Wisconsin will benefit from $4.1 billion in investments as part of the Midwest’s largest-ever grid upgrade, according to a report from Wisconsin Public Radio. The Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) recently approved a $21.8 billion portfolio of 24 long-term transmission projects, with six involving Wisconsin. These include new transmission lines from Minnesota and Illinois, substation upgrades, and other infrastructure improvements.
MISO estimates the projects will generate 4,000–12,257 jobs and up to $4.5 billion in economic output. Additionally, the upgrades are expected to double Wisconsin’s clean energy capacity to 6.6 gigawatts, helping the state transition away from fossil fuels.
“These projects are critical for moving renewable energy across regions and ensuring grid reliability,” said Ciaran Gallagher of Clean Wisconsin. The lines are projected to be operational by 2032–2034.
American Transmission Co. (ATC), Wisconsin’s largest transmission utility, will likely handle portions of the work but awaits MISO’s assignment process. ATC is also advocating for a state bill granting utilities the right of first refusal to build new lines connecting to their infrastructure, aiming to reduce costs and accelerate timelines.
Critics, including consumer and clean energy groups, oppose such legislation, arguing it limits competition and raises costs. Regardless of the legislative outcome, MISO’s projects are expected to boost Wisconsin’s economy and support its growing energy demands.
