Wisconsin 2025-2026 Regular Session

Wisconsin Assembly Bill AB1151

Introduced
3/13/26  
Refer
3/13/26  

Caption

An Act to amend 196.027 (1) (f); to create 196.027 (1) (d) 3. of the statutes; Relating to: securitization of retiring power plants. (FE)

Impact

The implications of AB1151 on state laws are significant, as the bill effectively allows energy utilities to recover the costs associated with the retirement of polluting plants more efficiently through bond issuance. Supporters argue that the financial burden on utilities can be alleviated, making the transition to cleaner energy sources financially viable. Thus, it paves the way for phasing out nonrenewable plants and advancing towards a greener energy landscape. Critics, however, may raise concerns about the accountability and the potential cost to customers, as the issuance of bonds creates an obligation that consumers will ultimately have to pay for through their utility bills.

Section

The bill is anticipated to initiate discussions on regulatory frameworks related to environmental control costs, retirement of nonrenewable facilities, and the financial implications for consumers. As the legislature deliberates on AB1151, attention will be paid to its potential long-term benefits versus immediate impacts on utility bills and environmental health.

Summary

Assembly Bill 1151 focuses on the securitization of retiring power plants that are fueled by nonrenewable combustible energy resources. Introduced to the legislature, the bill seeks to amend existing statutes by allowing energy utilities to issue bonds for financing activities related to the retiring of these existing electric generating facilities. This move aims to mitigate the environmental impact of such plants, consistent with federal and state regulations. By defining the retirement of these facilities as an 'environmental control activity,' the legislation opens the door for financing through 'environmental trust bonds,' which are secured by revenues from utility customers. This measure is seen as a step towards reducing environmental pollution associated with nonrenewable energy plants.

Contention

Notable points of contention surrounding AB1151 likely arise from the balance between facilitating financial mechanisms for utility companies and the overarching responsibility to protect consumers and the environment. Some stakeholders might voice concerns that the bill prioritizes utility interests over environmental justice by enabling the continued use of nonrenewable energy sources for longer, potentially perpetuating pollution issues. The discourse surrounding the bill will require careful consideration of regulatory and environmental guidelines to ensure that transition efforts do not disproportionately impact marginalized communities.

Companion Bills

WI SB1120

Crossfiled An Act to amend 196.027 (1) (f); to create 196.027 (1) (d) 3. of the statutes; Relating to: securitization of retiring power plants. (FE)

Previously Filed As

WI SB1120

Securitization of retiring power plants. (FE)

WI HB1342

An Act to amend and reenact ยงยง 2.2, 3.1 and 5.2, as amended, of Chapter 319 of the Acts of Assembly of 1966, which provided a charter for the City of Fairfax, relating to financial powers; city elections; council powers.

WI AB100

An act to amend the Budget Act of 2023 (Chapters 12, 38, and 189 of the Statutes of 2023) by amending Items 5227-122-0001 and 7502-495 of Section 2.

WI SB2471

Relating To The Powers Of Artificial Persons.

WI HB298

An Act To Amend Title 12 Of The Delaware Code Relating To The Creation, Regulation, Operation, And Dissolution Of Statutory Trusts.

WI SB0100

Campaign finance: statements and reports; definition of gift; modify. Amends secs. 3, 5, 7, 11, 13 & 15 of 2023 PA 282 (MCL 169.303 et seq.) & adds sec. 6.

WI SB3225

A Bill For An Act Relating To Statutory Revision: Amending Or Repealing Various Provisions Of The Hawaii Revised Statutes Or The Session Laws Of Hawaii For The Purposes Of Correcting Errors And References, Clarifying Language, Or Deleting Obsolete Or Unnecessary Provisions.

WI SR158

Applying To The United States Congress To Call An Article V Convention To Propose Certain Limited Amendments To The United States Constitution.

WI HB4077

Relating to the securitization of a public utility's insurance program; and prescribing an effective date.

WI H3570

Disclosure of Economic Interests

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