"We Energies' Reluctance: Compromising Grid Resilience and Affordability at the Expense of a Sustain
Enviornmental Justice and Infrastructure Initiative
Is enough solar to provide 60,000 energy assistance eligible residents with power.
98,000,000 watts of Solar Power $122.5 million.
VS
How much solar Microsoft needs for the former Foxconn site, data center project in Wisconsin.
752,000,000 watts of Solar Power $940 million.
It only takes 98MW of solar power to service the 60,000 Wisconsin eligible families who need additional assistance with their utility bill. Which project should happen first?
The "Me Energies" movement grassroots campaign aimed at addressing the high cost of utilities and advocating for fair energy practices. The term "Me Energies" seems to be a play on the name of the local utility company, We Energies, and represents a community-driven initiative for more affordable and equitable energy solutions.
Advocate for policies that ensure all communities have the opportunity to participate in decisions that affect their environment and health. - Push for the introduction of new regulations to enhance public participation in environmental decision-making. Engage with communities to ensure their voices are heard in environmental decision-making processes.
Corporate social responsibility, including its commitments to sustainability, stewardship, compliance, and engagement, is also a significant policy issue.
Advocate for policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote climate resilience. Push for the state to lead by example in mitigating climate change. Engage in public education efforts to raise awareness about the impacts of climate change and the need for action.
Advocate for fair and effective regulations that do not unduly burden businesses or disadvantaged communities.
The energy burden, or the percentage of household income spent on energy costs, is a significant issue for many Milwaukee residents. EJII has been involved in advocating for policies that reduce this burden, particularly for low to middle-income ratepayers.
Advocate for the expansion of the Focus on Energy program to reach more households and businesses. Push for increased funding for energy efficiency programs.
The transition to renewable energy is a key issue, with implications for rate structures, infrastructure investments, and environmental impact. This includes the closure of older, less efficient fossil fuel plants and their replacement with renewable energy sources
-Advocate for stronger policies to promote the use of clean, renewable energy sources. Push for the state to lead by example in reducing energy use in state-owned buildings. Work to ensure that the transition to clean energy is inclusive and benefits all communities.
WE Energies' operations have significant environmental implications, particularly in terms of greenhouse gas emissions. The company provides emission rates for customers to estimate their environmental footprint and has set goals for carbon and methane reduction
EJII participation in Wisconsin Public Service Commission utility rate cases and alternative payment programs proceedings...
The initiative strives to promote public awareness through education and support efforts that seek recourse against unfair utility practices. It also seeks to facilitate collaboration between stakeholders by sharing resources and funding opportunities that enable collaboration on solutions that benefit everyone involved.
Utility Price Protection Is Here: Get On Board With PIPP
Public Involvement - How to
EJII News, Information & Education
Ultimately, who pay$ for the Percentage of Income Payment program?
The Percentage of Income Payment Program (PIPP) will be funded through a combination of blended sources, including industrial customers, small business customers, and residential customers. In addition to these sources, federal resources and charitable contributions from the utilities also play a significant role in financing the program. It is important to understand that the funding for PIPP is determined through a process of negotiation involving all key stakeholders. Historically, low-to-middle income stakeholders have not been part of these conversations or had a seat at the table to discuss utility rates, performance-based rate-making, and future management of these systems in Milwaukee. However, our efforts to date have created an opportunity to design a more fair and equitable energy system in the city, allowing all parties involved to prosper. As a monopoly utility in Milwaukee, We Energies is charged with the responsibility of ensuring affordability and reasonable energy prices for all customers. This means they must provide a range of products and services that cater to the diverse needs of the community they serve. The PIPP aims to fulfill this requirement by addressing the financial constraints faced by low-income households and helping them better manage their energy costs. The determination of how We Energies serves and addresses the needs of Milwaukee ratepayers is ultimately up to the Public Service Commission and the ratepayers themselves. This process takes into account the unique circumstances and economic conditions that exist within Milwaukee, ensuring that the utility's offerings are tailored to meet these needs. It is essential for all stakeholders to be engaged in the public involvement and negotiation process to ensure that the program benefits everyone involved and contributes to a prosperous, sustainable energy landscape for the city.