Utilities’ Proposed Rate Changes To Be Considered At Public Hearings

Two of the battles between Wisconsin utilities and the solar industry go before the public this week.

A plan by Madison Gas and Electric to raise the fixed monthly charge on their customers’ bill while slightly lowering the rate per kilowatt hour will be considered at a public hearing Thursday.

The Wisconsin Business Alliance has asked MG&E to pull its proposal in part because firms that want to invest more in solar believe their plans would no longer make financial sense. Kate Schachter of Union Cab said that her cooperative installed a solar array two years ago and wants to expand that.

“We cannot cost-effectively expand our solar array unless we are working hand-in-hand with MG&E,” said Schachter.

The solar industry has also hired a popular former offensive lineman for the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers as an advocate. Mark Tauscher said he’s planning on having a house built with solar panels but worries the utilities are trying to block solar companies.

“Athletes thrive on the fact that if they’re able to produce and do the things they can do, they’re going to get that opportunity to succeed, and I think that’s what we’re talking about when we’re talking about solar,” said Tauscher.

Also on the schedule this week is a public hearing Wednesday in Milwaukee on We Energies’ plan to raise its fixed charges.

The utilities argue everyone needs to help pay for the electrical grid, but the solar advocates want to see more details of the cost of keeping the lights on at football fields, or homes and businesses.