The Public Service Commission (PSC) voted Thursday to approve the Badger Hollow Wind Energy Center, a 118 MW wind project in Iowa and Grant Counties. It’s the first wind farm approved since 2011 and is a significant win for clean energy, local farmers, and Wisconsin communities.
“The environmental, economic, and health benefits of this project will be felt for decades,” says Clean Wisconsin Rural Energy Campaign Manager Rick Coelho. “The PSC’s decision means more economic opportunity and more financial resources for our farming families and communities hosting this project.”
Clean Wisconsin intervened in the proceeding, highlighting the environmental benefits of wind energy while addressing persistent misinformation. Our rural energy campaign team also helped lead local engagement efforts alongside a coalition of partner organizations.
“Our work in the Badger Hollow Wind Project was centered on providing scientifically sound and accurate information about wind energy while helping foster a positive conversation on how to maximize benefits for the community,” Coelho said.
The Commission also approved Whitewater Solar, a 180 MW solar farm on the borders of Walworth and Jefferson Counties. Clean Wisconsin’s recent report on the local environmental benefits of solar farms showed how this project will improve water quality in the area. Placing the solar panels on conventionally farmed ag land will reduce the amount of nitrogen and phosphorous being applied to the landscape, reducing chemical runoff and resulting in cleaner, healthier waterways. Commissioners specifically cited this report when they voted to approve the project.
