing clean energy, we are not only preserving the things we love about Minnesota, we are building a brighter economic and environmental future for generations to come.”
“Minnesota is known as a national leader in setting and achieving clean energy goals,” said Commerce Commissioner Steve Kelley, whose agency administers the state’s energy policies and programs. “These policies not only ensure reliable, affordable and sustainable electricity for Minnesota. They also give us a cleaner, healthier environment and a strong clean energy economy throughout the state.”
“Over the last decade,
Minnesota workers and businesses have made incredible gains both in developing
and deploying clean energy solutions as well as advancing the conversation
about why growing this industry is good for our state,” said Gregg Mast, Clean Energy Economy MN Executive
Director. “In the last six years, renewables output has risen 37 percent –
and now clean energy accounts for a full quarter of our state’s electricity
generation. But we also know that’s not enough. We’re here at the Capitol to
say ambitious policies will deliver even more jobs, investment, and economic
opportunities for Minnesotans throughout the state.”
"We're excited to see the huge
progress Minnesota has made in advancing clean energy, particularly in solar
energy,” said David Shaffer, Minnesota Solar
Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA) Executive Director. “In 2019, solar
installer was the fastest growing job in our state. We know that by working
together with legislators, we can deploy more solar, add more jobs and create a
stronger clean energy economy in Minnesota.
“Wind and solar development has been a booming business for Minnesota over the past decade, putting thousands of Minnesotans to work in great-paying jobs," said Beth Soholt, Clean Grid Alliance Executive Director. "The cost of wind has declined 69% during this time, and solar prices have declined 88%. These cost declines have turned utilities and corporate and industrial companies into major players in driving the transition to a clean energy economy, but Minnesota's clean energy vision also requires focus on the grid. New high voltage transmission lines, upgrades to the distribution system, and storage will all play an important role in our ability to deliver our clean, low-cost, and reliable renewable energy."
“We are thrilled to rejoin our partners for Clean Energy Business Day at the Capitol. It’s important for us to recognize the role green buildings play in advancing a clean energy economy that supports the health of Minnesota’s environment, economy and communities,” said Sheri Brezinka, U.S. Green Building Council Regional Director. “Minnesota is a leader in green building and the state’s more than 470 LEED-certified buildings are examples of how the spaces we use every day can be tools for promoting more efficient and sustainable energy. We applaud the leadership shown here today by everyone who is helping to create a more sustainable future for us all.”
"Three out of four jobs in the clean energy sector are energy efficiency jobs," explained Chris Duffrin, president of the Center for Energy and Environment. "Updating and constructing new buildings with energy efficient materials and equipment saves customers money and creates jobs in HVAC, construction, engineering, insulation, and more — all inherently local jobs that can’t be exported. It’s crucial that local workers statewide benefit from Minnesota's clean energy transition, and we're supportive of several pending bills that underscore the importance of career opportunities for local workers and local businesses."
To learn more about the different types of clean energy jobs in Minnesota, watch and read the Names Behind the Numbers | Minnesota profile series.
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About Clean Energy Economy Minnesota (CEEM): CEEM is an industry-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit representing the business case for clean energy in Minnesota. CEEM provides a unified voice for clean energy business across the state. Our mission is to provide educational leadership, collaboration, and policy analysis that accelerates clean energy market growth and smart energy policies. Learn more at cleanenergyeconomymn.org.
About Clean Grid Alliance (CGA): Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries. Learn more at cleangridalliance.org.
About U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC): USGBC is committed to a prosperous and sustainable future through cost-efficient and energy-saving green buildings. USGBC works toward its mission of market transformation through its LEED green building program, robust educational offerings, an international network of local community leaders, the annual Greenbuild International Conference & Expo, the Center for Green Schools and advocacy in support of public policy that encourages and enables green buildings and communities. Learn more at usgbc.org.
About Minnesota Solar Energy Industries Association (MnSEIA): MnSEIA is a 501(c)(6) trade association that serves to move Minnesota solar forward as the voice of the Minnesota solar industry. Representing over one hundred-member companies, MnSEIA pursues its mission to grow solar energy industries as part of Minnesota’s clean energy transition by delivering strong public policy, education, job creation and sustainable industry development. This is done through active engagements at the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission, the Minnesota Legislature, and in various agency matters. Find out more at www.mnseia.org.
About Center for Energy and the Environment (CEE): Center for Energy and Environment is a clean energy nonprofit with special expertise in energy efficiency that stretches back nearly 40 years. CEE provides a range of practical and cost-effective energy solutions for homes, businesses, and communities to strengthen the economy while improving the environment. Learn more at mncee.org
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2019
CGA Statement on: Wisconsin Public Service Commission Decision on Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line
CGA Statement on: Wisconsin Public Service Commission Decision on Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line
ST. PAUL, MINN. (August 20, 2019) - Today, the Wisconsin Public Service Commission issued its preliminary decision on the Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line to grant a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN). Cardinal-Hickory Creek is a 345 kV transmission line connecting northeast Iowa and southwestern Wisconsin and will support a growing renewable energy production area in the Upper Midwest.
Clean Grid Alliance issued the following statement:
"On behalf of our NGO members who are working on carbon reduction across the Midwest and industry members who are developing utility-scale wind and solar energy projects, we applaud the Wisconsin Public Service Commission for supporting the Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line," said Clean Grid Alliance Executive Director Beth Soholt. "The demand for more renewable energy is palpable and the Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line will provide the ability to access and deliver renewables. We are seeing an ever-increasing stream of state governments, utilities, and corporations announcing plans for more renewable energy because of its low cost and environmental benefits. Our members are ready to fulfill their needs. We are grateful to the Commission for recognizing that more transmission is necessary in order to deliver the clean energy future everyone wants. Cardinal-Hickory Creek will also strengthen the grid and provide congestion relief for an efficient energy market in Wisconsin and the surrounding states."
Today's decision represents the preliminary decision of the Public Service Commission. The Commission will issue a final written order by September 30. There is a segment of the Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line in Iowa. The Iowa Utilities Board will hear that case in December.
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Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
Xcel Energy, labor, and clean energy groups reach consensus on proposal to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy
Xcel Energy, labor, and clean energy groups reach consensus on proposal to accelerate the transition to a clean energy economy
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Kevin Pranis, kpranis@liunagroc.com, 612-224-6464
Multiple Groups Line Up to Support Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line for its Economic and Environmental Benefits
Multiple Groups Line Up to Support Cardinal-Hickory Creek Transmission Line for its Economic and Environmental Benefits
ST. PAUL, MINN. (April 26, 2019) – Today, direct testimony was filed with the Wisconsin Public Service Commission in the Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line case (Case # 5-CE-146). A group of clean energy organizations (CEOs) are a Party to the case, support the line, and are sponsoring several expert witnesses. Expert witnesses include technical witness Michael Goggin, Grid Strategies and renewables developer Chad Craven, Savion, LLC. The Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy represents the CEOs.
The Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line is a needed addition to the Midwest electric grid that will deliver multiple benefits. The new transmission line will help facilitate the Midwest’s transition to clean, renewable energy while offering reliability, energy security, and enabling an economic wholesale power market. The project will reduce congestion, improve access to new, economic wind and solar projects, and reduce curtailment from operating wind farms. The cost of wind has fallen 66 percent since 2009, and solar costs have plummeted 85 percent over the same time period. In addition, the line will deliver approximately $22 million to $349 million in economic benefits.
The Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission Line is the final Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) Multi-Value Project (MVP) to move through the state regulatory approval process. MISO filings at FERC continue to show benefits of the MVP portfolio far in excess of the cost of the projects and well above the benefits originally projected. Individually, this transmission line is projected to save approximately $151 million by eliminating the need to upgrade 13 other lower-voltage transmission projects. MISO has determined that no other transmission alternative will be as cost-effective as this project in connecting Northwestern Iowa with Southeastern and south central Wisconsin. MISO also concluded that non-transmission alternatives are not feasible.
“Clean Grid Alliance is glad to be representing our industry members who are developing renewable energy projects in Wisconsin and surrounding states and have MISO Interconnection Agreements that require Cardinal-Hickory Creek to deliver energy from their projects,” said CGA Executive Director Beth Soholt. “The new transmission line is a critical piece of infrastructure that will not only facilitate renewable energy development, but will provide additional robustness to the electric grid. There are thousands of megawatts of new wind and solar that are depending on Cardinal-Hickory Creek, as well as existing wind projects that cannot deliver their full output due to lack of transmission capacity. This is the last line of the MVP portfolio. Plans have been made based on the expectation that this line would be built. Upsetting the apple cart at this critical time would be a devastating blow to the industry, and will increase overall costs because it simply delays the inevitable.”
“The clean energy economy we are moving towards requires next-generation transmission lines, like the Cardinal-Hickory Creek project. Energy efficiency and distributed generation alone will not get us to the carbon-free economy our region needs and which a changing climate demands,” said Fresh Energy Senior Director of Energy Markets and Regulatory Affairs Allen Gleckner. “In addition to rooftop solar and energy efficiency measures, we will also need a significant portion of our electricity from large-scale wind and solar. Clean energy transmission, like Cardinal-Hickory Creek, is critical to connecting the thousands of megawatts of large-scale wind and solar in the development pipeline in Wisconsin and throughout the Upper Midwest.”
“As a $500 million investment, the Cardinal-Hickory Creek transmission line will be a wide-ranging employment and economic development opportunity for Wisconsin, with stable, family-supporting wages in our community and throughout the Upper Midwest. Moreover, the project will provide much needed transmission stability and allow Wisconsin to access low-cost renewable energy from western states,” said Terry McGowan, President and Business Manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers Local 139. “The Wisconsin Operating Engineers are looking forward to the broad economic benefits this transmission line will have for our state and region.”
The Cardinal-Hickory Creek project will facilitate the supply of clean, low-cost electric energy while simultaneously increasing reliability. “Those are exactly the types of considerations Wisconsin law requires,” said Amelia Vohs, Staff Attorney at Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy. “That's why the PSC should approve this project.”
# # #
About Clean Grid
Alliance (CGA): Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3)
nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance
renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind, solar, and
storage developers, environmental organizations, public interest groups, clean
energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to
the wind, solar, and storage industries.
Contact:
Kelley Welf
kwelf@cleangridalliance.org | 651-644-3400
About Fresh Energy: Fresh Energy is an independent, nonprofit,
policy organization working to speed Minnesota’s transition to a clean energy
economy, which will ensure that our region enjoys good health, a vibrant
economy, and thriving communities today and for generations to come.
Contact:
Caley Long
long@fresh-energy.org | 651 726
7569
About Operating Engineers Local 139: Established in 1902, Operating Engineers
Local 139 is a statewide trade union that primarily represents skilled
Operators of heavy construction equipment and mechanics who service the
machines. The union has more than 10,000 active and retired members and is
headquartered in Pewaukee. Local 139 also maintains district offices in
Madison, Appleton and Altoona, as well as a state-certified training school for
Operating Engineers in Coloma. For more information, please go to www.iuoe139.org.
Contact:
Roger Putnam
262.899.1316
About Minnesota Center for
Environmental Advocacy: The Minnesota Center for
Environmental Advocacy is a nonprofit organization using law, science, and
research to protect Minnesota's natural resources, wildlife and the health of
its people. For more information, please go to www.mncenter.org.
Contact:
Aaron Klemz
763-788-0282
Lincoln County Sees 49% Increase in 2018 Wind Energy Production Tax Revenue
Lincoln County Sees 49% Increase in 2018 Wind Energy Production Tax Revenue
ST. PAUL, MINN. (April 9, 2019) – The Minnesota Department of Revenue Property Tax Division compiled the amount of wind energy production tax revenue that is paid to counties earlier this month. Lincoln County will receive more than $1.6 million in 2019 for 2018 production, reflecting a 49 percent increase over last year. This increase is due to the 200 megawatt Red Pine project that came online in 2017 and had a full year of operation in 2018.
Statewide, Lincoln County
now ranks third in the state for the amount of wind energy production tax
revenue, behind Mower County and Jackson County, respectively. Since 2004, Lincoln County has received $12.9
million in production tax revenue from wind projects. “Nearly 30 percent of the
counties in Minnesota receive wind energy production tax revenue,” said Clean
Grid Alliance Executive Director Beth Soholt. “It really makes a difference in
these small towns.”
Nationally, wind farms pay more than $1 billion annually to rural communities according to the American Wind Energy Association’s (AWEA) 2018 Annual Market Report. This massive financial investment reflects a combination of $761 million per year paid by wind farms in state and local taxes that may be used to help support schools systems, fix roads, invest in emergency services, and even hold down property taxes. Another $289 million annually is paid in wind farm land lease payments, which provides a valuable cash-crop for farmers and ranchers.
In Minnesota, more than $12 million in wind energy production tax revenue is going to counties that host wind farms this year. In addition, another $10 - $15 million was paid in land lease payments to landowners last year, according to AWEA. “Lincoln County is just one of hundreds of rural communities around the country that is benefiting from the development and growth of our renewable energy sector. Wind energy is a low-cost, clean, and reliable form of renewable energy that makes sense for Minnesota,” said Soholt.
# # #
About Clean Grid Alliance (CGA): Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind, solar, and storage developers, environmental organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind, solar, and storage industries.
CGA Statement on SOO GREEN Renewable Rail Line Transmission Plan
CGA Statement on SOO GREEN Renewable Rail Line Transmission Plan
ST. PAUL, MINN. (March 11, 2019) – Today, Direct Connect Development Company announced the SOO Green Renewable Rail project, a 349-mile, 2,100 megawatt, 525 KV underground high voltage direct current (HVDC) transmission line running from Mason City, Iowa to Plano, Illinois.
