Press Release:

For Immediate Release
   Media Contacts:
   George Edgar
   608.249.9322 x170
   gre@weccusa.orgm

We Energies Recognized for its Increased Use of Wind Energy

MADISON, Wis. (July 28, 2003) - The Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation (WECC) compliments We Energies for its increased commitment to renewable resources as evidenced by the announcement today that We Energies will acquire an additional 214 MW of cost-effective wind resources to supply its customers' needs. The announcement is an important step forward in developing cost-effective wind energy in Wisconsin>

According to George Edgar, Director of Policy at WECC, "There is no single energy source that will meet Wisconsin's future energy needs. But, renewable resources like wind are an important element of the mix of diverse resources that should shape our energy future. While the best option will always be to use energy more efficiently, cost-effective wind resources are especially desirable because they do not produce undesirable air emissions and serve as a hedge against fossil fuel price volatility. The We Energies announcement will help promote the increased development of cost-effective wind resources in Wisconsin".

We Energies will purchase the 214 MW of wind resources from two private wind developers. The projects are located in various areas in We Energies service territory. WECC's Edgar said, "Siting wind energy projects like the siting of any energy resource project should reflect a responsible approach of working with local communities and residents to alleviate reasonable concerns and maximize the benefits of such projects. Significant improvements in wind technology have not only greatly improved the cost-effectiveness of wind resources, but also have helped address earlier concerns about noise, potential impact on birds and potential damage risks. Available siting techniques can and should also be used to further mitigate any such concerns and to address other issues. We have no doubt that both the selected developers and We Energies recognize the importance of responsible siting to the future development of wind resources in Wisconsin."

Currently, wind resources receive a Production Tax Credit subsidy from the federal government to help promote a developing technology. (Other similar federal subsidies are provided to fossil fuel and nuclear energy resources even though some of these resources could hardly be called developing technologies.) Projects such as those announced by We Energies help further improve the economics of wind resources by allowing the industry to better capture economies of scale, which will continue to further reduce prices in the future.

About the Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation
Wisconsin Energy Conservation Corporation is a nonprofit organization based in Madison, Wis. Established in 1980, WECC is a national leader in designing and implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy programs that partner with private businesses to deliver value to consumers. It champions innovative energy initiatives that deliver short- and long-term economic and environmental benefits to consumers, businesses and policy makers. For more information about WECC, call 800.969.9322 or visit weccusa.org.

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