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AB 1167

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 Dave Armstrong and 6 co-sponsors

Wisconsin bill prohibits utility profits from retired power plants, exempts large generators from permits, and adds public tracking for utility applications to accelerate energy transition.

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Bill Summary · AB 1167

Legislative bill overview

AB 1167 proposes three changes to Wisconsin's electric utility regulation: prohibiting utilities from recovering financial returns on retired power plants, exempting large new electric generating facilities from certain certificate requirements, and creating a public dashboard tracking applications for utility construction permits. The bill streamlines renewable energy development while limiting utility compensation for legacy fossil fuel infrastructure.

Why is this important

This bill directly affects Wisconsin's energy transition timeline and costs. Restricting returns on retired plants incentivizes utilities to phase out aging coal/fossil infrastructure faster, while exempting large generators from permit requirements could accelerate renewable energy project deployment. However, these changes ultimately affect electricity rates and grid reliability planning, impacting both consumers and energy companies.

Potential points of contention

  • Utility economics: Prohibiting rate recovery on retired facilities may discourage utilities from retiring aging plants voluntarily, potentially forcing stranded asset losses on shareholders rather than ratepayers
  • Regulatory streamlining vs. oversight: Exempting large generators from certificate requirements reduces public input opportunities and environmental review, raising concerns about environmental and community impacts
  • Rate implications: Changes could shift costs between different consumer groups, with unclear impacts on residential versus industrial electricity rates
  • Grid reliability: Faster retirement of existing capacity without guaranteed replacement could create generation gaps if renewable projects face delays

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

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