Clean Grid Alliance issued the following statement:
“The SOO Green Renewable Rail project represents an exciting new project and technology to deliver sought-after renewable energy. The project is evidence that the growth of renewables is driving innovation and companies are rising up to meet the demands of the energy marketplace,” said Clean Grid Alliance Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Clean Grid Alliance has worked for over a decade to reform MISO market rules to allow new players and emerging technologies the opportunity to provide value to electric customers. The SOO Green Renewable Rail transmission project is uniquely situated geographically to deliver our Midwest renewable energy to customers in the Eastern Interconnect, fulfilling important grid needs and providing clean, renewable energy that continues to be in high demand.
“Although the cost of wind and solar projects has fallen 69% in the last 10 years and no technological breakthroughs are needed to produce very economical projects, lack of adequate transmission capacity continues to be a barrier to renewable development. The cable technology the SOO Green project will use and the ability to locate the line along existing railroad easements and underground is a game changer,” said Soholt. “This is indeed a very exciting development and we look forward to harnessing additional Midwest wind for delivery on the SOO Green transmission line.
# # #
About Clean Grid Alliance (CGA): Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind, solar, and storage developers, environmental organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind, solar, and storage industries.
Renewable Energy Developers Stand Ready to Help Minnesota Achieve New Clean Energy Milestones
Renewable Energy Developers Stand Ready to Help Minnesota Achieve New Clean Energy Milestones
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2018
CGA Statement on Xcel Energy’s Announcement to Reduce Carbon Emissions 100 percent by 2050
CGA Statement on Xcel Energy’s Announcement to Reduce Carbon Emissions 100 percent by 2050
ST. PAUL, MINN. (December 4, 2018) - On Tuesday, Xcel Energy announced a plan to reduce carbon emissions from its electric generation by 80 percent by 2030. The announcement also includes a bold but doable goal of zero carbon emissions across the company's footprint by 2050.
"Xcel Energy has a history of being forward-thinking and this ground-breaking announcement to achieve 100 percent carbon-free energy by 2050 should be commended," said Beth Soholt, Executive Director of Clean Grid Alliance. "Clean Grid Alliance and our members have worked closely with Xcel over the last decade to bring affordable and reliable clean energy to market and we look forward to assisting Xcel Energy in achieving this landmark initiative."
Xcel Energy, headquartered in Minneapolis, serves customers in Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Colorado, New Mexico and Texas. "It is an exciting time to be involved in the renewable energy industry and we applaud Xcel Energy for their national leadership in reducing carbon emissions," said Soholt.
# # #
Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
Wind on the Wires Announces Its New Name - Clean Grid Alliance
Wind on the Wires Announces Its New Name - Clean Grid Alliance
Minnesota Energy Storage Alliance to Become a New Program
ST. PAUL, MINN. (September 19, 2018) - Wind on the Wires, a regional authority on wind energy policy, transmission planning, and renewable energy advocacy in the Upper Midwest, has re-branded and is now "Clean Grid Alliance."
"Rebranding was a necessary, thoughtful and deep dive into the essence of our brand attributes and our core work areas," said Beth Soholt, Executive Director of the new Clean Grid Alliance. "As our members have evolved into developing solar and energy storage projects in addition to wind, we grew right along with them. However, our name did not reflect our expanded service offerings. We felt it was important for our name to better represent the full scope of our organization." Clean Grid Alliance works on wind, solar and energy storage policy, regulatory proceedings, transmission work and public education about the benefits of renewable energy in the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) footprint.
"Although Wind on the Wires is a much-loved name and logo, which has served us very well for the past 17 years, it's time to move forward with a name that encapsulates our work and our vision, and helps us better connect with potential new members and funders. After much reflection, and a very deliberate process, we felt 'Clean Grid Alliance' best captured the work we do and the partnerships that we develop with our members and colleague organizations to achieve our purpose of 'delivering Midwest renewable energy,'" said Soholt.
Members and friends of Wind on the Wires were the first to learn about the rebrand during the "Wake-up with WOW" breakfast event on September 11. The breakfast event featured a panel of the CEOs from the wind, solar and storage industry associations who were on stage together for the first time. The industry CEOs highlighted how they are working together to capture the "energy future." Also during that event, Ellen Anderson, Executive Director of the Energy Transition Lab at the University of Minnesota announced to the capacity-crowd that the Minnesota Energy Storage Alliance (MESA) would become a program of Clean Grid Alliance. "We agreed that for MESA to grow and prosper as a strong organization and voice for energy storage development, it was time to take MESA to a more permanent and appropriate home outside the University," said Anderson. "The multiple technologies in the energy grid of the future that the Clean Grid Alliance serves, and the great track record of engaging its membership in meaningful and impactful ways, ensures MESA will be able to formalize its structure, grow its membership and capacity, and provide more opportunities for member action and involvement," she said.
"We look forward to taking on the energy storage work, which will be a part of a transition to a clean energy economy and integral to our goal of delivering Midwest renewable energy," said Soholt.
# # #
Clean Grid Alliance is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
Minnesota Among Midwest States Experiencing Significant Job Growth in Renewable Energy Sector
Minnesota Among Midwest States Experiencing Significant Job Growth in Renewable Energy Sector
New case studies find hiring by leading local employers up over the last five years
ST. PAUL, MINN., (September 11, 2018) – The State of Minnesota and local companies have experienced impressive job growth because of the national increase in renewable energy. Leaders from the American wind, solar, and energy storage industries joined local companies to share impressive job growth data at a press conference today in St. Paul. Minnesota-based companies Mortenson and Ulteig Engineers have added more than 1,600 jobs in their renewable energy divisions and job growth in the State has been energized due to strong national demand for services including engineering, construction and manufacturing, according to new case studies released at the press conference by the Wind Energy Foundation’s “A Renewable America” campaign.
“The Midwest is a bright spot for renewable energy development, and that translates to jobs,” said Beth Soholt, Executive Director, Wind on the Wires. “Minnesota’s strong support of renewables is driving robust jobs and economic growth, making the state a national leader. And, that’s something we should be proud of.”
Minnesota is poised to be a national leader in the advancement of renewable energy. Home to over 180 companies working in the wind, solar, and storage industries, over 8,700 Minnesotan jobs are now supported by these technologies alone, according to the report.
“Hearing about the great success that companies like Mortenson and Ulteig, and the many other companies in Minnesota that support renewable energy are having, is very gratifying. The renewable energy sector has done a lot to diversify our economy and provide excellent job opportunities for Minnesotans,” said Sen. David Senjem.
“We are pleased to be a part of Minnesota’s growing renewable energy economy,” said Brent Bergland, general manager at Mortenson. “We have experienced a significant five-year growth trend in renewable energy jobs, and we are anticipating continued expansion of jobs in this sector in 2019 and beyond.”
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, solar installer and wind turbine technician are projected as the fastest growing job categories through 2026. A recent report by the Minneapolis-based McKnight Foundation found the state could create an additional 44,000 jobs in the wind and solar industries by 2050.
“Ulteig’s commitment to renewables has grown significantly since we developed our first wind project in 1998,” said Doug Jaeger, President, and CEO of Ulteig. “Over the last five years we have increased the number of employees supporting the market by 150 percent, and we expect to nearly double the number of wind and solar projects we complete this year compared to last.”
Jobs in renewable energy extend far beyond construction and maintenance jobs. Engineers, lawyers, financial analysts, manufacturers, and many others make up the renewable energy supply chain in Minnesota and beyond. The recent growth of renewable energy, both within the state and nationwide, was highlighted in remarks from the CEOs of the leading national wind, solar, and energy storage associations attending the event.
“SEIA members in Minnesota have led a trend in the creation of thousands of jobs in the Midwest, in what last year was America’s fastest growing solar market,” said Abigail Ross Hopper, president, and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association. "Minnesota shows how quickly the solar industry can bring clean energy and jobs to a state with the right policies."
Kelly Speakes-Backman, CEO, Energy Storage Association, explained that the growth of storage enables new and broader opportunities for a cleaner supply mix. “Storage supports all forms of generation, and is particularly adept at facilitating grid capabilities to integrate more clean resources,” said Speakes-Backman. “Energy storage is an enabling technology. As it increases the flexibility of the electric system, energy storage technologies foster an efficient, resilient, sustainable, and affordable energy system.”
“We have a record amount of wind power under construction in America today,” said Tom Kiernan, CEO of AWEA. “With wind energy construction and engineering firms like Blattner, Mortenson, and Ulteig, Minnesota will ride the wave of economic activity and job creation that accompanies this unprecedented level of wind farm construction.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory matters, as well as through education and public outreach.
About Ulteig
Ulteig delivers comprehensive design engineering, program management and technical and field services that strengthen infrastructure vital to everyday life. Ulteig connects people and resources to develop compelling, integrated solutions across multiple Lifeline Sectors®, including power, renewables, transportation and water. Ulteig’s footprint spans the country and leverages its expertise with a wide range of public and private clients.
Learn more at www.Ulteig.com.
About Mortenson
Mortenson is a U.S.-based, top-20 builder, developer and provider of energy and engineering services committed to helping organizations move their strategies forward. Mortenson’s expanding portfolio of integrated services ensures that its customers’ investments result in high-performing assets. The result is a turnkey partner, fully invested in the business success of its customers.
Founded in 1954, Mortenson has operations across North America with offices in Chicago, Denver, Fargo, Iowa City, Milwaukee, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Portland, San Antonio, Seattle, Washington, D.C., and in Canada. For additional information, visit www.mortenson.com.
Media Contacts:
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Kelley A. Welf, Wind on the Wires |
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651-644-3400 x13 |
Craig Davies, Ulteig
651-261-0882
craig.davies@ulteig.com
Cameron Snyder, Mortenson
763.287.5493
cameron.snyder@mortenson.com
County Planning and Zoning Committee Moves Toward a De Facto Ban On Wind Energy
County Planning and Zoning Committee Moves Toward a De Facto Ban On Wind Energy
Zoning restrictions would block more than $40 million in new tax revenue from proposed project
DeKalb, IL, (August 7, 2018) – Recent actions of the DeKalb County Planning and Zoning Committee are leading toward a ban on wind energy in the form of zoning restrictions that will make new wind energy facilities impossible. While not an outright ban, the committee has recommended standards that create an impossible siting environment, which has the effect of putting a moratorium on wind energy.
“When regulating industry, the job of governmental bodies is to balance the rights of landowners with common-sense ordinances that respect economic development opportunities that benefit the entire community,” said Beth Soholt, executive director of Wind on the Wires.
The standards proposed reflect a noise limit that is in most instances already exceeded by existing background noise created by cornfields, trees, farming equipment, automobile traffic and everyday breezes. Ken Kaliski, a noise control engineer at RSG Inc., said, “The proposed standard would prevent any wind development.” Soholt added, “There is no known technology that can remove existing noise from the atmosphere.”
The Committee has also recommended standards related to shadows, setbacks and decommissioning that have no precedent elsewhere in Illinois, or around the country, where a wind farm has been successfully developed.
“The wind industry wants to have a good relationship with the communities it invests in,” said Soholt. “It is in everyone’s best interest to have a mutually beneficial relationship. The industry has worked hard to establish best practices that balance a landowner’s right to make an honest living from his property and the benefits wind energy can bring to the entire community, with any disamenities this type of project may impose.”
A recent public opinion survey showed that 76 percent of county voters support building a new wind farm in the county.
The wind energy industry is well established, with more than 300,000 turbines worldwide, 50,000 in the United States and 20,000 in the Midwest. Millions of people are living and working comfortably around wind turbines. A 2012 Illinois Power Agency (IPA) report found that adding wind power to the electric grid reduced wholesale power prices by $176.8 million while also creating jobs and economic growth.
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
2017
Wind on the Wires Applauds PUC Decision to Allow Xcel Energy to Acquire More Wind Energy
Wind on the Wires Applauds PUC Decision to Allow Xcel Energy to Acquire More Wind Energy
Smart Investment; Customer Responsive:
Xcel’s investment in wind is a smart business decision that also benefits
consumers with clean, low-cost energy and
delivers economic benefits
region-wide
ST. PAUL, MINN. (July 7, 2017) – Yesterday, the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission unanimously approved Xcel Energy’s proposal to acquire more than 1,500 MW of wind energy.
In response, Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt said:
"We are pleased to see the Minnesota Public Utilities Commission give Xcel Energy the green light on their proposed acquisition of over 1500 MW of clean, cost-effective wind energy," said Beth Soholt, Executive Director of Wind on the Wires. "This unanimous vote by the PUC demonstrates not only that wind energy is a smart investment for ratepayers, but also that these projects will provide significant economic benefits throughout our region.
“This portfolio, which is being driven primarily by the economics of wind energy, reaffirms Xcel Energy's commitment to providing reliable, affordable clean energy to their customers."
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
Mower County Ranks First in Wind Energy Production Tax in 2016
Mower County Ranks First in Wind Energy Production Tax in 2016
Wind industry paid more than $12 million statewide in Wind Energy Production Taxes in 2016AUSTIN, MINN., (June 23, 2017) - Today, representatives from the wind industry and Xcel Energy presented a ceremonial check to Tim Gabrielson, Chairman of the Mower County Board of Commissioners, representing $2,373,932 in wind energy production tax revenue for 2016. This check represents the largest wind energy production tax payment made to any one county in the state, and is a 26.5% increase over last year's payment.
