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Bill

SB 1122

Relating to: prohibiting recovery of a rate of return on retired electric generating facilities; an exemption from certificate requirements for constructing a large electric generating facility; and a permit dashboard for applications for certificates of public convenience and necessity. (FE)

2025-2026 Regular Session Introduced by Romaine Quinn

Wisconsin bill prohibits utility returns on retired power plants, exempts large generators from certification, and creates permit tracking dashboard; failed to pass Senate.

Failed to pass pursuant to Senate Joint Resolution 1
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WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 1122

Legislative bill overview

SB 1122 would prohibit utility companies from recovering a rate of return on retired electric generating facilities, create an exemption from certificate requirements for constructing large electric generating facilities, and establish a permit dashboard to track applications for certificates of public convenience and necessity. The bill failed to pass in the Wisconsin Senate on March 23, 2026.

Why is this important

The bill addresses how ratepayers fund retired power plants and how quickly new generation can be built. Prohibiting returns on retired facilities could lower customer bills but may discourage utility investment in infrastructure. The exemption for large facilities could accelerate clean energy or natural gas projects but might bypass environmental and consumer protection reviews typically required by certificate processes.

Potential points of contention

  • Rate recovery fairness: Utilities argue they need returns on retired plants to cover stranded costs; consumer advocates argue ratepayers shouldn't subsidize outdated infrastructure
  • Environmental oversight: Exempting large facilities from certificate requirements may bypass environmental impact reviews and public input processes that protect communities
  • Investment incentives: Restricting returns on retired assets could reduce utility motivation to modernize aging infrastructure or transition away from coal plants
  • Permit transparency: While a dashboard increases accountability, it may create compliance burdens for regulatory agencies

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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