While I was in Madison this week, I was honored to speak at the Community Solar Advocacy Day event about my bill that would pave the way for community solar in the Badger State.

Joining me was my Assembly co-author, Representative Scott Krug.

As it currently stands in Wisconsin, the Public Service Commission and a few monopoly utilities essentially get to call all the shots when it comes to approving energy projects and price increases. This has resulted in our state having some of the highest electricity rates in the Midwest.

Making matters worse, the state Legislature and local governments are basically excluded from being involved in the entire process.

We are trying to change that with Senate Bill 559, which opens the door for community solar in Wisconsin.

To be clear, we are not talking about corporate-run solar farms that take up large amounts of land. Community solar projects are smaller, smarter and more locally driven. They are often located on portions of unused farm property, creating an additional revenue stream for our farmers.

Under my legislation, residents would be able to subscribe to locally generated clean power and see credits directly on their utility bills without the expense of installing panels on their own roofs. This would have a significant impact on lowering energy fees for Wisconsin families.

Just as important, SB 559 finally gives local municipalities a say in where solar arrays are constructed by requiring a two-thirds vote of the respective zoning authority.

It’s well past time that Wisconsin breaks the status quo and embraces community solar. That will allow us to drive down costs, cut government red tape, strengthen local control, create jobs, break up monopolies and let competition drive innovation.