Statewide, revenue from the wind energy production tax exceeds $12 million. More than one-quarter of the counties in the state benefit from this source of revenue. "Minnesota is truly a leader in renewable energy in the Midwest and Mower County is reaping the benefits of that leadership. The county has received over $14.8 million in wind energy production tax payments since 2007," said Senator Dan Sparks. "That revenue helps our entire community because it helps keep the lid on property taxes, helps pay for road improvements, and supports community projects. We need to continue supporting wind energy development in Minnesota." Mower County welcomes wind. "More wind energy is produced in our county than anywhere else in the state, and that has been a good thing for Mower County," said Commission Board Chairman Tim Gabrielson. "Not only does this economic development benefit local landowners and businesses who have partnered in the wind projects, our entire community benefits from the production tax revenue received by our County. This last year, the county board committed $400,000 of the county portion of revenue from the wind energy production tax toward improving roads and bridges. We've used the remainder as a tax relief for citizens. Having this new revenue source from wind power reduces the amount of tax dollars that would be needed to be raised from taxpayers to pay for our county operations." Currently, Minnesota ranks in the Top 10 in the nation for installed wind capacity, and percent of total state electric generation from wind. Representative Jeanne Poppe added, "Wind energy is an important industry in Minnesota that will create many new jobs producing low-cost, clean energy right here at home. By 2020, Minnesota wind-related jobs could reach over 8,000." "The wind industry supports over 100,000 workers across the U.S. and in all states, including thousands here in Minnesota. Wind is home to the fastest growing job in the country and each turbine creates more than 30 jobs throughout the course of its life. It's really rewarding to be part of this thriving energy economy and part of an industry growing nine times faster than the overall U.S. economy," said David Easler, Vestas Senior Operations Manager, Upper Midwest. The wind industry has invested $6.8 billion into Minnesota's economy. With 3,499 megawatts of installed wind capacity, wind power now provides 17.7% of Minnesota's electricity. Another 906 megawatts of wind are under construction, or in advanced stages of development in Minnesota. "Wind energy is a true success story for Minnesota, providing investment, revenue, and jobs across the state" said Chris Kunkle, regional policy manager for Wind on the Wires. "The cost of wind energy has declined 66 percent over the past seven years, and utilities like Xcel Energy are passing those savings along to customers. This year, for the first time, the revenue from the Wind Energy Production Tax exceeds $12 million. Cumulatively, over the past 10 years, the wind industry has paid more than $78 million in production taxes. More than one-quarter of the counties in the state benefit from this revenue source, predominantly in Greater Minnesota where the jobs and economic development are needed most." # # # Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries. |
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Links and Resources Wind Delivers Tax Relief in Minnesota Wind Energy in Minnesota (American Wind Energy Association) Minnesota Clean Energy Economy Profile (2014) (MN Dept. Employment and Economic Development) |
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Public Utilities Commission Advances Cost Effective, Clean Energy for Minnesotans
Public Utilities Commission Advances Cost Effective, Clean Energy for Minnesotans
More wind, solar and energy savings on the way for Otter Tail Power Customers
Saint Paul, MINN. (March 16, 2017) – Today, the
Minnesota Public Utilities Commission (PUC) voted unanimously to approve a
modified version of Otter Tail Power Company’s (Otter Tail) 15-year resource
plan that includes significant investments in energy efficiency and renewable
energy (wind and solar power). The PUC’s decision draws on advocacy in the
proceeding by Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy, Fresh Energy, Sierra
Club and Wind on the Wires, who argued that Otter Tail’s plan had limited clean
energy investments despite clear benefits to customers. The PUC’s decision
affirms that additional clean energy investments are a good bet for customers.
Otter Tail’s resource plan as approved by the PUC includes:
- Confirmed retirement of the coal-fired Hoot Lake power plant by 2021
- The addition of up to 400 megawatts (MW) of wind energy by 2023 (200 MW more than originally proposed by Otter Tail)
- The addition of up to 30 MW of solar energy by 2020
- Energy efficiency savings targets equivalent to 1.6% annual energy savings
The Commission also approved up to 250 MW of peaking capacity in 2021, which Otter Tail Power plans to meet with a new natural gas plant, despite strong arguments during today’s hearing that Otter Tail had not adequately demonstrated that a gas plant is in the public interest. The gas plant is proposed to be built in either North or South Dakota--Otter Tail has not publicly revealed the location other than the fact that it will not be in Minnesota.
In response to the PUC decision, the Clean Energy Organizations released the following statements:
“We are pleased with the PUC’s decision to include additional clean energy in Otter Tail’s plan, which is something we’ve advocated for in this proceeding over the past 10 months, but we remain disappointed in the relatively shallow analysis of clean energy alternatives to Otter Tail’s proposed natural gas plant.” said Leigh Currie, Minnesota Center for Environmental Advocacy attorney representing Wind on the Wires, Sierra Club, and Fresh Energy. “Overall, however, this is a big win for Otter Tail’s customers and confirms that clean energy is the best choice.”
“We applaud Otter Tail Power Company for its commitment to adding clean energy resources to their system. The additional wind and solar resources will provide benefits to both Otter Tail’s customers and the communities that host the new projects. The company is a leader in the level of renewables it has on its system, given its total resource needs,” said Beth Soholt, Executive Director, Wind on the Wires.
“In the next few years, Otter Tail will be replacing its remaining Minnesota coal units with investments including greater energy savings for their customers, as well as wind and solar development that benefits communities in western Minnesota,” said J. Drake Hamilton, Science Policy Director, Fresh Energy.
“Today’s market has created tremendous opportunities for affordable and reliable clean energy, and Otter Tail Power customers will see significant benefits from the added wind, solar and energy efficiency.” said Jessica Tritsch, Senior Organizer, Sierra Club. “We are disappointed in Otter Tail Power’s plan to build a new natural gas facility. Fossil fuels are costly to our health, air, water and climate and expensive investment for customers."
Otter Tail Power Company’s next 15 year plan is due on June 3, 2019.
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Wind on the Wires Applauds Lt. Gov. Tina Smith's Leadership on Clean Energy
Wind on the Wires Applauds Lt. Gov. Tina Smith's Leadership on Clean Energy
ST. PAUL, MINN. (February 27, 2017) - Today, Governor Dayton's administration announced a proposal to increase the state's Renewable Energy Standard to 50 percent by 2030.
Following Lt. Gov. Smith's address, Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt said:
"This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Next Generation Energy Act, which established our current Renewable Energy Standard. Over these 10 years, we have witnessed the success of this policy: billions of dollars have been invested in Greater Minnesota, farmers and local governments are receiving millions in new revenue, and thousands of Minnesotans now work in the clean energy industry. Best of all, Minnesota utilities have done an outstanding job integrating this increased level of renewable energy, and they've done it in a way that has had minimal impacts on rates in the short-term and millions of dollars of consumer savings over the life of wind projects.
We strongly support the Administration's renewed focus on growing our state's clean energy industry. Numerous reports suggest this policy is a smart way to drive investment in rural Minnesota, reduce carbon, and diversify our energy portfolio in a cost-effective way. Wind on the Wires stands ready to help make the Governor's vision a reality."
# # #
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
2016
Kansas To Surpass Illinois as One of Top Five Wind Energy States This Year
Kansas To Surpass Illinois as One of Top Five Wind Energy States This Year
Report: Illinois' growth lags other Midwest states; Broken energy policy to blame
CHICAGO, IL - All indicators point to Kansas eclipsing Illinois from the Top 5 U.S. states for installed wind generation by end of year, according to a report released today. The American Wind Energy Association's (AWEA) U.S. Wind Industry Third Quarter 2016 Market Report indicated that Illinois added no new wind power to the grid in 2016 and has only two projects under construction. Meanwhile states like Kansas, Iowa, and Missouri are all adding significant wind capacity to their energy mix.
"2016 is another slow year for the wind power growth in Illinois," said Kevin Borgia, Public Policy Manager for Wind on the Wires. "This is unfortunate, because Illinois has a strong wind resource, huge electric demand, and residents that want more clean, low cost wind on the grid."
Illinois traditionally has long been a wind power leader, but its role has been sliding in recent years. Four years ago, Illinois ranked 4th in the country in installed capacity, but Oklahoma pushed Illinois from that position in 2014.
The report shows the Midwest remains a leader in wind development. Oklahoma is now on pace to become the third-ranked state in installed capacity by the end of 2016, overtaking California. Among other findings about Midwest states, it notes that Iowa has seven wind power projects currently under construction and Missouri is expected to more than double its installed capacity by the end of 2017. Currently, Illinois has only two projects under construction.
Illinois's slow growth is generally attributed to the lack of a comprehensive state energy policy and broken Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS). Lawmakers, environmentalists, utilities and other stakeholders are currently debating fixes to the RPS law, but the conversation has been mired in a broader energy debate in the state Capitol for years.
"EDP Renewables has invested more than $1.5 billion in its Twin Groves, Rail Splitter, and Top Crop Wind Farms in Illinois" said Ryan Brown, EDP Renewables Executive Vice President. "Investment is flowing to the farmers, local businesses, towns, and counties in nearby states while Illinois continues to stand on the sidelines, failing to harvest the clean, local resource that is wind. We urge Illinois lawmakers to act to fix the renewable energy law and get wind growth back on track."
The report details wind power projects throughout the country and provides data on all commercial scale wind power installed and under construction for 3rd Quarter 2016. A copy of the report can be found here.
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Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
Wind is a Winner: Falling Cost of Wind is Consumers' Best Bet
Wind is a Winner: Falling Cost of Wind is Consumers' Best Bet
As Court hears arguments on Clean Power Plan, wind can reduce carbon emissions at low cost
ST. PAUL, MINN., (September 27, 2016) - Today, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit is hearing oral arguments from challengers and supporters of the United States Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) Clean Power Plan rule that seeks to limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants by 2030.
Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt issued the following statement:
"Wind energy is consistently the cheapest option for complying with the Clean Power Plan. The cost of wind energy has dropped 66 percent in the past six years, and an Energy Information Administration study found windpower is the lowest-cost option for reducing the carbon intensity of our electric system. In fact, wind can generate up to 57 percent of the needed clean power under the EIA's most cost-effective scenario.
"In the absence of a federal energy policy, this Plan helps provide certainty across the country; certainty upon which renewable energy businesses can grow, make capital investments and create jobs.
"The message for states and utilities in the Midwest is clear: Wind is a winner. In fact, last week Xcel Energy announced a 1,500 MW Request for Proposals, which would be enough to power 750,000 homes by 2020. They're doing this to take advantage of historic low prices for this clean, renewable resource while planning for state and national energy standards. At the same time, such development projects will create jobs, economic development, new tax revenue for communities, water savings and other benefits that flow from developing wind farms.
"The Clean Power Plan merely accelerates the transition to a clean and cost effective renewable future for utility customers, which has already begun. Wind energy remains the biggest, fastest, and cheapest way states and utilities can comply with the Clean Power Plan.
"States and electric utilities can do this. Electric utilities have done a good job in the last decade of adding significant amounts of wind power to their generation portfolios, and an enormous amount of wind is still available for harvest. The Midwest with its vast amount of cost competitive renewables is uniquely suited to answer the call for more renewables."
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Xcel Energy Seeks Over 1,500 MW of Cost-Effective Wind Energy by 2020
Xcel Energy Seeks Over 1,500 MW of Cost-Effective Wind Energy by 2020
RFP Will Save Ratepayers Money, Create Jobs and Boost Tax Revenues
ST. PAUL, MINN. (September 22, 2016) -- Today, Xcel Energy announced that it intends to purchase up to 1,500 megawatts (MW) of cost-effective wind energy in the Upper Midwest before 2020. The timing of this Request for Proposal (RFP) will allow Xcel to procure wind power that is eligible for the full federal Production Tax Credit (PTC), which will translate directly to customer savings.
Today’s announcement comes on the heels of a new report from the Department of Energy finding that wind power has never been cheaper. With an average price of $20 per megawatt-hour today, the price of wind energy has fallen over 60% since 2009, according to the report. As costs have fallen, wind project efficiencies have increased dramatically, resulting in a product that is carbon-free, economical, and reliable.
“Xcel’s long-standing commitment to clean, low-cost wind power is commendable and today’s announcement will prove to benefit their customers for many years to come,” said Beth Soholt, Executive Director of Wind on the Wires. “Although many utilities in the Upper Midwest are actively adding wind power their portfolio, Xcel reminded us all today why they are the number one utility provider of wind energy for 12 years running. Not only is this a smart investment for ratepayers in the state, this level of wind development will drive new investment, create jobs, and boost tax revenues in rural communities throughout greater Minnesota and beyond.”
Wind on the Wires estimates that this additional wind development will drive $2.8 billion of new investment, create at least 1,000 new jobs, and provide over $5 million in new tax revenue for communities that host the wind turbines. In all, 1,500 MW of wind energy will avoid 2.3 million metric tons of carbon dioxide a year, which is the equivalent of 468,750 cars. It will also provide 750,000 homes with clean power and save 1.3 billion gallons of water.
A copy of Xcel's RFP can be found here.
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind and solar industries.
Gov. Rauner Signs Bill to Keep Tax Revenue From Wind Farms Flowing
Gov. Rauner Signs Bill to Keep Tax Revenue From Wind Farms Flowing
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Local Michigan Residents Voice Strong Support for Wind in the Thumb
Local Michigan Residents Voice Strong Support for Wind in the Thumb
72% Support Replacing Coal with Wind and Solar
Economic
impact of wind development ripples through local economies bringing
new sources of revenue to rural communities
LANSING, Mich., May 9, 2016 — Over the past several months, Wind Works Michigan and 5 Lakes Energy conducted public engagement meetings in Gratiot, Sanilac, and Tuscola counties of Michigan’s Thumb. At each meeting, information was presented on the economic benefits of wind development, its effect on agriculture, how renewables compare to other sources of electric generation, and addressed wind myths with facts. Throughout the meetings, attendees responded to polling questions using hand-held clicker devices.
“The results of these polls have been very positive, with local residents voicing strong support for wind energy in their communities” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “One of the most interesting finding is that 72 percent of those surveyed support replacing Michigan’s coal fleet with renewables like wind and solar; and two-thirds believe Michigan should invest in more renewables as coal plants are retired or taken off-line.”
Poll
shows strong support for wind energy:
New Revenue Sources Help Rural Communities
To date, Michigan has 279 megawatts of wind capacity under construction according to the American Wind Energy Association. “This investment in wind is also an investment in jobs for local communities,” said Skip Pruss with 5 Lakes Energy. “The economic impact of wind development ripples throughout local economies. New tax revenue paid by wind developers brings in millions of dollars every year to help pay for schools; county and township services like roads, police and fire departments; and programs for seniors and veterans. This new source of revenue helps keep more money in the pockets of the citizens.”
