Our Legacy of Victory
Wisconsin Act 141
In 2006, state policymakers passed Act 141, a collection of significant victories that promoted the adoption of clean energy sources and energy efficiency programs. The new law included a requirement that state utilities generate 10% of their electricity from clean energy sources by 2010, a requirement that the state purchase 20% of its electricity from clean energy sources by 2010, and a requirement that utilities contribute 1.2% of their annual operating revenue to fund the Focus on Energy program.
The law also required that state officials update the Commercial Building codes to 2005 standards rather than the 1989 standards that were in place.
Clean Wisconsin staff spent hundreds of hours negotiating with utilities, lobbyists and lawmakers before finally settling on the requirements included in the final version of the legislation.
Why It Matters
Act 141 ensures Focus on Energy, the statewide energy efficiency program, has a stable, reliable source of funding. The popular program delivers $4.17 in benefits for every $1 invested.
The law also helps push power providers to increase the amount of electricity they generate from renewable resources, responding to growing concerns over climate change and air pollution.
