Editorial: Build on momentum for cleaner energy

March 6, 2006
Wisconsin State Journal

The renewable energy bill poised to pass the Legislature this week is a victory for Wisconsin in the way that the completion of a blueprint is a victory for a home builder.

What matters most is what comes next.

Wisconsin policy makers should follow up the renewable energy bill with more legislation to improve the state's energy independence and to encourage the development of energy sources that are better for the environment.

In addition, businesses and consumers should follow through by focusing on the opportunities to profit and save with new energy sources and conservation strategies.

The renewable energy bill, already passed by the Senate, is predicted to sail through the Assembly. It would require the state's utilities to provide 10 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by the end of 2015. It would also require state agencies to get 10 percent of their electricity from renewable sources by the end of 2011.

The bill contains provisions to improve energy efficiency as well.

By creating a demand for renewables, the legislation will help to lead Wisconsin toward cleaner sources of energy, like wind, that can be produced right here. The more that the demand for electricity can be met by renewables, rather than coal and natural gas, the better for the state's environment and economy.

But boosting renewable energy for electricity is no more than a piece of an energy strategy. The Legislature should do more.
Top priority should be given to a proposal to require that most gasoline sold in the state be blended to produce E10, motor fuel that is 10 percent ethanol.

Ethanol is an alcohol fuel with important advantages over gasoline: Ethanol can be made from corn and other renewable, home-grown crops; and when substituted for gasoline, ethanol cuts carbon dioxide emissions, which contribute to greenhouse gases linked to global warming.

The Assembly has already passed the E10 mandate. The bill also has the support of Gov. Jim Doyle, who last week ordered all state agencies to cut the use of gasoline, in favor of ethanol, by 50 percent over the next 10 years. The hold-up is the Senate. Senators should recognize the benefits the E10 mandate offers for the environment and economy and pass the bill.

The Legislature should also end Wisconsin's two- decade-old ban on building nuclear power plants. As demand for electricity grows, nuclear energy is an option the state cannot afford to reject if it hopes to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Rep. Michael Huebsch, R-West Salem, has introduced a bill to retire the outdated nuclear moratorium. It deserves adoption.

The right policies from state government, combined with educated choices by the private sector, can build for Wisconsin a more secure future through the development of alternatives to fossil fuels. Adoption of the renewable energy bill is an important step. The state should build on the momentum.