Proposed gas plants face strong opposition in Wisconsin

We Energies is planning to build two new natural gas plants in southeast Wisconsin, one in Kenosha County and another in Oak Creek. The company claims these plants are necessary to meet growing energy demands and address climate change. Dan Krueger, Vice President of Infrastructure and Planning at We Energies, explained that these plants will use clean-burning natural gas. They will operate only 10 to 20 percent of the time, stepping in when renewable energy sources cannot meet demand, especially during peak usage times. Despite this explanation, some local residents disagree with the plans. Dr. Victoria Gillet, a primary care physician, argues that natural gas contributes to air pollution, which affects everyone regardless of location. She believes renewable energy options, like solar and wind, are healthier and more environmentally friendly. Conversely, Thomas Moore, a construction union representative, supports the gas plants. He argues that renewable energy lacks the capacity to power large buildings and essential infrastructure that depend on natural gas. He believes more construction in the area requires reliable energy sources. Activists are voicing their opposition to the new gas plants at public meetings, advocating for more investment in renewable energy. We Energies acknowledges their renewable projects but maintains that they cannot consistently meet energy needs due to weather variability. A public service commission meeting is scheduled for next Tuesday to discuss these issues further.