The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) oversees utility regulation. Wisconsin Act 140, enacted in 2013, significantly altered the state’s approach to renewable energy development and utility regulation. Specifically, it established a framework for competitive solicitations for new generating capacity, including renewable energy projects. This act aimed to introduce greater market-based principles into the procurement of electricity resources. Utilities are now required to conduct competitive procurements for new generation unless specific exemptions apply. These procurements are designed to ensure that the state obtains electricity resources in a cost-effective manner while also considering reliability and environmental factors. The PSCW has promulgated administrative rules, such as those found in Chapter PSC 111, Wis. Admin. Code, to implement the provisions of Act 140, detailing the procedures and requirements for these competitive solicitations. The core principle is to foster a competitive environment for acquiring new generating resources, moving away from a system solely reliant on utility-proposed projects determined through traditional rate-making proceedings. This competitive process allows for a broader range of developers, including those focused on renewable energy, to propose projects and compete on price and other factors.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) plays a crucial role in regulating utilities. Under Wisconsin Statute § 196.49, any public utility planning to construct or install any plant or equipment that will affect its service or operations must obtain a certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) from the PSCW. This requirement is fundamental to ensuring that new infrastructure projects serve the public interest, are economically feasible, and do not unduly burden ratepayers. The process involves a thorough review of the proposed project’s impact on service reliability, environmental concerns, and financial stability. The PSCW’s authority extends to approving or denying such applications, often with conditions attached to protect consumer welfare and promote efficient utility operations. This regulatory oversight is a cornerstone of Wisconsin’s energy law, aiming to balance the need for infrastructure development with the protection of the public.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) is tasked with overseeing the state’s utilities, including their rate-setting processes and long-term energy planning. Wisconsin Act 214, enacted in 2005, significantly reformed the state’s energy landscape by introducing provisions for competitive energy markets and utility integrated resource planning (IRP). A key aspect of IRP under Wisconsin law, particularly as guided by PSCW administrative codes like PSC 111, is the requirement for utilities to submit long-term plans detailing how they will meet future energy needs. These plans must consider various factors, including reliability, cost-effectiveness, environmental impact, and customer needs. The PSCW then reviews these plans, often holding public hearings and soliciting stakeholder input, before approving or modifying them. This process aims to ensure that utility investments align with the state’s energy goals and provide affordable, reliable, and sustainable energy for Wisconsin residents. The PSCW’s authority to approve or reject proposed generation facilities, transmission lines, and other infrastructure projects stems from its mandate to ensure that such developments are in the public interest, as defined by state statutes and administrative rules governing utility regulation. The concept of “least-cost planning” is central to this review, requiring utilities to demonstrate that their proposed resource acquisition strategies minimize costs over the long term while meeting reliability and environmental standards.

The question probes the regulatory framework governing distributed generation interconnection in Wisconsin, specifically concerning the application of net metering principles and the role of the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW). Wisconsin Act 214, enacted in 2019, significantly amended the state’s renewable energy statutes. Prior to this act, net metering policies were primarily established through PSCW rulemakings and individual utility tariffs. Act 214 codified and expanded upon these principles, providing a clearer statutory basis for distributed generation, particularly solar photovoltaic systems. It established a statewide cap for net metering programs and specified the rate at which excess generation is credited. The law also introduced provisions for interconnection standards and addressed the compensation for exported energy. While utilities are required to offer net metering, the specific details of compensation, such as the “avoided cost” or “full retail rate” credit, have been subject to ongoing PSCW proceedings and utility-specific proposals that must align with the statutory framework. The PSCW’s role is crucial in interpreting and implementing these statutes, ensuring compliance, and resolving disputes. Therefore, understanding the interplay between legislative mandates and regulatory oversight is key. The PSCW’s authority extends to approving utility-specific tariffs and interconnection agreements that conform to the overarching legislative intent, ensuring that the compensation for exported energy reflects a fair valuation, often benchmarked against the utility’s avoided costs of generation, transmission, and distribution, as interpreted through the lens of the statutory provisions and commission precedent.