Dairyland Power expands area solar energy generation

LA CROSSE, Wis. (WKBT) — Dairyland Power Cooperative is expanding their solar energy generation, bringing more renewable energy to our area.

The two new locations in Wisconsin and one in Iowa will increase the cooperatives solar power from 15 megawatts to 20, which is enough to power more than three thousand homes.

Dairyland officials say they have their hands full with 20 megawatts, but their members may be expanding on Dairyland’s efforts.

“Our member electric cooperatives have some of their own projects, community solar projects that are piggy backing onto Dairyland’s utility scale projects, so you’re going to see a lot of solar activity here within the next 12 months,” says Dairyland’s Manager of Business Development Craig Harmes.

The solar sites will also serve as beneficial habitats for bees and butterflies.

Developers will use native seeds to create pollinator gardens, helping to sustain and grow bee and butterfly populations.