Western Wisconsin hearings set for CapX2020 project

MADISON, Wis. — The Wisconsin Public Service Commission has set March dates for public hearings on a proposed transmission line project that would run through parts of western Wisconsin.

The CapX2020 project would build about 150-miles of powerlines from Minnesota to Wisconsin that cross the river at Alma and then run toward La Crosse.

The 11 utility companies that are part of the project, including Xcel Energy and Dairyland Power Cooperative, say the line is needed to get energy to a population that has grown and is using more energy since the last infrastructure upgrade 30 years ago.

Opponents, including the Citizens Energy Task Force, say CapX2020 is not needed. They say studies show there is plenty of energy in western Wisconsin and that the power lines, which are one hundred feet tall, or more, would harm habitat and scenic views along the Mississippi River.

The Public Service Commission is holding public hearings on the following dates and times:

March 13 – 1:00pm and 6:00pm – Alma American Legion (501 North Main Street)
March 14 – 1:00pm and 6:00pm – Centerville Community Center (W24854 Highway 54/93)

Public comment on the project needs to be received by the Public Service Commission by March 7. You can click here to submit a comment online, or send a comment to this address:

Docket 5-CE-136 Comments
Public Service Commission
P.O. Box 7854
Madison, WI 53707-7854