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) oversees the regulation of public utilities in Wisconsin, including the approval of utility rate structures and the development of long-term energy plans. When a major utility proposes a significant capital expenditure for a new generation facility, such as a combined-cycle natural gas plant, the PSC must conduct a thorough review. This review process is governed by Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196, particularly regarding utility financing and the certification of public convenience and necessity. The PSC’s analysis focuses on whether the proposed facility is in the public interest, considering factors like reliability, environmental impact, cost-effectiveness, and the utility’s overall resource plan. The PSC will evaluate the prudence of the investment, ensuring that the utility has acted reasonably in its planning and procurement. This includes assessing alternative generation technologies and fuel sources, as well as the projected operational costs and potential for cost recovery through customer rates. The PSC’s decision-making authority extends to approving or denying the construction and financing of such projects, and it may impose conditions on the approval to safeguard consumer interests and promote the state’s energy policy objectives. The concept of “least-cost planning” is a guiding principle in this process, although its application and interpretation can evolve with technological advancements and changing market conditions. The PSC’s role is to balance the utility’s need to provide reliable service with the imperative to ensure affordable and sustainable energy for Wisconsin residents and businesses.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) plays a crucial role in regulating utility rates and services. When a utility proposes a rate increase, the PSCW must conduct a formal hearing process to determine the justness and reasonableness of the proposed rates. This process involves evaluating the utility’s cost of service, including its operating expenses, capital investments, and a fair rate of return on its invested capital. Wisconsin law, particularly under Chapter 196 of the Wisconsin Statutes, outlines the procedures for rate cases. The PSCW has the authority to approve, deny, or modify proposed rates based on the evidence presented by the utility, intervenors (such as consumer advocacy groups or large industrial users), and PSCW staff. The ultimate goal is to ensure that rates are sufficient to allow the utility to provide safe, reliable service while protecting ratepayers from excessive charges. This involves a detailed analysis of the utility’s financial health, operational efficiency, and the economic conditions affecting its customers. The PSCW’s decision is binding unless overturned by a court.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) plays a pivotal role in regulating public utilities within the state, including electric cooperatives. When an electric cooperative in Wisconsin seeks to deviate from its established service territory, it must obtain approval from the PSCW. This process is governed by Wisconsin Statutes § 196.495, which outlines the requirements for obtaining a certificate of authority for territorial changes. The statute mandates that the cooperative demonstrate that the proposed change is in the public interest and will not unreasonably impair the service of any other public utility. Factors considered by the PSCW include the impact on existing customers, the financial viability of the cooperative, and the potential for service duplication or conflict. For electric cooperatives, which are member-owned, the cooperative’s articles of incorporation and bylaws also play a role in internal governance and the process for seeking such approvals, but the PSCW’s statutory authority supersedes these for external territorial changes. The primary legal basis for PSCW oversight in this matter is its mandate to ensure efficient and reliable utility service throughout Wisconsin, preventing undue competition and ensuring that all customers have access to necessary services. Therefore, the PSCW’s review is critical for any proposed alteration of an electric cooperative’s service area.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) has broad authority over the regulation of public utilities within the state, including the establishment of rate structures. When considering the recovery of costs for significant infrastructure projects, such as the construction of a new nuclear power plant, the PSC must balance the utility’s need to earn a reasonable return on investment with the public interest in affordable and reliable service. Wisconsin law, particularly Chapter 196 of the Wisconsin Statutes, grants the PSC the power to approve or deny rate increase requests. The PSC evaluates these requests through formal rate case proceedings, which involve detailed examination of the utility’s proposed costs, revenues, and capital investments. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin utilizes various ratemaking methodologies, such as cost-of-service ratemaking, which aims to allow utilities to recover their prudently incurred operating and capital costs, plus a reasonable profit. This involves scrutinizing the “used and useful” standard for capital assets. For a project like a new nuclear plant, the PSC would assess whether the investment was prudent, whether the plant is operational and serving customers, and whether the projected operating and maintenance costs are reasonable. The PSC’s decision-making process often involves public hearings, expert testimony, and consideration of economic conditions and environmental impacts. Ultimately, the PSC determines the rates that are just and reasonable, ensuring that the utility can provide adequate service while protecting consumers from excessive charges. The recovery of costs for a new nuclear plant would be a complex process, requiring the PSC to weigh the long-term benefits of a new energy source against the substantial upfront capital expenditure and ongoing operational expenses. The PSC’s decision is guided by the principle of ensuring that rates reflect the cost of providing service while also considering the broader economic and social implications for Wisconsin residents and businesses.