Local businesses also see an increase in their business as developers use local service stations, hardware stores, restaurants and hotels in their day-to-day operations. “In fact, one hotel in Huron County reported an 89 percent increase in their revenue as a result of a wind project development in the area,” added Pruss.
“Wind energy provides farmers a new source of reliable, consistent income that helps protect farmland and the future of agriculture here in the Thumb and throughout the state,” said Jim Byrum, president of the Michigan Agri-Business Association.
Keith Iseler, retired Port Hope, Michigan dairy farmer, agrees. “As a farmer, I have figured out that in any area you produce what you can and what you can sell. To produce wind energy, we need adequate wind, a relatively sparse population, and we need a market. We have all of those things in this area.” He added, “The income is stable and the benefits are large. These wind turbine developments can help keep the farmer on the farm.” Wind towers require only about an acre of land, so they do not greatly impact crops or livestock production.
Currently, wind provides 4.19 percent of Michigan’s electricity needs, with 1,531 megawatts of installed capacity from wind. That’s enough to power more than 437,000 homes. The Department of Energy Wind Vision report projects that Michigan could produce enough wind energy by 2030 to power the equivalent of 710,000 American homes. “That’s a lot of potential for further economic development for Michigan at a time when many small, rural communities are struggling to make ends meet and the bulk of their revenue streams are in the hands of state policymakers,” said Pruss.
“Michigan has a lot to gain by investing its energy dollars locally with renewables. Wind developments offer the opportunity to capitalize on jobs and economic development while keeping the air and water clean, and ensuring Michigan’s farm families and rural lifestyle can stay economically viable,” said Soholt.
# # #
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., that works to advance renewable energy in the Midwest. Its members are comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry.
State Political Stalemate Slows Wind Power Growth in Illinois
State Political Stalemate Slows Wind Power Growth in Illinois
New Report: Illinois Lags Behind Other Midwest States in 2015. Lack of Action on Energy Bills in Springfield To Blame.
SPRINGFIELD, IL - A report released today by the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) shows Illinois falling behind other Midwest states in expanding wind power. In 2015, Iowa, Kansas, and Oklahoma all saw significantly better growth than Illinois, largely due to lack of action on state energy legislation.
"Wind power is a proven economic engine for the state, particularly for the communities that benefit from the property tax revenue from wind farms," said DK Hirner, Eastern Region Policy Director for AWEA. "It's unfortunate that Illinois is being left behind because of politics while other states grow their economy by growing their renewable energy capacity."
The findings come from AWEA's U.S. Wind Industry Annual Market Report published today. Overall, 2015 was a strong year for wind power in the U.S. Wind energy was the No. 1 source of new generation in the country, delivering 41% of new generation capacity. The industry also peaked in employment and now counts over 88,000 employed in the wind industry, including more than 4,000 in Illinois. Wind farms also provide over $10 million in lease payments to Illinois farmers and landowners, according to the report.
While Illinois still ranks sixth nationally for wind generation, growth has stalled in the last few years due to inaction in Springfield. One proposal introduced by wind proponents and other clean energy supporters is the Clean Jobs Bill. It would fix the state's renewable energy law and provide other incentives to boost renewable energy in the state.
Loopholes in Illinois energy law prevent utilities from signing anything but very short-term contracts, but utilities need to take a longer view to build new clean energy infrastructure. The Clean Jobs Bill fixes this problem.
"State legislators have a solution in front of them so Illinois can return to leading in wind energy rather than falling behind," said Kevin Borgia, public policy manager for Wind on the Wires. "This new report demonstrates that wind power delivers jobs and economic growth and puts new urgency on passing the Clean Jobs Bill."
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the
Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is
comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal
representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups
and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission
is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing
technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public
outreach.
Illinois Senate Passes Bill to Keep Tax Revenue From Wind Farms Flowing
Illinois Senate Passes Bill to Keep Tax Revenue From Wind Farms Flowing
Bill Protects Millions in Annual Revenue For Rural Communities; Now Heads to House
SPRINGFIELD, IL - The Illinois Senate passed a bill on Wednesday that will ensure the state's rural communities continue to receive tens of millions in annual property tax revenue from wind farms.
Senate Bill 2612, sponsored by Senator Dave Koehler (D-Peoria), extends a sunset provision in an existing law that is scheduled to expire at the end of 2016. The tax revenue from Illinois wind farms injects millions of dollars into local coffers for rural schools, roads, and other government services.
Illinois' existing wind projects provide over $28 million in annual property tax revenue to local communities, according to a 2013 study by the Center for Renewable Energy at Illinois State University. The state ranks fifth in the nation for installed wind capacity, and is leading the way for clean energy job growth in the Midwest, according to a recent study by Clean Energy Trust.
"Stable tax policy is particularly important for Illinois's renewable energy sector," said Kevin Borgia, public policy manager at Wind on the Wires. "Extending this provision will ensure that rural Illinois communities will continue to benefit from tax revenue generated by wind farms for years to come."
Representative Tom Demmer (R-Rochelle) has already signed on as the chief sponsor in the House.
The bill is not a tax break, it simply extends the sunset on existing law governing the amount of local property taxes that wind farms will pay to local governments. This revenue is increasingly important for rural counties amidst ongoing budget stalemate at the state capitol.
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Clean Jobs Midwest Report Reports 12,868 Renewable Energy Jobs in Illinois
Clean Jobs Midwest Report Reports 12,868 Renewable Energy Jobs in Illinois
ST. PAUL, Minn., (March 22, 2016) - According to the new Clean Jobs Midwest report released today, the clean energy economy is growing in every Midwestern state - Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.
In response to the report, Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt provided the following statement:
"Despite the need to fix the Renewable Portfolio Standard to achieve its overall potential, Illinois still ranks first in the Midwest with over 113,000 clean jobs; 11.30 percent are in the renewable energy sector," said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. "Wind energy costs have dropped by 66 percent over the past six years, and solar costs have declined 53 percent since 2010. These dramatic reductions in cost are likely to drive further development, and increase the number of good-paying, family-supporting renewable energy jobs along the way.
"Strong state policies, like Renewable Portfolio Standards, provide powerful signals to businesses that are looking to make investments that a state is open for business. With the recent extension of the Production Tax Credit for wind and the Investment Tax Credit for solar, now is the time to take advantage of bargain record-low for renewable energy, especially wind."
Renewable Energy Highlights from the Report Include:
-
Renewable energy generation accounts for more than 12,868 jobs in Illinois, with 4,272 jobs in the solar sector, and 3,549 jobs in wind energy.
-
Manufacturing jobs make up 4.56 percent of the clean energy value chain in the state, employing 5,192 people.
The Midwest is clearly at the forefront of our nation's clean energy future. The industry is bringing new jobs and economic growth to our own backyard.
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
2015
Statement: Multi-year Extension of Production and Investment Tax Credits
Statement: Multi-year Extension of Production and Investment Tax Credits
Policy certainty is welcome news for Midwest wind and solar developers
ST. PAUL, MINN. (December 16, 2015) - Yesterday, Congress signaled there is an agreement to extend the wind energy Production Tax Credit (PTC) at its current 2.3 cents per kilowatt-hour rate for two years with a three-year phased down until it expires in 2020. Congress also extended the 30 percent solar Investment Tax Credit (ITC) and a credit for solar-powered energy efficient properties for three years before phasing it down the final two years.
Following this announcement, Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt said:
"Congress has done the right thing by extending the Production Tax Credit for wind and the Investment Tax Credit for solar. This extension gives these renewable energy industries the certainty they need to plan for the future and mitigates the boom-bust cycles that are so very detrimental.
"Since we have terrific wind resources in this part of the country, the Midwest will most certainly be a big beneficiary of the PTC. The ITC will help the emerging solar market in the Midwest complete projects in the pipeline and plan for the future. Our wind and solar developers are poised to take advantage of this policy certainty and are ready to help states meet their Clean Power Plan goals. The Midwest will also see enormous job creation and economic development from wind and solar projects.
"As the 'wind bread-basket,' our region can provide cost-effective wind energy that can be exported to other parts of the country where resources are not as abundant."
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind
on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn.,
which is comprised of wind and solar developers, environmental organizations,
tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm
groups and businesses providing goods and services to the renewable energy
industries.
New Illinois Poll: 74% of Voters Favor Extension of Federal Clean Energy Tax Credits
New Illinois Poll: 74% of Voters Favor Extension of Federal Clean Energy Tax Credits
Wide Majorities of Republicans, Democrats, & Independents Support PTC and ITC Extensions
Chicago, IL (December 7, 2015) - A new poll released today by A Renewable America (ARA), a project of the Wind Energy Foundation, finds that nearly three out of four (74 percent) Illinois voters support continuing to provide tax incentives for renewable energy.
This poll comes as Congress is currently considering renewing a number of tax policies, including the Production Tax Credit (PTC) and Investment Tax Credit (ITC),the two primary federal incentives for renewable power development.
The poll also found:
-
Support for renewable energy tax incentives is strong across the political spectrum. 60 percent of Republicans, 83 percent of Democrats, and 79 percent of Illinois Independents support continuing renewable energy tax incentives.
-
74 percent of Illinois voters support continuing tax incentives for renewable energy, even when presented with contrasting arguments. This support was particularly strong among younger voters, as 92 percent between the ages of 18 and 29, and 82 percent of voters between the ages of 30 and 39 agree.
-
88 percent of Illinois voters agree with the message that "we should continue to encourage renewable energy development so that the United States can move toward energy independence."
-
78 percent of Illinois votes agree with the message that "we should have astable and predictable tax policy, because it makes it easier for the renewable energy industry to plan its investments and continue driving down costs."
-
Nearly half (48 percent) of voters said they would be more favorable to a leader who supported continuing tax credits for renewable energy producers.
Recently, 46 renewable energy businesses and organizations with a significant presence in Illinois sent a letter to Senator Mark Kirk and Representatives Bob Dold and Pete Roskam, urging their support for timely extensions of the PTC and ITC.
"As an Illinois-based manufacturer, I can say that the policy uncertainty around these incentives jeopardizes industry growth and threatens jobs," said Joni Konstantelos, Director of Investor Relations and Corporate Communications, Broadwind Energy. "It's not surprising that Illinoisans support stable policy to continue the growth of renewable energy in our state."
Despite its great success in helping spur low-cost wind power development, the PTC was allowed to expire at the end of 2014. Similarly, the ITC is set to drop from a 30 percent credit to 10 percent for commercial installations at the end of 2016, with the residential credit will fall to zero - unless Congress acts.
"It's clear to me that Illinois citizens support an extension of the ITC to bring more solar to the state and help level the playing field against decades of fossil fuel subsidies." said Amy Heart, Senior Manager of Public Policy, Sunrun. "Our elected officials should extend the ITC this year to give certainty to industry with great potential for Illinois."
Local Illinois businesses and other stakeholders argue that policy uncertainty around these incentives jeopardizes industry growth and threatens more than 6,000 Illinois jobs. This uncertainty could also slow down the continual and significant cost declines in renewable electricity prices - especially for wind and solar power-that have spurred rapid growth in the renewable industries in recent years.
According to an analysis by the Solar Energy Industries Association and Bloomberg New Energy Finance, without an ITC extension, yearly solar deployment will drop 82 percent from 2016 to 2017 and cost more than 3,000 Illinois jobs. On the other hand, a five-year extension of the ITC would lead to $36 million in additional investment in the state from 2016 to 2022 when compared to ITC expiration.
The PTC, the primary federal incentive for wind power development, greatly benefits rural farmers and landowners who currently receive $13 million a year in land lease payments, while local governments take in over $28 million in tax revenue, according to a study from Illinois State University. These revenues help schools already hit hard by late and declining state payments.
"The PTC has helped spur hundreds of millions of investment in Logan County, and extending it will help advance the industry's momentum," said Bill Thomas, Lincoln and Logan County Economic Development Partnership. "Renewable energy is already creating jobs and spurring investment throughout Illinois, and we hope to see it continued."
"There is broad support for incentivizing the development and growth of renewable energy in Illinois," said Kristen Soltis Anderson, Partner, Echelon Insights. "Voters see the value in a stable tax policy for renewables and support continuing tax incentives for the industry."
The survey of 600 registered voters in Illinois was conducted by Echelon Insights from Nov. 19 - 24, 2015 and had a +/- 4.1 percent margin of error.
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DOE Wind Vision Report: More Wind Development Opportunities for Minnesota; Consumer Benefits of $2.54 Billion in Electricity Bill Savings Through 2050
DOE Wind Vision Report: More Wind Development Opportunities for Minnesota; Consumer Benefits of $2.54 Billion in Electricity Bill Savings Through 2050
Wind industry presents ceremonial check representing wind energy production tax payments to the region
SLAYTON, MINN., (November 12, 2015) – Today, representatives from the wind industry presented a ceremonial check to the Southwest Regional Development Commission and the Rural Minnesota Energy Board representing $7,224,246 in wind energy production tax revenue for 2014 to the counties of Cottonwood, Jackson, Lincoln, Lyon, Meeker, Murray, Nobles, Pipestone, and Rock.
“Rural Minnesota benefits from more
than $56 million in wind
energy production tax payments that have been paid over the past decade,” said Representative Joe Schomacker. “That
revenue helps hold the line on property taxes, helps pay for road improvements,
and helps support community projects throughout Greater Minnesota. Our
region is a clean energy leader and our citizens benefit from the jobs and
economic development that comes from wind development. We need to support wind energy
development in Minnesota.”
“Since the first counties came together in the early nineties to address wind development issues, local governments in southwest Minnesota have been at the forefront of policy work supporting wind development," said SRDC Executive Director Jay Trusty. “From the creation of a model wind ordinance to the passage of the wind production tax, they have promoted the development of wind as an economic tool to take advantage of a local resource and provide benefit to the residents of southwest Minnesota.”
The development of wind energy projects is welcome in Southwestern Minnesota. “Producing clean energy helps Minnesota become energy independent, and also benefits local landowners who are part of the projects,” said Gene Metz, Legislative Chair of the Rural Minnesota Energy Board. “In addition, our entire community will benefit from the production tax revenue. Counties in this area use the wind production tax revenue for things like repairing county roads, bridges, and some building projects.”
