Wisconsin Electric Power seeks approval for Paris RICE project construction

The Public Service Commission (PSC) of Wisconsin convened on May 22, 2025, to discuss the application from Wisconsin Electric Power Company for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) to construct and operate the Paris reciprocating internal combustion engine (RICE) project. This facility, which will consist of seven generators with a total capacity of approximately 128 megawatts, is designed to enhance the reliability of the energy grid in response to anticipated increases in energy demand.

The proposed project will include a 138 kilovolt generator tie line connecting the new facility to the existing Paris solar collector substation. The construction is estimated to cost around $279.6 million, with an additional $23.7 million allocated for funds used during construction. An environmental impact statement (EIS) was prepared to analyze the potential economic, social, cultural, and environmental effects of the project, ensuring transparency for the commission and stakeholders.

The meeting highlighted significant public interest, with 466 comments submitted through the PSC website from various parties, including the Citizens Utility Board, Clean Wisconsin, and the Town of Paris. The Paris RICE project is seen as a crucial step for Wisconsin Electric Power Company to meet the expected load growth in its service area over the coming years. The RICE technology is noted for its flexibility and ability to complement renewable energy sources like solar and wind, particularly during periods of low generation.

While some intervening parties raised concerns about the necessity of the project, citing modeling analyses that suggested alternative resources could meet future needs, the commission emphasized the importance of planning for forecasted load increases. The modeling conducted for this project indicated that the Paris RICE facility is a suitable resource to address these demands, despite some scenarios showing that other generation options might be more economically favorable under different conditions.

The PSC acknowledged the ongoing transition towards carbon-free resources and the role of dispatchable generation in maintaining grid reliability as renewable energy sources become more prevalent. The commission's decision on the Paris RICE project will be influenced by the evidence presented, which supports the project's potential to enhance the energy infrastructure while contributing to a diverse and reliable energy portfolio for Wisconsin. Further discussions on environmental impacts and decision items will continue as the commission evaluates the application.