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a crucial role in regulating utility rates and services. When a utility proposes a change in its rate structure, such as a shift towards time-of-use pricing or demand charges for residential customers, the PSC must conduct a thorough review. This review process is governed by Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196, particularly sections related to rate-making and public hearings. The PSC is mandated to ensure that rates are just and reasonable, and that they do not discriminate unfairly between customer classes. Furthermore, the PSC must consider the impact of proposed rates on energy affordability and conservation. The process typically involves the utility filing a formal application, followed by public notice, opportunities for intervenor testimony (from consumer groups, environmental organizations, or other interested parties), and ultimately, a PSC decision. The PSC’s authority extends to approving, modifying, or denying proposed rate changes. The concept of “least-cost planning” also influences these decisions, as the PSC is expected to encourage utilities to procure and generate power in the most economical way for their customers. The statutory framework requires the PSC to balance the financial health of the utility with the public interest, ensuring reliable service at fair prices.

Wisconsin Act 214 of 2013 significantly amended the state’s approach to renewable energy development and utility regulation. Specifically, it introduced provisions that allow for the securitization of costs associated with renewable energy projects. Securitization, in this context, involves a utility issuing bonds to finance these projects, with the bond payments being recovered through customer rates. This mechanism aims to lower the overall cost of capital for renewable energy development, thereby encouraging investment. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) plays a crucial role in approving such securitization plans, ensuring they are in the public interest and that the proposed financing structure provides demonstrable benefits to ratepayers, such as reduced overall energy costs or improved grid reliability. The PSCW’s review process typically involves evaluating the proposed bond terms, the projected savings for customers, and the impact on the utility’s financial health. This process is guided by the principle of ensuring that the benefits of securitization outweigh any associated risks or costs, aligning with the state’s broader energy policy goals. The legislation aimed to provide a more flexible and efficient financing tool for utilities to pursue significant renewable energy investments, supporting Wisconsin’s transition towards cleaner energy sources.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) oversees the regulation of public utilities in Wisconsin, including setting rates and approving infrastructure projects. When a utility proposes a significant capital expenditure, such as the construction of a new natural gas pipeline, it must seek a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) from the PSCW. This process involves demonstrating that the proposed project is needed, will serve the public interest, and is the most cost-effective and environmentally sound option available. The PSCW’s review considers various factors, including economic feasibility, environmental impact assessments, and potential alternatives, often involving extensive public hearings and expert testimony. Wisconsin Statutes §196.49 governs the requirement for obtaining a CPCN for utility construction projects that are considered major or that could have a significant impact on service or rates. The PSCW’s decision-making authority is grounded in its mandate to ensure that utility services are safe, reliable, and provided at just and reasonable rates, while also considering the broader public interest, which can encompass economic development and environmental stewardship. The specific requirements and the depth of review can vary depending on the nature and scale of the proposed project, with larger, more impactful projects typically undergoing a more rigorous and comprehensive evaluation.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) oversees utility rate structures and service standards within the state. When a utility proposes a significant change to its rate design, such as the introduction of a demand charge for residential customers, it must file an application with the PSCW. This application triggers a formal regulatory proceeding. The PSCW then conducts an investigation, which typically involves reviewing the utility’s cost of service, analyzing the proposed rate design’s impact on different customer classes, and considering the principles of cost causation and rate equity. Public hearings are often held to allow interested parties, including consumer advocates, industrial users, and environmental groups, to present testimony and evidence. The PSCW’s decision is based on whether the proposed rates are just and reasonable, non-discriminatory, and sufficient to provide adequate service while allowing the utility a reasonable rate of return. Wisconsin law, specifically Chapter 196 of the Wisconsin Statutes, governs these proceedings and the PSCW’s authority. The concept of “least-cost energy planning” is also a crucial consideration, influencing how utilities are encouraged to invest in generation and efficiency resources, which indirectly impacts rate design by affecting the utility’s overall cost structure. The PSCW’s approval is a prerequisite for implementing such a rate change.

