Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB682

Wisconsin 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 11/27/23
• Refer: 11/27/23
• Failed: 4/15/24

Caption

Use of environmental trust bonds to finance the costs of retiring electric generating facilities; integrated resource and reliability planning by electric utilities and cooperatives; closure of large electric generating facilities; and granting rule-making authority. (FE)

Impact

One of the key impacts of AB682 is the requirement for electric utilities and cooperative associations to submit biennial integrated resource and reliability plans to the Public Service Commission (PSC). These plans must include detailed information about future construction of both large and small electric generating facilities as well as high-voltage transmission lines. The bill eliminates the previous requirement for the PSC to prepare a biennial strategic energy assessment, shifting the responsibility more heavily on utilities to ensure reliable energy supply and compliance with planning standards.

Summary

Assembly Bill 682 (AB682) is a legislative proposal that establishes new provisions regarding the financing of electric generating facilities and requires electric utilities to engage in more rigorous planning regarding their energy resources. The bill introduces the opportunity for electric utilities to use environmental trust bonds to cover costs associated with retiring existing electric generating facilities. This amendment aims to streamline financial recovery processes for energy utilities while addressing environmental concerns associated with facility retirements.

Contention

Although AB682 aims to enhance energy reliability and facilitate the transition to cleaner generation, it also raises concerns about oversight and local governance. Critics argue that by offering broad powers to utilities in terms of closure determinations and resource planning, the bill may prioritize utility interests over community input. Additionally, the process for determining the impact of closures on electric reliability has been a point of contention, as it may not fully take into account localized energy needs or environmental concerns surrounding facility retirements.