The UW–Madison Extension has been granted $1 million by the U.S. Department of Energy to facilitate the siting of large-scale renewable energy projects through community engagement in Wisconsin. This funding is part of the $22 million allocated by the Inflation Reduction Act aimed at improving the planning and permitting processes for renewable energy and battery storage developments across the nation.

The initiative, known as Renewable Energy Siting and Engagement for Tomorrow (RESET), will be overseen by Sherrie Gruder and Diane Mayerfeld of the Extension. It is designed to assist local governments and communities with resources and expertise. The focus is on developing and updating solar and wind guidance, expanding educational outreach, and engaging rural and tribal communities. A coalition of groups are supported by the grant including: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, Clean Wisconsin, Wisconsin Land & Water, UW-Madison’s Office of Sustainability, Wisconsin Public Service Commission, Oneida Nation, Wisconsin Farmers Union, Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation, Apex Clean Energy and Wisconsin Towns Association.

RESET aims to build community wealth, enhance local workforce opportunities and deliver environmental benefits with renewable energy projects across the state.

For further information, contact Matthew Call at 608-262-7495 or email [email protected].