CLEAN ENERGY—Jennifer Giegerich, WISPIRG state director, spoke at a press conference at the capitol March 6 to highlight the economic potential of renewable energy. Also speaking were Forest Ceel IBEW, Bill Holland of the Apollo Alliance, and Chris Designer of Union of Concerned Scientists.

On March 7, the Assembly unanimously approved SB 459, a WISPIRG-supported bill to commit Wisconsin to a clean energy future. Gov. Doyle signed it into law on March 17.

“This is a tremendous victory for Wisconsin,” said Jennifer Giegerich, WISPIRG state director. “Committing to clean energy is good for our environment and our pocketbooks.”

The bill, championed by Sen. Rob Cowles (Green Bay) will require utility companies to provide 10 percent clean energy. It also ensures that tax dollars devoted to energy efficiency will be protected from future government cuts. So that the state leads by example, the bill requires the state to purchase 20 percent of its own energy from renewable sources.

WISPIRG worked with a broad coalition including local community leaders, farmers and small business owners, public health and religious organizations, and thousands of citizens around the state who contacted their decision-makers.

Wisconsin generates over 70 percent of its electricity from coal. The resulting pollution has caused every waterway in Wisconsin to be put under advisory for toxic mercury.

Wisconsin spends $9 billion dollars every year to purchase energy from outside of the state. With the legislation enacted, Wisconsin can invest more of that money in wind turbines.

“That’s the great part. It’s not only better for our environment, but also for Wisconsin’s economic future,” said Giegerich.