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Fighting Fossil Fuel Infrastructure
We can’t achieve a clean energy future if we continue investing in dirty energy. Every new pipeline or gas plant locks in decades of dangerous pollution and delays our progress toward climate stability.
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Explore Our Approach
Overview
Ending Our Fossil Fuel Dependence
Fossil fuels are polluting our air, draining our savings, and driving the climate crisis. Despite the growing availability and affordability of clean energy, Wisconsin still relies heavily on coal, oil, and methane gas for power—and new fossil fuel projects are still being proposed. At Clean Wisconsin, we’re pushing back.
We fight to accelerate the retirement of outdated coal plants and oppose the expansion of harmful fossil fuel infrastructure, including gas-fired power plants, oil pipelines, and Reciprocating Internal Combustion Engine (RICE) units. The stakes are too high to keep building yesterday’s energy system. We need to act now to protect our air, water, health, and climate.
#3
Wisconsin ranks 3rd worst in the nation for disparities in air pollution exposure
#9
Wisconsin has the 9th-highest death rate from particulate matter air pollution from fossil fuel combustion.
$14B
leaves Wisconsin each year to import coal, gas, and oil.
$2-4B
in health costs could be avoided by reducing air pollution.
162,000
new jobs could be created through clean energy investments.
2050
Wisconsin can reach net-zero emissions by 2050 with bold climate action.
HIGH STAKES
Exposing Fossil Fuel Risks?
Fossil fuels aren’t just relics of the past—they’re roadblocks to a healthy future. They pollute our air, contaminate our water, and heat our planet. Clean Wisconsin works to expose the hidden costs and long-term dangers of continued fossil fuel reliance.
Gas-Fired Power Plants
Methane gas plants are often framed as a “cleaner” alternative, but in reality, they emit dangerous pollutants and rely on a fuel that accelerates climate change. Methane traps over 80x more heat than CO₂ over 20 years and contributes significantly to warming.
Coal-Burning Power Plants
Despite the known harms, coal still powers a large portion of Wisconsin’s energy grid. Burning coal releases mercury, sulfur dioxide, and particulate matter—all linked to serious health risks. We fight to speed up coal plant closures and invest in clean wind and solar.
Oil Pipelines
Pipelines like Enbridge’s Line 5 endanger our freshwater systems and violate tribal sovereignty. They transport carbon-heavy fuels with long-lasting environmental impacts. We support frontline communities working to decommission these pipelines and halt new construction.
ACTIVE CAMPAIGNS
Take Action to Fight Fossil Fuels
Get involved in the fight for a better future. Advocate for renewables, oppose new fossil fuel infrastructure, and help build a cleaner, healthier Wisconsin.
latest news and analysis
Fossil Fuel Information
Learn more about fossil fuels, clean energy, and the policies shaping our energy future.
Press Releases
Port Washington data center could harm Wisconsinites’ health to the tune of $1.3 million annually
New analysis from Clean Wisconsin finds that air pollution from diesel generators at the hyperscale Vantage data center in Port Washington could cause $960,000 to $1.29 million in annual public health costs statewide.
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Expert Insights
Superior WI says no to new gas plant
Preventing the construction of new fossil fuel infrastructure is long and hard work.
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Podcasts
How Superior WI Defeated a Gas Plant
In this episode, Amy talks with the mayor of Superior, Wis., about the long journey to defeat the Nemadji Trail Energy Center.
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