Wisconsin’s solar sector has grown quickly over the last few years, with its 3.3GW of operational capacity enough for 18th among the 50 states, according to the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Currently, the state’s Public Service Commission (PSC) has the authority to approve energy projects, and the latest community solar bill would transfer some of this approval power to local groups, in an effort to accelerate the deployment of community solar projects. Luo suggested that utilities and community solar projects are often at odds because their business models are incompatible with one another’s. However, some Wisconsin utilities have sought to invest in the community solar sector, however. Alliant Energy operates two community solar projects in the state – the most recent of which, the 2.3MW Janesville project, came online in May this year – and it remains to be seen if the utility will object to this version of the Wisconsin community solar bill.