Wisconsin Considers Spending Energy Fees on Broadband Expansion

Some critics of the move are skeptical of the linkage between expanding broadband service and improved efforts to help utility customers save on their energy bills.

Wisconsin energy regulators are considering a move to expand funding for broadband Internet services via fees collected on monthly electric and natural gas bills.

The move is being contemplated, the state Public Service Commission says, with an eye toward expanding the reach of the state’s Focus on Energy program in rural parts of the state.

The PSC said that based on a preliminary review, utility customers in rural Wisconsin don`t participate in the Focus on Energy program as much as those in urban areas. Rural areas also are served by fewer broadband providers, the agency said....