In Wisconsin, the Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a pivotal role in regulating utilities, including the transition to renewable energy sources. Act 141, enacted in 2005, significantly amended Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196, particularly concerning renewable energy standards and utility planning. This legislation mandated utilities to file Renewable Energy Plans (REPs) that outline how they will meet increasing renewable energy targets. The PSC then reviews and approves these plans, ensuring they are cost-effective and in the public interest. A key aspect of this review process involves assessing the potential impacts of these plans on electric reliability, environmental quality, and economic development within Wisconsin. Utilities must demonstrate how their proposed investments in renewable generation, transmission upgrades, and energy efficiency programs align with the state’s renewable energy goals while minimizing adverse effects. The PSC’s authority extends to approving or modifying these plans, ensuring a balance between promoting clean energy and maintaining a stable and affordable energy supply for Wisconsin consumers. The concept of a “least-cost integrated resource plan” is central to this regulatory framework, requiring utilities to consider all available resources, including renewables, in a manner that achieves the lowest overall cost to customers over the long term, while also meeting reliability and environmental objectives.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a crucial role in regulating public utilities, including those involved in electricity generation and distribution. When a utility proposes a significant infrastructure project, such as a new transmission line, the PSC must conduct a thorough review to ensure it serves the public interest. This review process often involves assessing the need for the project, its environmental impact, its economic feasibility, and its alignment with the state’s energy policies. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196 outlines the PSC’s authority in granting certificates of public convenience and necessity for such projects. The PSC’s decision-making framework is guided by principles of ensuring reliable, affordable, and environmentally responsible energy services for Wisconsin residents. The concept of “public convenience and necessity” is central to this regulatory oversight, requiring utilities to demonstrate that a proposed project is essential and beneficial to the public. The PSC’s approval is a prerequisite for construction, and failure to obtain it can halt the project. The process typically involves public hearings, expert testimony, and detailed evidentiary submissions from the utility and other stakeholders, including environmental groups and consumer advocates. The PSC’s final order must be supported by findings of fact and conclusions of law, reflecting a balancing of competing interests.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) is vested with the authority to regulate public utilities in Wisconsin. This includes approving rate increases and ensuring adequate service. When a utility seeks to recover costs associated with new infrastructure, such as a large-scale renewable energy project, it typically files a “rate case.” During a rate case, the PSC conducts a thorough review of the utility’s proposed expenses and revenues to determine just and reasonable rates. This process involves public hearings, expert testimony, and detailed financial analysis. The PSC’s decision-making is guided by Wisconsin statutes, including Chapter 196 of the Wisconsin Statutes, which outlines the PSC’s powers and duties concerning public utilities. The PSC must balance the need for utilities to earn a reasonable return on investment with the public interest in affordable and reliable energy. Furthermore, the PSC’s approval process for major energy projects often involves an “Advance Plan” filing, which is a long-term planning document submitted by utilities to the PSC, detailing their proposed investments in generation, transmission, and distribution facilities over a specified period. This advance planning process allows for public input and PSC oversight of significant future energy infrastructure decisions, ensuring alignment with state energy policy and environmental goals. The PSC’s role is to ensure that utility investments are prudent and necessary, and that the costs are recovered in a manner that is fair to both the utility and its customers, adhering to the principles of cost-of-service regulation and public convenience and necessity.