“Wind facilities provide many long-term high quality jobs for service technicians and support staff to maintain and operate the site,” said David Easler, Senior Plant Manager at Vestas America. “Currently Vestas employs over 80 people in Minnesota and this grows as new wind projects are developed. Vestas is currently installing 100 new wind turbines in Cottonwood and Jackson County at the Odell Project, adding 12 long-term full time jobs.”
Earlier this year, the Department of Energy released its Wind Vision report. Nationwide, the report projects that wind power can supply 10% of America’s electricity by 2020, 20% by 2030, and 35% by 2050 – all while delivering consumer savings worth billions of dollars a year. In Minnesota, there is enough wind energy resource to power the equivalent of 1.3 million average American homes by 2030. The report also shows that achieving the Wind Vision would provide Minnesota with electricity bill savings of $2.54 billion, cumulative through 2050.
In addition, federal policies like the Clean Power Plan are providing another opportunity to capitalize on Minnesota’s great wind resource. “Minnesota and several of our neighbors, especially Iowa and other states in the heartland of the country, stand to benefit greatly from the Clean Power Plan because this low-cost, renewable energy resource can be exported to other states,” said Chris Kunkle, regional policy manager for Wind on the Wires. “We can benefit from the jobs, economic development and wind energy production tax payments; and, since the Wind Vision report predicts significant electricity bill savings from the use of wind, we can benefit in our household budget, too.”
Minnesota has been a leader in supporting the growth and development of wind energy. Currently, Minnesota ranks in the Top 10 in the nation for installed wind capacity, and percent of total state electric generation from wind.
The wind industry has invested $5.7 billion into Minnesota’s economy. With 3,035 megawatts of installed wind capacity, wind power now provides 15.9% of Minnesota’s electricity.
Wind energy supports more than 1,700 well-paying wind-related jobs and 124 wind power businesses in the state. For the first time, the revenue from the Wind Energy Production Tax exceeds $10 million. More than one-quarter of the counties in the state benefit from this revenue source, especially in Greater Minnesota.
L-R: David Easler, Joe Schomacker, Jay Trusty, Gene Metz, and Chris Kunkle.
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the
Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is
comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal
representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups
and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission
is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing
technical and regulatory matters, as well as through education and public
outreach.
46 businesses & organizations urge Sen. Kirk, Reps. Dold, Roskam to extend energy tax credits
46 businesses & organizations urge Sen. Kirk, Reps. Dold, Roskam to extend energy tax credits
Letter stresses growth, job creation with Production & Investment Tax Credit extensions
CHICAGO (November 9, 2015) - Today, 46 renewable energy companies and business advocacy organizations urged U.S. Senator Mark Kirk and Representatives Bob Dold and Pete Roskam to support timely extensions of the Production Tax Credit (PTC) and Investment Tax Credit (ITC) in a letter to their offices. The renewable power industries have invested $7.2 billion in the state since 2003, and extensions of the PTC and ITC, the two primary federal incentives for renewable power development, are expected to come up for a vote later this fall.
Despite great success in helping spur low-cost wind power development, the PTC was allowed to expire at the end of 2014. Similarly, the ITC is set to drop from a 30 percent credit to 10 percent for commercial installations at the end of 2016, and the residential credit will fall to zero - unless Congress acts.
"[We] are interested in doing business in Illinois, but are stymied by the ongoing policy uncertainty around clean energy tax policy," states the letter. "Like all businesses, the renewable power sector needs stable, predictable federal tax policy to create jobs, invest capital, and deploy clean energy technologies."
The ITC and PTC have helped produce more than 6,000 Illinois jobs in wind, solar, and other renewable power sectors. Rural farmers and landowners have also benefited from these policies, receiving $13 million a year in land lease payments, while local governments take in over $28 million in tax revenue from wind farms, according to a study from Illinois State University. These revenues help schools already hit hard by late or declining state payments.
The Chicago area is home to more wind power companies' headquarters than any other city in the country. Illinois ranks #5 in the nation for installed wind generation.
"The repeated, short-term extensions of the PTC perpetuate the uncertainty that has both slowed the wind industry's growth and not allowed the realization of the cost advantage that a stable environment would allow," said Tom Carlson of wind and solar developer EDF Renewable Energy and a signer of the letter. "Every business needs long-term policy certainty, and extending the PTC and ITC would greatly help this industry to plan and make investment decisions."
Industry innovations continue to drive down the cost of renewable power, with wind energy costs declining 66 percent in the last six years, and the cost of solar installations falling 53 percent since 2010. These renewable energy sources reduced power prices by $177 million in one year, as the state already has enough wind power capacity to supply one million homes.
"Our customers are putting solar on their roofs because they save money in the long run," said Brandon Leavitt, President of Solar Service, a Niles-based installer and a signer of the letter. "An extension of the ITC will give our customers greater clarity about their investments and help us keep our installers working across Illinois."
The renewable power sector has historically received far less federal government support than traditional fuels. According to a DBL Investors study, the oil and gasindustries received five times more federal support than renewables during the first 15 years of each set of incentives.
With the new federal rules on carbon dioxide pollution - known as the Clean Power Plan - finalized earlier this year, Illinois expects to increasingly look to renewable power to meet its electricity needs. Stable clean energy tax policy will encourage the new renewable power development needed to meet the rules, and also assist in keeping down consumer costs.
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires' mission is to overcome the barriers of bringing wind power to market in the Midwest. We do this by focusing on transmission planning, creating equitable rules that govern the use of the electric grid, and educating the people who operate the electric system about the characteristics of wind energy.
Wind Power: A "No Regrets" Option to Help States Meet Clean Power Plan Requirements
Wind Power: A "No Regrets" Option to Help States Meet Clean Power Plan Requirements
Zero-emissions Wind Provides Reliable and Affordable Energy
ST. PAUL, MINN., (August 3, 2015) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its final Clean Power Plan rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants by 2030.
In response to this announcement, Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt issued the following statement:
“Wind on the Wires’ message for states and utilities in the Midwest is clear: Wind is a winner. And if you’re not carving out a robust role for renewables, like wind, you’re not choosing the lowest cost option, and you’re missing out on the jobs, economic development, new tax revenue for communities, water savings and other benefits that flow from developing wind farms.
“The Clean Power Plan released today will merely accelerate the transition to a clean and cost effective renewable future for utility customers, which has already begun. Wind energy remains the biggest, fastest, and cheapest way states and utilities can comply with the Clean Power Plan. The Energy Information Administration studied a range of options for complying with the Clean Power Plan, and wind energy was consistently the lowest-cost optionIn fact, wind can generate up to 57 percent of the needed clean power under the EIA's most cost-effective scenario.
“States and electric utilities can do this. Electric utilities have done a good job in the last decade of adding significant amounts of wind power to their generation portfolios, and an enormous amount wind is still available for harvest. The Midwest with its vast amount of cost competitive renewables is uniquely suited to answer the call for clean power that was advanced today."
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory matters, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind Energy Production Tax Provides Big Boost to Clay County in 2015
Wind Energy Production Tax Provides Big Boost to Clay County in 2015
Wind industry paid more than $10 million statewide in Wind Energy Production Taxes in 2015
MOORHEAD, MINN., (June 10, 2015) – Today, representatives from the wind industry presented a ceremonial check to the Clay County Commission Board Chairman representing $162,900 in wind energy production tax revenue for 2014. This new revenue comes almost entirely from the 50 megawatt Lakeswind project*, near Rollag, Minn., which began generating clean, renewable electricity in 2014.
The development of wind energy projects is welcome in Clay County. “Producing clean energy will help Minnesota and America become energy independent, and also benefits local landowners who have partnered in the project,” said Commission Board Chairman Grant Weyland. “But, in addition to those benefits, our entire community will benefit from the production tax revenue. This year, the county board has committed 80% of the county portion of revenue from the wind energy production tax toward a much-needed new county jail. Having this new revenue source will reduce the amount of tax dollars that would be needed to be raised from taxpayers to pay for this facility.”
Minnesota has been a leader in supporting the growth and development of wind energy. Currently, Minnesota ranks in the Top 10 in the nation for installed wind capacity, and percent of total state electric generation from wind. Senator Kent Eken added, “We in Minnesota want to be leaders in the renewable energy industry. It is a growing industry that will create many new jobs producing energy right here at home.”
The wind industry has invested $5.6 billion into Minnesota’s economy. With 3,039 megawatts of installed wind capacity, wind power now provides 15.9% of Minnesota’s electricity. “Wind energy has been good for Minnesota,” said Chris Kunkle, regional policy manager for Wind on the Wires. “This year, for the first time, the revenue from the Wind Energy Production Tax exceeds $10 million. Cumulatively, over the past 10 years, the wind industry has paid more than $56 million in production taxes. Those funds have helped hold the line on property tax increases, helped pay for road improvements and other infrastructure projects that benefit entire communities in Greater Minnesota. More than one-quarter of the counties in the state benefit from this revenue source, especially in Greater Minnesota where the jobs and economic development are needed most.”
Wind energy supports more than 1,700 well-paying wind-related jobs and 124 wind power businesses in the state. Representative Ben Lien stated, “This project is great example of how Minnesota is contributing to our country's energy independence, through renewable energy. These clean energy projects are also creating jobs and economic development for our state, as well as local revenue for counties.”
Wanzek Construction Vice President Arnold Jelinek stated, “Communities are often unaware of the positive impact wind energy projects bring at the local level. These projects boost local economies through revenue, jobs and property values. We see energy dollars benefit rural communities through stimulation to the local economy and we are proud to be a part of that. Wanzek’s corporate headquarters is located in Fargo. By working on local projects, we are able to see these benefits first hand. Investing in wind power means more businesses and jobs, leading to investment, development and a stronger economic environment for our own community.”
Paul White, President, Project Resources Corporation, a Minnesota-based wind and solar energy company, which provided the initial development services for the project said, “As a Minnesota-based wind and solar energy development company, it’s exciting to have worked on projects like Lakeswind that deliver clean low-cost energy to Minnesota communities. Every new wind project delivers economic opportunities for families and businesses to take advantage of one of our state’s great natural resources – the wind. Bravo to Clay, Becker and Ottertail Counties for supporting renewable wind energy!”
* Wind on the Wires is not affiliated with Lakeswind in any way.
# # #
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory matters, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind on the Wires Brings Wind, Business and Energy Policy Leaders to Minnesota
Wind on the Wires Brings Wind, Business and Energy Policy Leaders to Minnesota
Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association will give special remarks
ST. PAUL, MINN. (March 3, 2015) – Several prominent energy and climate change leaders will be coming to Minnesota on March 19 for an event hosted by Wind on the Wires at The St. Paul Hotel. The event, entitled, “Energizing the Future: Powerful Voices and Pioneering Leaders” will be an important gathering for the renewable energy sector as energy industry thought leaders discuss the future of national, state and regional energy policy.
The headline panelists feature: Bob Inglis (R-SC), Executive Director of Energy and Enterprise Institute; Jon Wellinghoff, Former Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC); Rob Threlkeld, Global Manager of Renewable Energy for General Motors; and Duncan McIntyre, Managing Director of Market Inventory at Altenex LLC. The panel discussion will be moderated by Paul Douglas, Meteorologist, Entrepreneur, and Founder of Media Logic Group. In addition, Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) will give special remarks about the forthcoming Department of Energy Wind Vision report, due to be released the week of March 16. The report is expected to show that wind energy can supply 10 percent of the nation’s electricity demand by 2020; and double to 20 percent by 2030.
“We are pleased to be able to bring these outstanding thought-leaders to Minnesota to discuss the future for clean energy in Minnesota and across America,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Minnesota’s success in building a clean energy economy is the direct result of establishing bold but doable policies. When the state’s Renewable Energy Standard was signed into law in 2007, it opened the door for businesses to invest in this state, and it has produced good results.”
According to the Minnesota Clean Energy Economy Profile report, Minnesota had 15,388 clean energy jobs statewide last year. The state has seen a 288% increase in wind power jobs since 2000, compared to an 11% state employment growth during the same time period. Wages in the wind power sector are more than $10,000 higher than the average annual wage in Minnesota. “We applaud Minnesota’s leadership in the clean energy sector. We are enormously proud of the nearly 2,000 wind power jobs and particularly the 553% increase in wind power businesses in Minnesota since 2000,” said Soholt.
“Minnesota has a lot of offer. It has outstanding natural resources to supply clean energy, a highly educated work force to draw upon, and an inherent desire to lead on important issues that benefit the state’s environment, the economy, and grow good family-supporting jobs for its citizens,” said AWEA CEO Tom Kiernan. “Minnesota has been an early leader in embracing clean energy, and I hope Governor Dayton and the state legislature will reaffirm that commitment for the next generation.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in
St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental
organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy
advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind
industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to
market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through
education and public outreach.
For more information about the 2015 “Energizing the Future” gala event, click here.
PSCW’s Approval of the Badger-Coulee Transmission Line
PSCW’s Approval of the Badger-Coulee Transmission Line
ST. PAUL, MINN. (March 26, 2015) – Today, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin met to consider the joint application of American Transmission Company and Northern States Power Company – Wisconsin for authority to construct and operate the new Badger-Coulee 345kV transmission line from La Crosse to Madison, Wisconsin. The Commission voted in favor of this project.
Following the approval of this application by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt said:
“Wind on the Wires applauds the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin for the leadership they have shown in approving this important transmission line. The Badger-Coulee line is a vital link in the integrated network of transmission projects known as MISO Multi-Value Projects (MVPs). Construction of the line is critical for the development and delivery of several thousand megawatts of clean, low-cost wind power. The new line will also reduce congestion in the MISO energy market and add to the reliability of the overall MISO grid. A number of clean energy advocacy organizations have worked on this new transmission line over the years, and we are extremely pleased at the outcome of this proceeding in Wisconsin.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in
St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental
organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy
advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind
industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to
market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through
education and public outreach.
