Another look at fuel choices: Rising prices pique lawmakers’ interest
Tom Content presented a clear overview on renewables in a story in the Journal Sentinel on October 22:
Soaring natural gas prices are bringing new attention to renewable energy and conservation, just as lawmakers are preparing bills to beef up the state’s commitment to renewable energy.
Wisconsin lags other states in the amount of renewable energy it taps to power the state’s homes and businesses, with renewables accounting for just 4% of the electricity supplied in the state.
And utility and state spending on energy conservation programs fell throughout the 1990s, then rose slightly several years ago before state budget deficits prompted even more cuts.
As high natural gas prices revive interest in fuel sources such as wind and solar energy, conservation is getting a second look as well.
