The article, “Our Sun Our Power: Broad Coalition of Businesses, Farmers, Workers, and Environmental Groups Press Senate to Approve Community Solar Legislation,” highlights growing support for Wisconsin’s proposed community solar legislation (SB-559 and AB-493). During a Senate hearing lasting more than three hours, fourteen witnesses representing farmers, contractors, solar developers, economists, major employers, and clean-energy advocates testified in favor of the bills, arguing that community solar would reduce electricity costs, strengthen grid reliability, and give local communities greater control over energy development.
Supporters emphasized that Wisconsin households currently face some of the highest electricity rates in the Midwest and need more affordable energy options. The legislation would allow the development of small-scale community solar projects, typically occupying 20–30 acres, that local residents and businesses could subscribe to in order to receive savings on their energy bills. Unlike utility-scale solar projects, these developments would be financed entirely through private investment rather than taxpayer funding.
A key feature of the proposal is increased local control. The legislation would shift authority over project siting from the state Public Service Commission to municipalities and towns, enabling communities to make decisions about projects in their own areas. Witnesses argued that this approach better reflects local priorities and concerns.
Farmers testified that community solar could provide a stable source of income by allowing them to lease small, less productive portions of their land while keeping most acreage in agricultural use. Labor and business representatives noted that many Wisconsin workers currently travel to neighboring states for community solar jobs and that the legislation could create local employment opportunities.
The hearing demonstrated support from a broad coalition that includes organizations such as Walmart, Advocate Aurora Health, Organic Valley, Kohler, Wisconsin Farm Bureau, RENEW Wisconsin, Associated Builders and Contractors, and Arch Electric. Supporters described community solar as a practical solution that lowers costs, expands energy choice, supports local economies, and empowers Wisconsin communities.
