Introduction to Electricity and Large-Scale Solar

 

RESET: Engaging Wisconsin Communities in Renewable Energy

Introduction to Electricity and Large-Scale Solar

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How do large-scale wind and solar fit into the grid?

Wisconsin’s electric grid is run by the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO), which helps keep electricity reliable and affordable across multiple states. The state uses a mix of energy sources like natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind, and solar. Large-scale wind and solar projects (1 megawatt or bigger) are now among the cheapest ways to produce new electricity.

FAQs
Resources
Solar panels in a field

Electricity 101 FAQs

How does the electrical grid work in Wisconsin? 

Wisconsin’s grid is operated by MISO, which balances electricity supply and demand across a multi-state region in real time. MISO coordinates utilities and transmission infrastructure to maintain reliability and manage long-term planning needs.

Where does Wisconsin’s electricity come from? 

In 2024, natural gas produced about 40% of Wisconsin’s electricity, coal 32%, nuclear 15%, and renewable resources (solar, wind, hydro) 12%. In recent years the proportion of coal has fallen, while wind and solar generation have grown. Wisconsin currently consumes more energy than it produces and spends billions annually importing fossil fuels.

Where does the electricity that’s generated go?

Electricity generated by any type of power plant enters the grid.  It becomes part of MISO’s overall supply that serves homes and businesses across 15 states.  Managing base loads and peak demand means that, depending on the grid’s supply and demand at a given moment, your electricity might come from the closest source or a plant hundreds of miles away.

Additional Electricity 101 FAQ’s

Electricity 101 Resources

MISO 101 Primer

This guide by the Great Plains Institute explains how the Midcontinent Independent System Operator (MISO) manages the electric grid and keeps power flowing reliably. It breaks down complex grid operations into simple, easy-to-understand concepts.

Wisconsin State Energy Profile

The U.S. Energy Information Administration provides key facts about Wisconsin’s energy use and where its electricity comes from. It includes data on different energy sources like natural gas, coal, wind, and solar.

Wisconsin Solar State Spotlight

This resource from the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) highlights the growth of solar energy in Wisconsin, including installed capacity, jobs, and future projects. It gives a quick snapshot of how solar is contributing to the state’s economy and energy mix.

Levelized Cost of Energy + Report (LCOE+)

This report from Lazard compares the cost of different ways to generate electricity, like solar, wind, and fossil fuels. It helps show why large-scale solar is often one of the most affordable options today.