Republicans, Corporate Buyers Can Enhance Opportunities for Wind Development, Panel Says
Republicans, Corporate Buyers Can Enhance Opportunities for Wind Development, Panel Says
ST. PAUL, MINN. (March 23, 2015) – Prominent energy and climate change leaders were in Minnesota last Thursday night for an exciting discussion of the future of the clean energy economy. Hosted by advocacy group Wind on the Wires, the event was entitled, “Energizing the Future: Powerful Voices and Pioneering Leaders” and was an important gathering for the renewable energy sector. Throughout the evening, energy industry thought leaders discussed the future of national, state and regional energy policy, as well as new and emerging opportunities for market development in the wind industry.
The headline panelists were: Bob
Inglis (R-SC), Executive Director of Energy and Enterprise Institute; Jon Wellinghoff, Former Chairman of the
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC); Rob Threlkeld, Global Manager of Renewable Energy for General
Motors; and Duncan McIntyre,
Managing Director of Market Inventory at Altenex LLC. The panel discussion was moderated by Paul Douglas, Meteorologist,
Entrepreneur, and Founder of Media Logic Group. In addition, Tom Kiernan, CEO of the American Wind
Energy Association (AWEA) gave special remarks about the newly released
Department of Energy Wind Vision report. The report shows that wind energy can supply
10 percent of the nation’s electricity demand by 2020; double to 20 percent by
2030 and become a leading source of electricity by 2050.
“Having these outstanding thought-leaders in Minnesota afforded a great opportunity to discuss the future for clean energy here and across America to do big-picture thinking about the possibilities for developing more renewables, and what may be needed to get there,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt.
Panelists discussed a variety of key issues in the renewable energy sector, including ways to change the debate about clean energy and key business and regulatory trends.
“As a conservative, evangelical Republican advocating for climate change, I’m as rare as an albino unicorn,” joked moderator Paul Douglas. Panelist Bob Inglis offered similar sentiment about the Republican Party, saying that “My party needs to stop being the Grumpy Old Party and start being the Great Opportunity Party.”
The growing trend in corporate renewable energy purchasing was also a key topic. “Corporations are driving the scalability of renewables,” said Rob Threlkeld, Global Director of Renewable Energy at General Motors, a company that has signed power supply contracts with wind farms and other renewables sources.
AWEA CEO Tom Kiernan offered a broader
view for the future of the wind industry, saying that the Department of
Energy’s recent WindVision report proves that the industry has outperformed
since its first major study of the sector in 2008.
“We can do this. The 20% by 2030 goal is not only doable, but we’re ahead of schedule in terms of both growth and lowering costs,” Kiernan said. “Achieving Wind Vision will save consumers money and create jobs. It starts with getting common-sense policies in place, so we can double U.S. wind energy in the next five years.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
WOW Statement re: Senate Env and Energy Cte Passed Energy Bill that Includes Increased RES
WOW Statement re: Senate Env and Energy Cte Passed Energy Bill that Includes Increased RES
ST. PAUL, MINN. (March 19, 2015) – Today, the Senate Environment and Energy Committee passed a significant piece of legislation – an energy omnibus bill (Senate File 1431) that will increase Minnesota’s Renewable Energy Standard to 40 percent by 2030. The bill retains the current definition of renewables and will now proceed to the Senate floor for a full vote there.
Following the passage of the bill by the Committee, Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt said:
“Wind on the Wires applauds the Senate Environment and Energy Committee members for passing this important legislation. It couldn’t have been done without Senator Marty’s leadership. Increasing the Renewable Energy Standard to 40 percent by 2030 sends a clear signal to renewable energy companies that Minnesota is open for business. The entire state benefits from continuing to build a clean energy economy, through lower energy costs over the long term and by keeping our already outstanding clean energy job sector working and growing.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
2014
Groundbreaking Study is Good News for Minnesota
Groundbreaking Study is Good News for Minnesota
ST. PAUL, MINN. (November 6, 2014) – Yesterday, the Minnesota Department of Commerce released the findings of its year-long Minnesota Renewable Energy Integration and Transmission Study (MRITS). The engineering study conducted by Minnesota utilities and transmission companies in coordination with the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) examined the ability to increase the state’s Renewable Energy Standard to 40% by 2030, and higher proportions thereafter, while maintaining system reliability.
“Minnesota has been a leader in technical studies to integrate renewables and create a robust electric grid. The study released yesterday continues the trend. Wind on the Wires thanks the utilities, transmission companies, MISO and the Department of Commerce for their leadership,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Relatively modest upgrades and additions to the existing transmission system are needed to achieve a 40% level of renewables. Wind on the Wires looks forward to working with utilities and other stakeholders on operational and power system impacts as the state adds more renewables.
“The Minnesota Clean Energy Economy Profile report shows that Minnesota has seen clean energy employment grow 78% since 2000 with 15,300 workers employed in a variety of clean energy sectors in 2014. The investments that have been made in clean energy and transmission so far have served us well.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind Industry Shines in New Clean Energy Economy Profile Report
Wind Industry Shines in New Clean Energy Economy Profile Report
Wind on the Wires is proud of the role the wind industry has played in Minnesota’s economy
ST. PAUL, MINN. (October 2, 2014) – Today, Governor Dayton presented the findings of the State’s Clean Energy Economy Profile, a report led by the Minnesota State Departments of Commerce and Employment and Economic Development, with input from a committee of industry leaders, including Wind on the Wires. The report illustrates the great successes Minnesota has enjoyed and the competitive advantage the state has for sustaining local jobs and attracting additional investments to grow our clean energy economy.
“Minnesota’s early action to embrace wind energy has created thousands of great professional jobs in our economy,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. According to the Minnesota Clean Energy Economy Profile report, Minnesota has seen a 288% increase in wind power jobs since 2000, compared to an 11% state employment growth during the same time period. Wages in the wind power sector are more than $10,000 higher than the average annual wage in Minnesota. “We applaud Minnesota’s leadership in the clean energy sector. We are enormously proud of the nearly 2,000 wind power jobs and particularly the 553% increase in wind power businesses in Minnesota since 2000,” said Soholt.
The report highlights that for wind,
the greatest number of jobs can be found in installation and maintenance,
project development and financing, and supplying manufactured component parts.
“Wind on the Wires has worked side-by-side with many groups, organizations, and
our members to establish the key policies that have helped drive this
incredible growth and economic development for our state,” said Soholt. “We urge Governor Dayton and the legislature
to ensure that Minnesota achieves at least half of its electricity from clean
energy by 2030 because it’s the right thing to do to create jobs, boost economic
development, and reduce carbon emissions that endanger our health and pollute
Minnesota’s vast water resources.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Southwest Minnesota has the largest employment concentration in wind power
Southwest Minnesota has the largest employment concentration in wind power
ST. PAUL, MINN. (October 2, 2014) – Today, Governor Dayton presented the findings of the State’s Clean Energy Economy Profile, a report led by the Minnesota State Departments of Commerce and Employment and Economic Development, with input from a committee of industry leaders, including Wind on the Wires. The report illustrates the great successes Minnesota has enjoyed and the competitive advantage the state has for sustaining local jobs and attracting additional investments to grow our clean energy economy.
“Minnesota’s early action to embrace wind energy has created thousands of great professional jobs in our economy,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. According to the Minnesota Clean Energy Economy Profile report, Minnesota has seen a 288% increase in wind power jobs since 2000, compared to an 11% state employment growth during the same time period. Wages in the wind power sector are more than $10,000 higher than the average annual wage in Minnesota. “We applaud Minnesota’s leadership in the clean energy sector. We are enormously proud of the nearly 2,000 wind power jobs and particularly the 553% increase in wind power businesses in Minnesota since 2000,” said Soholt.
The Clean Energy Economy Profile report shows that 41% of Minnesota’s wind power jobs in 2014 are in the southwest region of Minnesota; and 52% of regional clean energy businesses are in wind power. “This report illustrates what we have known for a long time; that wind development has been bringing high-paying jobs with benefits to rural communities throughout Minnesota,” said Shanelle Evens Montana, Associate, Legislative and Regulatory Affairs at EDF Renewable Energy. “In southwestern Minnesota particularly, hundreds of people are employed to operate and maintain the many projects in the area. Construction of wind projects brings a boom for area towns and businesses, but the best story is the long lasting economic development that spans the life of the project.”
“Wind on the Wires has worked side-by-side with many groups, organizations, and our members to establish the key policies that have helped drive this incredible growth and economic development for our state,” said Soholt. “We urge Governor Dayton and the legislature to ensure that Minnesota achieves at least half of its electricity from clean energy by 2030 because it’s the right thing to do to create jobs, boost economic development, and reduce carbon emissions that endanger our health and pollute Minnesota’s vast water resources.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
The Minnesota Clean Energy Economy Profile Report can be seen here: http://mn.gov/deed/data/research/clean-energy.jsp
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Minnesota
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Minnesota
ST. PAUL, MINN., (June 2, 2014) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its proposed rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. Using the EPA guidance, states will develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that will be submitted to EPA by June 30, 2016.
The draft rule will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but accelerate the move toward additional renewables. Wind energy is rapidly-scalable and has zero emissions, making it the cleanest source of low-cost utility-scale electricity production available today.
“We see this new rule as a key driver for additional renewable energy development in the Midwest,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Wind energy is already helping many states in the Midwest reduce carbon pollution in an affordable, reliable manner. As states consider their options for complying with the new rule, wind developers stand ready to make more capital investments, which will benefit local communities with jobs and economic development opportunities in addition to the benefits of its zero carbon emissions.”
According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), in the Upper Midwest, wind energy has provided more than 80% of all new electric generating capacity from 2011-2013. In Minnesota, wind provides 15.7% of the state’s electricity needs, or enough to power more than 840,000 average American homes. Minnesota ranks fifth in the nation for its share of electricity generation coming from wind, and based on data reported in AWEA’s May 2014 report, electric sector carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced by 13.76%. The use of wind energy directly correlates to reduced emissions because of wind energy’s low operating cost (and zero emissions) it is often used to offset power plants with the highest operating costs, which are usually the least efficient fossil fuel-fired plants.
“Several states are already considering increasing their Renewable Energy Standards, which in turn can help meet the requirements under the draft rule ,” said Soholt. “Wind power costs have dropped 43% in just four years, and the states with the most wind energy are actually saving money on their electric bills. That’s the silver lining.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Michigan
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Michigan
ST. PAUL, MINN., (June 2, 2014) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its proposed rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. Using the EPA guidance, states will develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that will be submitted to EPA by June 30, 2016.
The draft rule will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but accelerate the move toward additional renewables. Wind energy is rapidly-scalable and has zero emissions, making it the cleanest source of low-cost utility-scale electricity production available today.
“We see this new rule as a key driver for additional renewable energy development in the Midwest,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Wind energy is already helping many states in the Midwest reduce carbon pollution in an affordable, reliable manner. As states consider their options for complying with the new rule, wind developers stand ready to make more capital investments, which will benefit local communities with jobs and economic development opportunities in addition to the benefits of its zero carbon emissions.”
According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), in the Upper Midwest, wind energy has provided more than 80% of all new electric generating capacity from 2011-2013. In Michigan, wind provides 2.4% of the state’s electricity needs, or enough to power more than 325,000 average Michigan homes. Based on data reported in AWEA’s May 2014 report, wind energy has reduced electric sector carbon dioxide emissions in Michigan by 1.65%. The use of wind energy directly correlates to reduced emissions because of wind energy’s low operating cost (and zero emissions) it is often used to offset power plants with the highest operating costs, which are usually the least efficient fossil fuel-fired plants.
“Several states are already considering increasing their Renewable Energy Standards, which in turn can help meet the requirements under the draft rule,” said Soholt. “Wind power costs have dropped 43% in just four years, and the states with the most wind energy are actually saving money on their electric bills. That’s the silver lining.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Indiana
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Indiana
ST. PAUL, MINN., (June 2, 2014) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its proposed rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. Using the EPA guidance, states will develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that will be submitted to EPA by June 30, 2016.
The draft rule will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but accelerate the move toward additional renewables. Wind energy is rapidly-scalable and has zero emissions, making it the cleanest source of low-cost utility-scale electricity production available today.
“We see this new rule as a key driver for additional renewable energy development in the Midwest,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Wind energy is already helping many states in the Midwest reduce carbon pollution in an affordable, reliable manner. As states consider their options for complying with the new rule, wind developers stand ready to make more capital investments, which will benefit local communities with jobs and economic development opportunities in addition to the benefits of its zero carbon emissions.”
According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), in the Upper Midwest, wind energy has provided more than 80% of all new electric generating capacity from 2011-2013. In Indiana, wind provides 3.2% of the state’s electricity needs, or enough to power more than 360,000 average American homes, yet according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory data, Indiana has enough wind power to meet four times the state’s electricity needs. Based on data reported in AWEA’s May 2014 report, electric sector carbon dioxide emissions in Indiana have been reduced by 2.26%. The use of wind energy directly correlates to reduced emissions because of wind energy’s low operating cost (and zero emissions) it is often used to offset power plants with the highest operating costs, which are usually the least efficient fossil fuel-fired plants.
“Several states are already considering increasing their Renewable Energy Standards, which in turn can help meet the requirements under the draft rule ,” said Soholt. “Wind power costs have dropped 43% in just four years, and the states with the most wind energy are actually saving money on their electric bills. That’s the silver lining.”
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Illinois
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Illinois
ST. PAUL, MINN., (June 2, 2014) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its proposed rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. Using the EPA guidance, states will develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that will be submitted to EPA by June 30, 2016.
The draft rule will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but accelerate the move toward additional renewables. Wind energy is rapidly-scalable and has zero emissions, making it the cleanest source of low-cost utility-scale electricity production available today.