Wisconsin Act 214, enacted in 2005, significantly reformed the state’s energy regulation framework, particularly concerning the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin’s (PSCW) authority. Prior to this act, the PSCW had broad powers to approve or deny utility construction projects based on a public convenience and necessity standard. Act 214 introduced a more specific and structured approach, requiring utilities to submit long-range energy plans and seek approval for proposed energy generation and transmission facilities through a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) process. This process involves a detailed analysis of various factors, including environmental impact, economic feasibility, and the availability of alternatives. The act also emphasized the importance of energy efficiency and renewable energy sources in utility planning. The core of the question lies in understanding the specific statutory basis for the PSCW’s oversight of new power plant construction, which is rooted in the CPCN requirement as outlined in Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196, particularly as amended by Act 214. This process ensures that new infrastructure aligns with the state’s energy goals and meets established public interest criteria, moving beyond a general “public convenience and necessity” to a more defined set of considerations for facility siting and development.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) has broad authority to regulate public utilities within the state, including the approval of utility rate structures and the oversight of utility operations. Wisconsin Act 214, enacted in 2013, significantly altered the landscape of renewable energy development by establishing a statewide standard for net metering. This legislation mandates that investor-owned electric utilities offer net metering to eligible customer-generators, typically those with renewable energy systems up to a certain capacity, often 100 kilowatts. Under net metering, customers are credited for the electricity they generate and send back to the grid, usually at the retail rate, offsetting their consumption. The primary objective of net metering policies, as implemented in Wisconsin, is to encourage the adoption of distributed renewable energy generation by providing a clear and predictable financial incentive for customers. This policy aims to promote cleaner energy sources, reduce reliance on fossil fuels, and empower consumers to participate more actively in the energy market. The PSCW is responsible for promulgating rules and issuing orders to ensure utilities comply with the provisions of Act 214, including setting specific terms and conditions for net metering agreements, such as compensation rates and interconnection standards, while balancing the interests of all utility customers. The PSCW’s role is crucial in interpreting and enforcing the legislative intent behind promoting renewable energy within Wisconsin’s regulated utility framework.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) has the authority to approve or deny proposed electric utility rate changes. When a utility files for a rate increase, the PSC conducts a thorough review process. This process typically involves analyzing the utility’s proposed revenue requirement, which is the total amount of revenue the utility needs to collect from its customers to cover its operating expenses, capital investments, and earn a fair rate of return on its investment. The PSC then evaluates the prudence of the utility’s expenditures, ensuring that costs are reasonable and necessary for providing reliable service. A key aspect of this evaluation is the determination of the utility’s authorized rate of return, often based on a cost of capital analysis that considers the cost of debt and equity. If the PSC finds that the proposed rates are not just and reasonable, it can modify them. For instance, if the PSC determines that certain operating expenses were imprudently incurred, it may disallow those expenses from being recovered through rates. Similarly, if the utility’s requested rate of return is deemed excessive, the PSC will establish a lower, authorized rate of return. The ultimate goal is to set rates that are sufficient for the utility to maintain its financial integrity and provide adequate service, while also being fair to consumers. Therefore, a utility’s proposed rate increase can be denied or reduced if the PSC finds that the utility has not demonstrated the necessity of the full increase, has incurred imprudent expenses, or is seeking an excessive rate of return, as per Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196.

