Data Center Signal is tracking 5 clips about WEC Energy Group data center developments across 1 states, including WI.
WEC Energy Group has announced that it is engaged in discussions with additional data center developers. This suggests potential expansion of data center infrastructure within the utility's service area and an increased focus on power supply for the industry.
The CEO of WEC Energy Group, which owns We Energies, is optimistic about future data center developments in Wisconsin, expecting another announcement this fall. This comes as the Public Service Commission approved special rates for large customers in response to data center growth, though it rejected a cost-sharing proposal for other customers. Environmental groups, however, are concerned about the reliance on fossil fuels to meet the surging energy demand from projects like Microsoft's and Vantage Data Centers'.
A Wisconsin Technology Council panel discussed the significant water and energy usage concerns associated with data centers, including a debate on closed-loop cooling systems and their indirect impact on power generation's water demands. Public opinion in Wisconsin is largely against data centers due to these concerns. Concurrently, the Manitowoc County Board has approved an 18-month moratorium on data center development.
American Transmission Company (ATC) plans to invest over $2 billion in new transmission infrastructure across Wisconsin to serve data centers, including those for Microsoft, Meta, and Vantage. Critics, such as the Citizens Utility Board, are concerned that the current cost-sharing structure will burden other ratepayers, while utilities maintain data centers will fully cover related transmission expenses. The Public Service Commission and FERC are involved in ongoing tariff cases to determine how these costs will be managed.
We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service, both owned by WEC Energy Group, have filed requests with the state Public Service Commission for significant electric rate increases in 2027 and 2028. The companies state these hikes are necessary to cover investments in new energy projects and infrastructure, while also proposing special rates for data center customers to bear a substantial portion of these costs. Consumer advocates, however, argue the proposals do not adequately protect residential customers from rising bills.