A new study conducted by PSE Healthy Energy for the Union of Concerned Scientists and Healthy Climate Wisconsin (HCW) has revealed that the construction of two new fossil gas power plants in Wisconsin could have significant negative health consequences for communities in the state and beyond. The analysis found that the proposed Oak Creek and Paris gas plants could lead to up to $5.7 billion in health and economic costs over a 30-year period.
The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) is currently reviewing proposals by Wisconsin Electric Power Company, also known as We Energies, for the construction of these two new gas plants. One of the projects, located in Paris, WI, would total 128 megawatts (MW), while the other, situated in Oak Creek, WI, would be sized at 1,100 MW on the site of a retiring coal-fired power plant.
Despite We Energies’ claims that the new gas plants are necessary for replacing coal plants and meeting the energy needs of users such as a new Microsoft data center, many in Wisconsin are opposing the construction. The Power Wisconsin Forward coalition, comprised of community groups, public health organizations, and environmental advocates, is advocating for a transition to a clean energy economy and raising awareness about the potential health risks associated with increased reliance on fossil gas infrastructure.
The health impacts of gas power plants are significant, as they emit pollutants such as nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds, which can exacerbate conditions like heart disease and asthma and increase the risk of premature death. In partnership with HCW, the Union of Concerned Scientists has intervened in the Oak Creek gas plant case to highlight the public health risks posed by fossil gas pollution in nearby communities.
The analysis conducted by PSE Healthy Energy found that the proposed Oak Creek gas plant could result in health and economic impacts totaling up to $144.8 million annually, while the Paris facility could lead to costs of up to $47.4 million annually, including premature mortalities. These costs would accumulate over a 30-year period, amounting to as much as $5.7 billion for both plants.
Furthermore, the addition of these gas plants would place additional burdens on communities already disproportionately affected by environmental pollution. Both locations near the Paris and Oak Creek sites experience elevated levels of ozone and particulate matter, indicating existing environmental health risks in these communities. The populations living near these facilities, particularly in Paris, are vulnerable due to factors such as low income and advanced age.
The construction of these gas plants would not only come at a high financial cost but also pose risks to public health and exacerbate environmental injustices. It is crucial for Wisconsin and the PSCW to prioritize clean, renewable energy solutions that are affordable, reliable, and sustainable in the long term.
As the PSCW continues to review the proposals for the gas plants, public comments are being accepted for the Paris gas plant case until February 17th, with public hearings scheduled for February 5th. The comment period for the Oak Creek gas plant case is expected to run from late January through March, with public hearings planned for March 25th. Individuals can stay updated on the PSCW’s schedule and submit comments in support of clean energy alternatives through their website.