The question revolves around the regulatory framework for utility-scale solar energy projects in Wisconsin, specifically focusing on the siting and permitting process. Wisconsin’s Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a pivotal role in approving such projects, often under the provisions of Chapter 196 of the Wisconsin Statutes, which governs public utilities. The PSC’s review typically involves assessing the project’s impact on public convenience and necessity, environmental considerations, and the financial qualifications of the applicant. While local ordinances may influence aspects of project development, the PSC’s approval is generally the primary legal hurdle for projects exceeding a certain size or impacting the transmission grid. The concept of “undue burden” on local jurisdictions is a consideration, but it is weighed against the broader public interest served by renewable energy development. Federal environmental reviews, such as those under the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), may also be required depending on federal involvement (e.g., federal funding or permits), but the core state-level regulatory authority for utility siting rests with the PSC. Therefore, understanding the PSC’s jurisdiction and the statutory basis for its review is crucial for navigating the permitting process for large solar installations in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Act 214, enacted in 2013, significantly amended Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196 concerning public utilities. One of its key provisions relates to the process for approving new electric generation facilities. Prior to Act 214, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) had a broader authority to grant or deny certificates of public convenience and necessity for such facilities based on a comprehensive review of various factors, including economic feasibility, environmental impact, and public interest. Act 214 introduced a more streamlined process, particularly for certain types of generation facilities. Specifically, it established a rebuttable presumption that a proposed electric generation facility with a generating capacity of 100 megawatts or less, if it meets specific environmental and siting criteria, is in the public interest. This presumption shifts the burden of proof to parties opposing the facility to demonstrate that it is not in the public interest. For larger facilities, the traditional comprehensive review process generally continues, though Act 214 also introduced provisions for expedited reviews in certain circumstances. The intent behind these changes was to encourage investment in new generation, particularly smaller, potentially cleaner technologies, while maintaining oversight for larger projects. The “rebuttable presumption” is a crucial legal concept here, meaning the initial finding is in favor of the proposal, but can be overcome by evidence to the contrary.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) oversees utility rate setting and service standards in Wisconsin. When a utility seeks to recover costs associated with new infrastructure, such as a renewable energy project, it typically files a rate case. This process involves presenting evidence of the prudency and necessity of the expenditure, along with projected operating costs and revenue impacts. The PSCW then reviews this evidence, often through public hearings and expert testimony, to determine a just and reasonable rate that allows the utility to recover its costs and earn a fair return on investment, while also protecting consumer interests. The concept of “used and useful” property is central to this determination, meaning that only assets actively contributing to service delivery can be included in the rate base. Furthermore, the PSCW considers various factors like the cost of capital, operational efficiency, and environmental considerations, as mandated by Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196, which governs public utilities. The commission’s decision is a balancing act, ensuring financial viability for the utility and affordable, reliable service for ratepayers.

In Wisconsin, the Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a pivotal role in regulating utility rates and services. When a utility proposes a change to its rate structure, such as introducing a demand-charge component for commercial customers, it must file an application with the PSC. This application is subject to a formal review process, often involving evidentiary hearings where all interested parties, including consumer advocates, industrial users, and environmental groups, can present their case. The PSC’s decision-making authority is guided by statutory mandates, primarily focusing on ensuring just and reasonable rates, adequate service, and the public interest. This includes considering the economic impact on different customer classes, the environmental implications of energy consumption patterns, and the utility’s financial health. The process is designed to balance the utility’s need to recover its costs and earn a fair return with the public’s need for affordable and reliable energy. The PSC may approve, deny, or modify the proposed rate structure based on the evidence presented. The Wisconsin Environmental Policy Act (WEPA) may also require an environmental impact statement for significant utility projects, though rate design changes typically fall under the PSC’s direct regulatory purview without triggering WEPA’s full EIS process unless they are tied to major infrastructure or generation changes. The core principle is that any change must be supported by evidence demonstrating its reasonableness and its alignment with the public interest, as defined by Wisconsin statutes governing public utilities.

