On Wednesday, May 22, 2019, the Wisconsin Future Caucus held a briefing and panel discussion on energy innovation and its role in the state’s economy. WI Future Caucus Co-Chairs, Representatives Adam Neylon (R) and Amanda Stuck (D), welcomed guests to the event organized to inform legislators and legislative staff on Wisconsin’s energy opportunities and policies that could accelerate growth in the sector.

The event highlighted how innovating energy markets could increase economic opportunity within Wisconsin, potentially retaining the $15-16 billion paid annually to outside energy suppliers. The discussion was moderated by Dr. Ryan Owens, the Director of the Tommy G. Thompson Center on Public Leadership, and a faculty member at UW-Madison. Panelists included subject matter experts Maria Redmond, Nick Hylla, and Ross Astoria.

Interest in expanding and diversifying Wisconsin’s energy portfolio has garnered bipartisan support. This past April, Wisconsin Future Caucus Co-Chair Rep. Adam Neylon unveiled an Earth Day plan to create “Clean Energy Corridor Grants” to fund investment in electric vehicle charging infrastructure along the state’s most travelled highways as well as connecting to similar corridors in neighboring states. The environmental protection package also offers a market-based solutions plan that includes renewable energy rebates and an education and training grant program for solar and wind energy installation.

“I was pleased to be involved in this discussion on the vital role energy innovation plays in Wisconsin’s economy. This is an important topic for me, and I look forward to continuing the work of finding market-based solutions to meet our state’s energy needs,” stated Rep. Neylon.

Citizens’ Climate Education, the Wisconsin Conservative Energy Forum, and the Midwest Renewable Energy Association also supported this event.

Watch Wisconsin Eye’s coverage from this event below: