Opinion: Wisconsin should say no to outdated gas plants and yes to clean energy leadership

The Wisconsin Public Service Commission should reject the proposal to build a new methane gas plant in Oak Creek and Paris.

Wisconsin is standing at a crossroads when it comes to our energy future. The state’s Public Service Commission (PSC) is reviewing a $2.2 billion proposal from We Energies to build new methane gas plants in the Milwaukee suburb of Oak Creek and the Kenosha County Town of Paris. The choice is clear: double down on expensive, outdated fossil fuels—or invest in the clean energy solutions that are already creating jobs, lowering costs, and strengthening communities here in Wisconsin and across the country.

But this decision is about more than utility policy—it’s a test of leadership. The PSC, made up of three commissioners appointed by Governor Tony Evers, has the power to either help advance Wisconsin’s clean energy and economic goals or make it far harder to get there.

As someone who’s been an environmental manager, small business owner, nonprofit leader, and now a village president, I’ve seen firsthand that clean energy isn’t a burden—it’s one of Wisconsin’s greatest opportunities. But it requires bold, evidence-based choices.

The proposed gas plants would lock Wisconsin into decades of volatile fuel prices and higher utility bills. Meanwhile, battery storage technology—now 90% cheaper than a decade ago—is already replacing gas plants in states like Texas, California, and Alaska.

Rather than sink billions into fossil fuel infrastructure, Wisconsin should modernize its grid, turn old fossil fuel sites into clean energy hubs, and focus on battery storage, energy efficiency, and demand response. These solutions are cost-effective, faster to deploy, and better for our climate and economy.

Clean Energy Means Jobs and Growth

Clean energy is not only good for the planet—it’s good business. In Milwaukee’s Menomonee Valley, union workers are building and repairing wind turbines, helping revitalize a proud manufacturing area. Across Wisconsin, over 350 companies are part of the clean energy supply chain, from smart grid technology to renewable energy and electric vehicle components. This is Wisconsin’s chance to lead, not lag.

We have the people, the infrastructure, and the research power—especially through the UW System—to become a hub for clean energy innovation and investment. But we need a coordinated state strategy to turn this potential into reality.

The Business Community Is Paying Attention

Major companies like Microsoft, Google, and Meta are committing to run on 100% carbon-free energy by 2030, and they’re shaping where investment flows. If Wisconsin fails to modernize its grid and support clean energy, we risk falling behind—and losing the jobs and industries of the future.

Even more troubling, the gas plant proposal relies heavily on the anticipated energy needs of data centers, but neither utilities nor tech companies have provided clear details on how much energy will be needed, when, or who will pay. Microsoft has already paused construction in Mount Pleasant to reassess its energy needs.

The PSC must ask tough questions before putting Wisconsin ratepayers on the hook for billions: What are the real energy demands? When will they materialize? And how long will this infrastructure remain useful?

Let’s Lead, Not Fall Behind

Wisconsin has the tools and resources to lead on clean energy—what’s missing is a clear, coordinated, integrated resource plan. We need a smart energy strategy that keeps energy affordable, resilient, and forward-looking.

At a time when political divisions run deep, clean energy remains a rare point of common ground. It’s about jobs, innovation, savings, and energy independence. Let’s ensure Wisconsin is known not for clinging to the past, but for building a clean, sustainable energy future that reflects our values and moves us forward.