Utility officials say shift away from coal will be gradual

A trio of Wisconsin utility officials agreed the state will see a shift from coal as its primary energy source, although that move might come slower than some might like.

The panelists spoke in Madison at RENEW Wisconsin’s fifth annual Renewable Energy Policy Summit in a talk called “Shaping the Utility of the Future.” And the future, the three agreed, will consist of a broader mix of energy sources, including renewable ones.

Brian Rude, a former legislator now vice president of external and member relations at Dairyland Power, noted his utility has already increased its use of renewables from less than 1 percent in 2000 to 12.5 percent in 2014. “Our view of the future is we’re going to see a lot more renewables coming,” Rude said, getting applause from the audience.    ...more

Ken Notes: With oil under $30 it will be tough to keep the pressure on but solar wind and geo will continue to gain traction if we work as a team. Also if we are concerned about he middle east, realize that even at $30 we are funding their future...