In Wisconsin, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) plays a crucial role in regulating utility rates and services. When a utility proposes a change to its rate structure, such as implementing a demand-charge component for industrial customers, it must file an application with the PSCW. This application is subject to a formal review process. Chapter PSC 113 of the Wisconsin Administrative Code governs the procedure for rate increase applications. The PSCW will typically conduct a hearing, allowing all interested parties, including consumer advocacy groups and affected businesses, to present evidence and arguments. The Commission’s decision must be based on a finding that the proposed rates are just and reasonable, considering the utility’s cost of service, the financial health of the utility, and the impact on various customer classes. If the PSCW approves the demand charge, it would be incorporated into the utility’s tariff, which is the official schedule of rates and regulations. The Public Intervenor (PI) is a statutory office within the PSCW that represents the public interest in rate cases, ensuring that the public’s concerns are adequately addressed during the regulatory process. The Wisconsin Supreme Court has affirmed the PSCW’s broad authority in setting rates, provided the decisions are supported by evidence and follow statutory procedures.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) plays a pivotal role in regulating public utilities, including their rate structures and service standards. When a utility seeks to recover costs associated with a new, large-scale renewable energy project, such as a solar farm, through a rate increase, the PSC must evaluate the project’s prudence, cost-effectiveness, and benefit to ratepayers. This process typically involves a formal rate case proceeding. Wisconsin Statute Chapter 196 outlines the PSC’s authority over utility regulation. Specifically, Section 196.03(1) mandates that all rates and charges made, demanded, or received by any public utility shall be reasonable and just. Furthermore, Section 196.03(2) allows the PSC to investigate the reasonableness of utility rates and to establish just and reasonable rates. The PSC will consider various factors, including the projected operational costs, capital expenditures, expected energy output, environmental benefits, and the impact on customer bills. They will also assess whether the utility has explored all reasonable alternatives and negotiated favorable terms for the project. The PSC’s decision will be based on a comprehensive review of evidence presented by the utility, intervenors (such as consumer advocacy groups or environmental organizations), and PSC staff. The PSC’s approval of a rate increase to fund such a project is not automatic; it hinges on demonstrating that the investment is in the public interest and that the resulting rates are just and reasonable. The question probes the fundamental regulatory authority and the evidentiary standard required for a utility to pass on the costs of a new renewable energy project to its customers in Wisconsin.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) has a statutory mandate to ensure that utilities provide safe, adequate, and reliable service at reasonable rates. This includes overseeing the planning and construction of major energy infrastructure. When a utility proposes a new transmission line in Wisconsin, the PSCW’s review process is governed by Chapter 196 of the Wisconsin Statutes, particularly concerning certificates of public convenience and necessity (CPCN). For projects exceeding certain thresholds or impacting environmental resources, an environmental impact statement (EIS) may be required under Wisconsin Administrative Code PSC 111.06. The PSCW evaluates not only the technical and economic feasibility but also the environmental, social, and economic impacts on the affected communities. This evaluation considers alternative sites, routes, and technologies, as well as the overall public interest. The commission’s decision-making process involves public hearings, stakeholder engagement, and expert testimony to arrive at a determination that balances the need for reliable energy infrastructure with the protection of public welfare and the environment. The Public Utilities Regulatory Policy Act (PURPA) of 1978, while a federal law, influences state-level utility regulation by encouraging cogeneration and small power production, but the direct siting and approval of major transmission infrastructure in Wisconsin falls under state jurisdiction as outlined in Chapter 196.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) plays a crucial role in regulating utility rates and services. When a regulated utility seeks to recover costs associated with a new generation facility, such as a solar farm, through a rate increase, the PSCW must determine the reasonableness and prudence of those expenditures. This involves a detailed review of the utility’s proposal, often under a Certificate of Authority or a similar regulatory proceeding. The PSCW’s authority stems from Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196, which governs public utilities. Specifically, the commission must ensure that proposed rate increases are just and reasonable and that the investments made by the utility are prudent and in the public interest. This includes examining the cost-effectiveness of the chosen technology, the procurement process, and the projected operational expenses. The PSCW also considers the impact on ratepayers and the overall reliability and affordability of energy services in Wisconsin. The process typically involves public hearings, expert testimony, and the submission of extensive data by the utility. The commission’s final decision will either approve, deny, or modify the proposed rate increase based on its findings regarding the prudence of the investment and the necessity of the rate adjustment to ensure the utility’s financial health and its ability to provide adequate service.