Renewable Energy Systems in Wisconsin

Solar Electric Systems

• The state of Wisconsin's fastest growing source of renewable energy is solar electricity. The solar electric system has the ability to convert the energy from the sun into clean, emission-free electricity. This can account for some or all of your electricity. During the last decade, solar electricity has become increasingly popular with homeowners, farmers and business owners. With the cost of components for solar electricity continuing to decrease, this renewable energy source has become more affordable.

Solar Hot-Water Systems

• Solar hot water heating systems are an efficient and reliable renewable energy source in Wisconsin. Solar water heating systems work with your current gas or electric hot water heater system and turn the sunshine into hot water. Solar hot water systems can provide half of the hot water needs for the average home or business in Wisconsin and can also be used in industrial businesses or to heat swimming pools.

Wind Electric Systems

• Windmills or wind turbines are popping up throughout the United States on farms, at factories and at schools. Wind electric systems generate power without pollution and can be used for a variety of applications, including pumping water on farms. Wind turbines are an efficient and reliable source of renewable energy, stemming from years of research and experience. Wind electric systems can lower electricity bills by as much as 50 to 90 percent.

Biomass Combustion Systems

• A variety of organic materials can be converted into fuel and, in turn, be used to produce electricity. Wisconsin is home to a large biomass resource. Its forests, prairies and grasses are just a few of the renewable resources that can be converted into fuel and used for heat in local homes, businesses and schools. As an added benefit, the use of biomass resources also supports the local Wisconsin economy.

Biogas Digester System

• Biogas digesters, or anaerobic digestion systems, manage high-strength waste containing biomethane from Wisconsin farms, food processing facilities and waste water treatment facilities. Biomethane is created by heating up and then breaking down biomaterials in a biogas digester. Wisconsin is the nation's leader with its number of operating dairy farm anaerobic digestion systems. These systems convert manure from cows into electricity.