Energy (Solar)

AB 174 amends energy statutes to redefine "renewable resources" for reporting purposes, explicitly including nuclear energy starting in 2026. It establishes new definitions for large-scale wind/solar systems (100+ megawatts) and battery storage, while clarifying that local governments cannot restrict energy installations more strictly than state rules. The bill affects energy developers, utilities, and local governments by changing how transmission contracts are audited and how renewable/nuclear projects are categorized. It does not create new project requirements but updates existing reporting frameworks for the state legislature and governor. The bill is pending in the Energy and Utilities Committee after being introduced in April 2025.

SB 559 authorizes community solar programs in Wisconsin, allowing multiple households or businesses to subscribe to shared solar energy projects. It requires municipalities to approve community solar facility locations with a two-thirds vote of their governing body (with limited exceptions), while ensuring facilities comply with zoning rules. The bill defines key terms like "community solar facility" (ground-mounted or rooftop projects generating electricity for subscribers), sets size limits (max 5MW for ground sites, 20MW for rooftop sites), and requires at least 3 subscribers with 60% of capacity coming from small subscriptions (≤40 kW). Subscribers receive bill credits for the electricity their subscription generates, offsetting their energy costs through the utility.