“We see this new rule as a key driver for additional renewable energy development in the Midwest,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Wind energy is already helping many states in the Midwest reduce carbon pollution in an affordable, reliable manner. As states consider their options for complying with the new rule, wind developers stand ready to make more capital investments, which will benefit local communities with jobs and economic development opportunities in addition to the benefits of its zero carbon emissions.”
Windpower is already dramatically reducing carbon pollution in Illinois. According to data from the American Wind Energy Association, wind generation reduced carbon emissions in Illinois by 9.73 million tons in 2013 alone. Illinois ranks fourth in the nation for installed wind generation with over 3,500 megawatts; and a study from Illinois State University found that these projects will bring over $6 billion to the state's economy over the coming decades. As Illinois policymakers consider plans for implementing these new standards at the state level, they should consider how the draft carbon pollution rules can help bring more emissions-free wind energy to the Prairie State.
“Several states are already considering increasing their Renewable Energy Standards, which in turn can help meet the requirements under the draft rule,” said Soholt. “Wind power costs have dropped 43% in just four years, and the states with the most wind energy are actually saving money on their electric bills. That’s the silver lining.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet new Carbon Emission Rules in Iowa
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet new Carbon Emission Rules in Iowa
ST. PAUL, MINN., (June 2, 2014) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its proposed rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. Using the EPA guidance, states will develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that will be submitted to EPA by June 30, 2016.
The draft rule will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but accelerate the move toward additional renewables. Wind energy is rapidly-scalable and has zero emissions, making it the cleanest source of low-cost utility-scale electricity production available today.
“We see this new rule as a key driver for additional renewable energy development in the Midwest,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Wind energy is already helping many states in the Midwest reduce carbon pollution in an affordable, reliable manner. As states consider their options for complying with the new rule, wind developers stand ready to make more capital investments, which will benefit local communities with jobs and economic development opportunities in addition to the benefits of its zero carbon emissions.”
According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), in the Upper Midwest, wind energy has provided more than 80% of all new electric generating capacity from 2011-2013. In Iowa, wind provides 27.4% of the state’s electricity needs, or enough to power more than 1.3 million average American homes. Iowa leads the nation in the percentage of electricity generated by wind energy, and according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, Iowa’s wind power is capable of meeting more than 44 times the state’s current electricity needs. Based on data reported in AWEA’s May 2014 report, electric sector carbon dioxide emissions have been reduced by 13.70%. The use of wind energy directly correlates to reduced emissions because of wind energy’s low operating cost (and zero emissions) it is often used to offset power plants with the highest operating costs, which are usually the least efficient fossil fuel-fired plants.
“Several states are already considering increasing their Renewable Energy Standards, which in turn can help meet the requirements under the draft rule,” said Soholt. “Wind power costs have dropped 43% in just four years, and the states with the most wind energy are actually saving money on their electric bills. That’s the silver lining.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Wisconsin
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Wisconsin
ST. PAUL, MINN., (June 2, 2014) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its proposed rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. Using the EPA guidance, states will develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that will be submitted to EPA by June 30, 2016.
The draft rule will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but accelerate the move toward additional renewables. Wind energy is rapidly-scalable and has zero emissions, making it the cleanest source of low-cost utility-scale electricity production available today.
“We see this new rule as a key driver for additional renewable energy development in the Midwest,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Wind energy is already helping many states in the Midwest reduce carbon pollution in an affordable, reliable manner. As states consider their options for complying with the new rule, wind developers stand ready to make more capital investments, which will benefit local communities with jobs and economic development opportunities in addition to the benefits of its zero carbon emissions.”
According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), in the Upper Midwest, wind energy has provided more than 80% of all new electric generating capacity from 2011-2013. In Wisconsin, wind provides 2.4% of the state’s electricity needs, or enough to power more than 185,000 average American homes, yet according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory data, Wisconsin has enough wind power to meet four times the state’s electricity needs. Wisconsin ranks twentieth in the nation in total megawatts of wind installed; and based on data reported in AWEA’s May 2014 report, wind energy has reduced electric sector carbon dioxide emissions in Wisconsin by 9.96%. The use of wind energy directly correlates to reduced emissions because of wind energy’s low operating cost (and zero emissions) it is often used to offset power plants with the highest operating costs, which are usually the least efficient fossil fuel-fired plants.
“Several states are already considering increasing their Renewable Energy Standards, which in turn can help meet the requirements under the draft rule,” said Soholt. “Wind power costs have dropped 43% in just four years, and the states with the most wind energy are actually saving money on their electric bills. That’s the silver lining.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Missouri
Wind Industry Ready to Help States Meet New Carbon Emission Rules in Missouri
ST. PAUL, MINN., (June 2, 2014) – Today, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) released its proposed rule that will limit the amount of carbon dioxide pollution that can be emitted from existing power plants under Section 111(d) of the Clean Air Act. Using the EPA guidance, states will develop State Implementation Plans (SIPs) that will be submitted to EPA by June 30, 2016.
The draft rule will not only reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but accelerate the move toward additional renewables. Wind energy is rapidly-scalable and has zero emissions, making it the cleanest source of low-cost utility-scale electricity production available today.
“We see this new rule as a key driver for additional renewable energy development in the Midwest,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “Wind energy is already helping many states in the Midwest reduce carbon pollution in an affordable, reliable manner. As states consider their options for complying with the new rule, wind developers stand ready to make more capital investments, which will benefit local communities with jobs and economic development opportunities in addition to the benefits of its zero carbon emissions.”
According to the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA), in the Upper Midwest, wind energy has provided more than 80% of all new electric generating capacity from 2011-2013. In Missouri, wind provides only 1.3% of the state’s electricity needs, or enough to power more than 110,000 average American homes, yet according to the National Renewable Energy Laboratory data, Missouri has enough wind power to meet more than nine times the state’s electricity needs. Based on data reported in AWEA’s May 2014 report, wind has reduced electric sector carbon dioxide emissions by 6.52%. The use of wind energy directly correlates to reduced emissions because of wind energy’s low operating cost (and zero emissions) it is often used to offset power plants with the highest operating costs, which are usually the least efficient fossil fuel-fired plants.
“Several states are already considering increasing their Renewable Energy Standards, which in turn can help meet the requirements under the draft rule,” said Soholt. “Wind power costs have dropped 43% in just four years, and the states with the most wind energy are actually saving money on their electric bills. That’s the silver lining.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
2013
Wind Industry Applauds Court’s Decision to Uphold PSC 128
Wind Industry Applauds Court’s Decision to Uphold PSC 128
Dismissal of legal challenge to state wind siting rule provides certainty for wind industry
MADISON, WISC. (April 29, 2013) – Today, Brown County Circuit Court Judge William Atkinson dismissed a lawsuit filed by the Wisconsin Realtors Association (WRA) regarding the validity of Wisconsin’s uniform wind siting rule, PSC 128. The decision makes clear that the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSC) acted lawfully in promulgating the balanced and comprehensive wind siting rule, as directed by the Legislature.
“Today’s decision represents a victory for Wisconsin’s growing wind industry,” said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. “With this meritless claim as to the legality of PSC 128 now dismissed, the industry has the certainty it needs to continue creating construction, manufacturing, transportation and operation and maintenance jobs in Wisconsin.”
In the lawsuit filed last summer, WRA
alleged that PSC 128 was not lawfully promulgated, arguing that a report on
housing impacts was required and that the health expert on the Wind Siting
Council that made recommendations to the PSC during the rulemaking process did
not meet statutory requirements. In an oral decision, the judge dismissed these
claims, ruling that PSC 128 does not “directly or substantially” impact
housing, as required before an administrative agency must request a housing
impact study, and that the health expert on the Wind Siting Council was, in
fact, qualified to assess potential health impacts resulting from the
implementation of PSC 128.
“We hope that today’s decision will help put an end to the challenges from
opposition groups that have plagued the Wisconsin wind industry recently,” said
Soholt. “We look
forward to working with Wisconsin residents and businesses to move forward
following this decision and attain the economic benefits that the uniform
standards in PSC 128 can provide.”
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
2012
Wind Farms Mean $6 Billion to Illinois Economy
Wind Farms Mean $6 Billion to Illinois Economy
12,000 Illinois jobs at stake unless Congress extends wind tax credit
NORMAL, IL (July 17, 2012) - Illinois wind farms will bring nearly $6 billion to the state's economy over the lifetime of the projects, including over 19,000 new construction, maintenance and manufacturing jobs, says a new research report entitled, "Economic Impact: Wind Energy in Illinois," released Tuesday by the Center for Renewable Energy at Illinois State University.
The study demonstrates the economic growth that wind energy brings to Illinois communities, and is another reason for the state's Congressional delegation to support an immediate extension of the wind energy production tax credit (PTC).
"Strong clean energy policy combined with the PTC has helped fuel the growth of more than 10,000 megawatts of wind power in the Midwest ISO in the last decade. We would like to see that continue to grow and provide the economic benefit described in this report to the entire nation," said Beth Soholt, Executive Director of Wind on the Wires.
"It's important that decision-makers are educated about the significant economic development wind energy brings to state and local communities so that informed decisions regarding future adoption of wind energy projects can be made," said Dr. David Loomis, Director of Illinois State's Center for Renewable Energy.
Among the key results, the study finds that the 3,334 megawatts of installed wind generation in Illinois:
- Will generate a total economic benefit of $5.98 billion over the projects' 25-year lifespan
- Provide $28.5 million in annual property taxes
- Generates $13.05 million in annual lease payments to landowners
- Created approximately 19,047 full-time equivalent jobs during construction
- Supports approximately 814 permanent jobs in rural Illinois, with annual payrolls over $48 million
- Planned wind farm projects statewide would mean an additional 12,700 jobs and millions more to local economies through payments to landowners and property tax revenue. But, those projects are on hold because of uncertainty about the extension of a federal tax break for wind energy developers, which is slated to expire at the end of this year.
The Sierra Club's Illinois chapter celebrated the study, saying it proves that wind energy is a viable economic engine for Illinois communities, while also providing environmental benefit to the state.
Illinois Sierra Club Director Jack Darin said, "Congress can protect Illinois jobs and public health by supporting the PTC and helping the country transition to clean energy. We need all the members of Illinois' congressional delegation to support the PTC, and do their part to keep Illinois' clean energy economy growing."
Labor groups similarly cheered the news, reiterating the fact that wind energy has become a major source of construction jobs for rural Illinois in recent years.
"Wind energy is critical to economic recovery. For laborers, wind farms have meant jobs a worker can be proud of, and they provide family-sustaining wages. Laborers are proud to not only be building these wind towers, but building a sustainable future for our nation," said Michael Matejka, governmental affairs director for the Great Plains Laborers District Council.
In fact, Illinois is a national leader in wind turbine manufacturing as well, boasting 28 manufacturing facilities that make components for the wind industry. Failure to pass the PTC puts these important manufacturing jobs on the line.
A representative of the American Wind Energy Association (AWEA) agreed, saying this study brings the impact of wind energy home for Illinois lawmakers.
Larry Flowers of AWEA said, "This report again shows Illinois representatives and Senators why the PTC is vital for Illinois and the nation. We call on Congress to pass the PTC now to prevent the catastrophic job losses that will come with a lapse in this successful policy."
The PTC has seen strong bi-partisan support for several years, Flowers added, saying that Congress should put aside their differences and pass this policy mechanism as soon as possible.
The PTC provides a tax credit of 2.2 cents per kilowatt-hour of generated electricity for wind developers, which translates to lower delivered cost of the resource. Since the PTC was enacted seven years ago, wind power capacity has increased by 47,000 megawatts, a seven-fold increase.
The Production Tax Credit for wind has been in place since 2005 and has led to 47 GW of new wind capacity, equal to about 94 coal plants, spurring nearly $70 billion in private investment, according to AWEA.
Largely owing to the PTC, wind energy accounted for 35% of new electrical generation capacity installed in the past four years, and now supplies 20% of electricity needs in states like Iowa and South Dakota. The wind energy industry supplies close to 3% of electricity nationwide and is on track to generate 20% of all of America's electricity by the year 2030, as projected by the George W. Bush administration.
The new research is the latest update to an economic impact analysis the Center for Renewable Energy has performed annually since 2009, and was released at a press conference Tuesday morning at the 6th annual "Advancing Wind Energy in Illinois" Conference in Normal, Ill.
# # #
About Wind on the Wires
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
www.WindontheWires.org
Renewable Energy Saved Illinois Consumers over $100 Million
Renewable Energy Saved Illinois Consumers over $100 Million
New report from the Illinois Power Agency shows wind and other renewables reduced wholesale power prices, boosted economic growth
CHICAGO, IL (April 10, 2012) – Illinois residents and businesses saved over $100 million in power costs thanks to wind and other renewable energy sources, a result that highlights the broad importance of wind energy to the state’s economy.
In a study prepared for the Illinois General Assembly late last month, the Illinois Power Agency (IPA) found that adding wind power to the electric grid reduced wholesale power prices by $176.8 million while simultaneously creating jobs and other economic opportunities for residents and businesses. The conclusion affirms that renewables are a positive addition to the state’s energy portfolio.
“When the sun is shining or the wind is blowing,” the report states, “the combined output of renewable generators benefits all customers by bringing down the market price of electric energy for all resources operating at that time. This is because wind and solar generation can effectively bid in at a zero fuel cost.”
According to the study, renewable resources lowered Illinois’ average locational marginal price (LMP) for electricity by $1.30 per megawatt-hour (1.3 cents per kilowatt-hour), for a total savings of more than $176 million.
“This landmark study affirms what the wind industry has known for years,” said Wind on the Wires Policy Manager Kevin Borgia. “Wind energy has no fuel cost, which allows wind generators to bid lower spot market electricity prices than any traditional energy source. This translates to lower power prices for Illinois ratepayers and businesses.”
The IPA analysis confirms similar studies from Massachusetts and New York, which also found wholesale price-reductions from incorporating renewables onto the power grids in those states.
Illinois businesses are also enjoying strong growth from the manufacturing of wind turbine components and construction of wind farms in Illinois, the study notes, highlighting a 2011 Illinois State University (ISU) report on the economic impact of wind energy in the state.