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) oversees the siting of major energy facilities, including electric generating plants and high-voltage transmission lines, under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196. Specifically, Section 196.491 governs the issuance of certificates of public convenience and necessity (CPCNs) for such facilities. The process involves a comprehensive review of environmental, economic, and public interest factors. A key aspect of this review is the consideration of alternative sites and technologies, as mandated by statute. The PSC must determine that the proposed facility is necessary, will serve the public interest, and that there is no more feasible and prudent alternative. This includes evaluating the environmental impact of alternatives, their cost-effectiveness, and their reliability. The PSC’s decision-making process is guided by the principle of balancing the need for reliable and affordable energy with the protection of the environment and public health. The statute emphasizes a thorough public participation process, allowing for input from affected communities, environmental groups, and other stakeholders. The PSC’s final decision on a CPCN application is a quasi-judicial one, subject to judicial review.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) has broad authority over the regulation of public utilities in Wisconsin, including the oversight of their integrated resource planning (IRP) processes. Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196 outlines the powers and duties of the PSCW. Specifically, Wisconsin Administrative Code PSC 111 governs the IRP process for electric utilities. This code requires utilities to submit IRPs that consider a range of generation and demand-side resource options to meet future energy needs reliably and cost-effectively. The PSCW reviews these plans to ensure they align with state energy policy objectives, which often include promoting renewable energy, energy efficiency, and grid modernization, while also considering environmental impacts and economic factors. The commission’s approval of an IRP is a critical step before a utility can undertake significant capital investments in new generation or transmission facilities. This process involves extensive public participation and expert analysis to balance the interests of consumers, the utility, and the state’s energy future. The PSCW’s role is to act as a fiduciary for the public interest, ensuring that utility investments are prudent and that rates reflect the cost of providing reliable service. The commission’s decisions are subject to judicial review, but its authority in approving IRPs is substantial.

In Wisconsin, the Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin plays a pivotal role in regulating public utilities, including those involved in electricity generation and distribution. When a utility proposes a significant change in its service territory or the construction of major infrastructure, such as a new transmission line, it must undergo a rigorous review process. This process is primarily governed by Wisconsin Statute Chapter 196, which outlines the powers and duties of the PSC. Specifically, Wis. Stat. § 196.491 details the requirements for a certificate of public convenience and necessity (CPCN) for the construction of major utility facilities. The PSC must consider various factors when evaluating a CPCN application, including the public need for the facility, its environmental impact, its effect on the local economy and communities, and the availability of alternative solutions. The PSC’s decision-making authority is guided by the principle of ensuring that proposed facilities are in the public interest. This involves balancing the utility’s need to provide reliable and affordable service with the broader societal concerns related to environmental protection, land use, and community well-being. The PSC’s regulatory framework also incorporates public participation, allowing stakeholders to provide input during the review process.

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission (PSC) has broad authority over the regulation of public utilities in Wisconsin. This authority includes approving utility rate increases, setting service standards, and overseeing utility planning and construction projects. Under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 196, the PSC is mandated to ensure that utility services are provided at just and reasonable rates and that utilities operate in a manner that is safe, efficient, and reliable. When a utility proposes a significant infrastructure project, such as the construction of a new transmission line or a major power plant upgrade, it must undergo a rigorous review process. This process typically involves a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) application, as outlined in Wisconsin Statutes Section 196.49. The PSC evaluates the need for the project, its potential environmental impact, its economic feasibility, and its alignment with the state’s energy policy objectives. Public input is a crucial component of this review, with opportunities for public hearings and comments. The PSC’s decision on a CPCN application is based on a comprehensive record, including testimony from the utility, intervenors, and PSC staff. The commission’s ultimate goal is to balance the utility’s need to invest in infrastructure with the public interest in affordable, reliable, and environmentally responsible energy. The PSC’s decision-making framework emphasizes considering the public interest, which encompasses economic factors, environmental protection, and the provision of adequate service. This includes assessing alternatives and ensuring that the chosen project is the most prudent and cost-effective means of meeting future energy needs.