Assembly Bill 174 introduces comprehensive reforms to the regulation of transmission facilities and energy systems in Wisconsin. Key provisions include a competitive bidding requirement for contracts exceeding $1,000,000, an audit process for these contracts, and the establishment of rights for incumbent transmission facility owners. The bill mandates specific construction requirements for large wind, solar, and battery energy storage systems, particularly the purchase of agricultural conservation easements for projects on prime farmland. Additionally, it prioritizes nuclear energy as a state policy, requiring the installation of light-mitigating technology on certain energy systems and outlining penalties for non-compliance with bidding requirements.

The bill amends current law to position nuclear energy as a high-priority option for meeting the state's energy demands, ranking it just below energy efficiency and conservation. It emphasizes that state agencies and local governmental units should prioritize energy efficiency improvements and both renewable and nuclear energy resources in new projects, provided they are cost-effective and environmentally acceptable. Furthermore, it introduces lighting requirements for wind energy systems and high-voltage transmission line towers, mandating the installation of light-mitigating technology for structures over 200 feet tall and extending height permit requirements to utility structures. Overall, the bill aims to enhance the integration of nuclear energy into Wisconsin's energy framework while ensuring safety measures for tall structures.

Statutes affected:
Bill Text: 1.12(3)(b), 1.12, 1.12(5)(a), 16.75(12)(a)4, 16.75