The ISU report found that the first 2,422 MW of wind installed in Illinois has created over 13,000 temporary jobs and nearly 600 permanent jobs in the state, while also providing new business to construction, engineering and manufacturing-related firms. These new opportunities were in addition to the millions of dollars paid to Illinois landowners leasing space to wind farms, and millions in new property taxes that wind developers pay to local governments in Illinois.
Despite the positive findings, the IPA report also highlights the need for additional action to ensure Illinois ratepayers fully benefit from wind energy. The IPA analysis notes that renewables can be a hedge against electricity price volatility, but those benefits are not captured by a reliance on one-year contracts for renewable energy certificates (RECs), which has been the IPA’s primary mechanism for procuring renewables since 2007.
A REC is a derivative product of renewable energy, it is not physical energy. A reliance on one-year RECs subjects Illinois ratepayers to volatility in both REC prices and fossil fuel prices because of the laws of supply and demand.
The price of energy from wind is near an all-time low. Consumers would benefit from locking in long-term power-purchase agreements (PPAs) for wind energy now. Such long-term PPAs are standard in the renewable energy industry. Longer term contracts will lock in these low prices for a 10 to 20 year period. They also provide a stable revenue stream necessary for new generation to be built, bringing additional jobs and economic development to the state.
The full study can be found at the IPA website: http://www2.illinois.gov/ipa.
###
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
IWEA Merges with Wind on the Wires
IWEA Merges with Wind on the Wires
Group establishes grassroots initiative called the "Illinois Wind Energy Coalition"CHICAGO (Feb. 8, 2012) - In an effort to improve communication and wind power advocacy efforts, the Illinois Wind Energy Association ("IWEA") is merging with Wind on the Wires ("WOW"), a Midwest wind advocacy organization dedicated to overcoming the barriers to bringing wind energy to market. The merger is effective immediately. Former IWEA Director Kevin Borgia will join WOW as Manager of Public Policy & Membership, and under the auspices of WOW will spearhead a new grassroots initiative called the Illinois Wind Energy Coalition. "This is a great thing for the wind industry in Illinois," said Borgia. "This merger allows the industry to use its resources much more effectively, and offers members the benefit of WOW's staff, who are dedicated to addressing the ongoing legislative, regulatory, and technical/transmission challenges in the Midwest." "We are very excited to have Kevin on board to complement our already strong policy staff," said Wind on the Wires Executive Director Beth Soholt. "We are confident that Kevin's experience in Illinois policy, combined with his enthusiasm for membership development, will provide additional value to our members." Existing IWEA Members at the Gigawatt and Megawatt levels will automatically become members of the WOW Illinois Working Group, which focuses on policymaking matters for the state. Members at the Kilowatt and Associate levels will continue to receive periodic updates, legislative action alerts and other news about wind power in Illinois. All IWEA members will automatically become members of the newly formed grassroots alliance known as the Illinois Wind Energy Coalition. About the Illinois Wind Energy Coalition
To support this initiative, the former IWEA website (www.windforillinois.org) has been re-tooled and now serves as the home base for information, events and activities related to the Illinois Wind Energy Coalition. # # # Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach. |
Coalition members will receive periodic news and policy updates, and opportunities for networking and invitations to other events.
2011
Wind on the Wires Cheers the MISO Board’s Approval of the Multi-Value Projects Portfolio
Wind on the Wires Cheers the MISO Board’s Approval of the Multi-Value Projects Portfolio
ST. PAUL, MINN., (Dec. 8, 2011) – Wind on the Wires congratulates the Midwest Independent System Operator (“MISO”) Board of Directors for approving the Multi-Value Project (“MVP”) portfolio, which includes 17 transmission lines, as part of the MISO Transmission Expansion Plan 2011 (MTEP). The MVP portfolio contains the Michigan Thumb Project, which was previously approved by the MISO Board; and the Brookings, SD-Twin Cities (Minnesota) Project, which was conditionally approved by the MISO Board in June 2011.
“Wind on the Wires commends the MISO Board of Directors for approving the 17 Candidate Multi-Value Project portfolio,” said WOW Executive Director Beth Soholt. “We couldn’t be more pleased by this action, which is a testament to MISO’s commitment to constructing new transmission lines in the Midwest to, among other things, enable additional renewable energy to enter the market. The decision also allows many consumers to benefit from the low cost and clean energy that comes from wind development and a robust transmission grid that can deliver electricity back and forth across the region depending on where the power is needed.”
Transmission is a key component to developing our clean energy future and, until now, has been a significant road block in the quest to bring large amounts of renewable energy onto the grid. “The Midwest has not seen this significant of a transmission expansion for decades. WOW has been working with MISO since 2003 on transmission expansion to accommodate new wind power,” added Soholt. MISO’s decision to move forward with building new transmission lines will also help state and local economies as billions of dollars of investment contribute to economic growth, and thousands of jobs are created as these projects come to fruition.
“The upper Midwest has some of the highest wind power potential in the entire world, but it cannot be utilized without significantly expanding the transmission system,” said Joe DeVito, WOW chairman of the board and vice president of development for RES Americas. “Wind power is now one of the cheapest forms of new electric generation and MISO has demonstrated tremendous leadership by proposing a visionary expansion plan that will tap into the power of wind.”
“We applaud MISO for expanding their transmission planning process to include the reliability, economic and public policy benefits of large, regional transmission projects,” said Melissa Seymour, the director of regional policy and regulation for Iberdrola Renewables. “The MVP portfolio of transmission projects will not only enable the delivery of renewable energy to meet state Renewable Portfolio Standards, but will facilitate the ability of low cost wind resources to serve a more expansive area of the MISO footprint.”
Soholt also thanks the Governors who have provided leadership and supported the modernization of the region’s transmission grid. “Their efforts have been instrumental in the positive results we are celebrating today,” Soholt said.
Wind on the Wires is ramping up its efforts to fully participate in the various state regulatory proceedings for the individual MVP lines. Wind on the Wires looks forward to working with the transmission line sponsors, MISO staff, key decision-makers, groups and organizations and other stakeholders during the state implementation phase of approving and constructing transmission in the Midwest.
# # #
Wind on the Wires is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in St. Paul, Minn., which is comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
2010
FERC Approves Proposal on How to Pay for Needed New Midwest Transmission
FERC Approves Proposal on How to Pay for Needed New Midwest Transmission
Wind on the Wires Pleased by Approval, Looks to Continue to Advance New Transmission in 2011
December 16, 2010 -- The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) today approved a proposal by the Midwest Independent System Operator (Midwest ISO), the transmission grid operator for the Midwest, that will allocate 100% of the cost of new large regional transmission lines broadly across the region’s consumers.
The cost proposal reflects the broad regional benefits of these new transmission lines, known as Multi-Value Projects (MVPs). MVPs will reinforce an aging Midwest grid that has not seen robust transmission expansion since the 1970s. Such an expansion will help create a more flexible grid to deliver renewable energy, seize energy efficiency opportunities, reduce electricity bills and help keep the lights on.
The FERC approval of the new MVP designation was welcomed by regional wind energy advocacy group Wind on the Wires. According to Executive Director Beth Soholt, “Transmission is a key piece to unlocking our clean energy future, and we are pleased that FERC approved the Midwest ISO cost allocation proposal for Multi-Value Projects, which will help us realize the jobs, economic growth and environmental benefits that wind can deliver for the Midwest. We look forward to working with the Midwest ISO to move MVP lines into the Midwest ISO Transmission Expansion Plan for 2011 (MTEP’11) to boost our Midwest grid and help ensure that wind projects can deliver their energy to market.”
Along with approving the cost allocation for MVPs, FERC also approved a proposal that allocates 90% of the costs for new generator interconnection lines (the “on ramps” to the regional grid) directly to a new generator. While these generator interconnection lines are generally smaller, and probably less expensive than the larger MVP lines, it will be critical to understand in the transmission study process which lines are needed solely to interconnect a new generator or group of generators and which lines bring broader benefits and should be paid for by all users of the transmission system. To keep the generator interconnection lines cost effective, it will be important to have as many of the MVP lines approved in MTEP’11 as possible.
More information:
FERC Press release: http://www.ferc.gov/media/news-releases/2010/2010-4/12-16-10-E-1.asp
Statement of FERC Chairman Jon Wellinghoff: http://www.ferc.gov/media/statements-speeches/wellinghoff/2010/12-16-10-wellinghoff-E-1.asp
Statement of FERC Commissioner John Norris: http://www.ferc.gov/media/statements-speeches/norris/2010/12-16-10-norris-E-1.asp
Wind on the Wires is a non profit 501(c)3 organization comprised of wind developers, environmental organizations, tribal representatives, public interest groups, clean energy advocates, farm groups and businesses providing goods and services to the wind industry. Our mission is to overcome the barriers to bringing wind energy to market by addressing technical and regulatory issues, as well as through education and public outreach.
Clean Energy Transmission Takes Big Step Forward in Michigan
Clean Energy Transmission Takes Big Step Forward in Michigan
Regional Grid Operator Expedites Approval Process for Michigan “Thumb” Project to Deliver Clean Energy to Market, Setting Positive Precedent for Further Clean Energy Transmission in 2011
Saint Paul, MN, (Aug 20, 2010) --The Midwest Independent System Operator (Midwest ISO) today approved a clean energy transmission line known as the Michigan “Thumb” Project for inclusion in Appendix A of the Midwest Transmission Expansion Plan for 2010 (MTEP 10). The full suite of transmission lines within MTEP 10 will be voted on in December. Once a transmission line is included in Appendix A of MTEP and approved by the Midwest ISO Board of Directors, the utilities/transmission companies must use best efforts to construct the transmission line. The Thumb Project is needed for Michigan to meet its Renewable Energy Standard requirements in 2015.
The Thumb Project is the first regional transmission line to be considered under the Multi-Value Project, or MVP, criteria of the Midwest ISO’s cost allocation proposal. The new cost allocation approach, currently under review at the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), would broadly distribute the costs of large transmission lines that bring wide-ranging benefits to the Midwest region over time. As the regional grid operator for the region, the Midwest ISO’s actions on establishing a just and reasonable cost allocation proposal and now expediting a needed transmission line were welcomed by many in the wind industry.
“We are very pleased the Thumb Project has been expedited for consideration in 2010. This is a great step forward not just for Michigan, but for the overall process of building overdue new transmission to meet our clean energy goals across the Midwest,” said Beth Soholt, Executive Director of the regional wind energy advocacy group Wind on the Wires. “This will send a positive signal to wind developers, policymakers and clean energy advocates that the Midwest is serious about building the infrastructure we need to accommodate a clean energy future.”
The Thumb is one of a number of Starter Projects identified by the Midwest ISO through the Regional Generator Outlet Study for initial consideration under their recently proposed cost allocation proposal, which was filed with FERC on July 15th. Wind on the Wires is focused on moving forward proposed transmission projects, such as the starter projects, that will enable new wind generation development as quickly as possible. Working within the Midwest ISO stakeholder process, Wind on the Wires will advocate for the inclusion of the remainder of the Starter Projects to be included in Appendix A in MTEP11.
Draft Transmission Costs Proposal Could Put Midwest Wind on Shaky Ground
Draft Transmission Costs Proposal Could Put Midwest Wind on Shaky Ground
May 19, 2010 -- The Midwest Independent System Operator (Midwest ISO) has released a new draft proposal for allocating costs for electricity transmission lines in the Midwest. The proposal comes after more than a year of negotiation among transmission owners, state regulators, utilities, generation developers, power marketers, environmental organizations and other stakeholders. While the Midwest ISO proposal purports to support Midwest wind development and public policy, there were still strong concerns expressed by a number of wind industry stakeholders.
“We appreciate all the hard work of the Midwest ISO and the many stakeholders who have come to the table and spent a considerable amount of time crafting the Midwest ISO proposal. However, actual improvement in cost allocation to support wind development in the region—or lack thereof—is in the details, and too many of those details are still very troubling,” said Beth Soholt, Executive Director of Wind on the Wires (WOW). “Wind developers are fully prepared to pay their fair share to bring wind power to market, but without access to the grid and transmission costs that are competitive with other regions, they may be forced to pack up their turbines and move out of the Midwest.”
As the Midwest ISO considers how to allocate the costs for new transmission lines, the economic development, jobs, and tax revenue that wind development brings to communities could well hang in the balance. Midwest wind power will also play an important role in making the nation more energy independent and secure, yet limited capacity on the existing transmission grid and uncertainty over the economics of expanding the grid has sharply curtailed development of the Midwest's emerging wind power industry.
An informal survey of Wind on the Wires member wind developers revealed that companies will be forced to take a hard look at development plans in the Midwest if the Midwest ISO fails to adopt a favorable cost allocation policy.
“If transmission costs become too expensive, it will make Midwest renewable energy less competitive versus other areas of the country, and send a signal to the market to develop projects in more competitive areas,” said Joe De Vito, Chairman of RES-Americas and Board Chairman for Wind on the Wires. “If they get this wrong, a lot of the jobs, economic development and other advantages of wind energy may well go elsewhere.”
The new draft proposal from the Midwest ISO fails to address many of the original concerns relating to wind power, which were outlined in a series of letters over the past year. The concerns include transmission costs for new wind development that create a competitive disadvantage for the Midwest as compared to other regions of the country, and lack of a clear transition process between the old cost allocation method and new method for emerging wind energy projects.
In
addition to the economic concerns, the eventual success or failure of the
renewable energy goals outlined by the regional Midwest Governors’ Agreement
and in individual states could hinge on how the issue of transmission costs is
eventually settled.
Net Environmental Impact of Transmission
Wind on the Wires, working with the Union of Concerned Scientists, is
conducting a study to quantify the net environmental impacts of transmission
expansion envisioned in the Midwest Independent System Operator’s 2003
Expansion Study. This is a mid-project report.
570 Asbury St., Suite 201, St. Paul, MN 55104 USA
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