A bill blocking out-of-state competition on long-distance power line projects in Wisconsin is anticipated to pass through the GOP-controlled Legislature next year, according to the Wisconsin State Journal.
The proposal would give in-state companies the exclusive right to build any transmission project approved by the Midwest grid operator, MISO. The move aims to ensure lower construction costs and reduce the impact on ratepayers.
The bill’s opponents argue the measure could in fact drive up energy costs for ratepayers, however, by protecting in-state transmission companies’ interests and limiting competition.
Another bill seeks to expand the state’s network of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations through eased regulations on the private sector and set up the state to receive roughly $78 million in federal funds to grow its EV charging infrastructure.
