WISPIRG released a new report on July 20, entitled “The Environmental Case for Wind Power in Wisconsin,” documenting the tremendous environmental impacts of Wisconsin’s heavy reliance on coal and nuclear power.

Burning fossil fuels contributes to global warming, which is predicted to lower Lake Michigan water levels by six to eight feet; and cause more extreme droughts, floods and storms. Our current energy strategy also releases 2,615 pounds of mercury each year from coal-burning power plants and our two nuclear plants are expected to have 1,327 metric tons of spent fuel on-site by 2011. These facilities have no means to safely store that waste.

“If you look at the big picture of energy production’s impact on Wisconsin, from mercury in all our waters, to global warming threatening songbirds’ habitat, to storing hazardous nuclear waste on-site—wind power offers Wisconsin a cleaner, safer energy future,” said Bruce Speight, WISPIRG field director.

Many utilities oppose wind farms, claiming that they are not a reliable source of power despite their proven success in Europe and in Western states. Some opposition to wind farms in Wisconsin is due to concerns over bird and bat fatalities and noise problems.

WISPIRG’s report addresses those questions and makes recommendations to minimize the impacts of wind turbines.

WISPIRG is working with farmers, small businesses and local communities to win passage of the bill, which is expected to be debated this fall.