Wisconsin’s top four utilities have recently made a significant commitment to utilizing local union workers in clean energy projects throughout the state. Alliant Energy, Madison Gas & Electric, WEC Energy Group, and Xcel Energy have pledged to work with various unions such as the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters, Wisconsin Laborers’ District Council, and Wisconsin Operating Engineers Local 139 to ensure that union workers are employed in these projects.
The utilities in Wisconsin have announced their plans to transition towards a clean energy future, including the construction of utility scale solar, battery storage, and onshore wind projects. This move highlights a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy sources in the state.
Andrew Disch of the North Central States Regional Council of Carpenters Local Union expressed his excitement about this commitment, stating that it will not only help in building the state’s energy infrastructure but also contribute to the growth of the middle class and support local economies.
The Wisconsin Public Service Commission has estimated that nearly 19,000 construction jobs will be created to build these new clean energy developments, further emphasizing the positive impact that these projects will have on the state’s economy and workforce. This commitment to utilizing local union workers in clean energy projects marks a significant step towards a more sustainable future for Wisconsin.