Regulators defend renewable energy cuts

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Wisconsin regulators are defending a decision to cut renewable energy funding from a popular utilities program despite criticism from businesses around the state.

Public Service Commission spokeswoman Kristin Ruesch said a Focus on Energy program geared toward renewable energy was over budget and not cost effective. The program offers incentives to businesses and residents to install renewable energy systems.

About 150 Wisconsin renewable energy supporters signed an open letter to the PSC on Monday criticizing them for not clearly saying when funding may be restored. But a PSC response sent Wednesday now says it will have an estimate by the end of March.

Critics say the program’s suspension is damaging the state’s renewable energy marketplace.