250 MWac of solar projects energized in Wisconsin
Alliant Energy recently celebrated the energizing of three solar projects totaling 250 MWac in Wisconsin, part of their Clean Energy Blueprint. The projects located in Wood County (150 MWac), Bear Creek (50 MWac), and North Rock (50 MWac) were constructed by Burns & McDonnell. During the building phase, they faced a variety of challenges including the potential for tariffs on modules imported from Southeast Asia. In response, Alliant Energy took proactive steps to secure 1.5 million bifacial modules prior to the investigation's ruling. Fortunately, President Joe Biden announced a two-year tariff pause against imports from this region, eliminating any worry of retroactive penalties being applied. Now that these large-scale solar facilities are online, Alliant Energy can progress to the next suite of projects in their Blueprint.
This clean energy initiative was a remarkable feat, showcasing how organizations can work together towards sustainability even under difficult circumstances. The success of this project serves as an example for others considering large-scale solar installations. With continued policies encouraging renewable energy and technological advancements, many more will hopefully join Alliant Energy on their journey to a carbon-neutral future.