The U.S. DOE, via a UPVG Team-Up grant, and NSP ratepayers pay the remainder. Both add value to the product. The goal of SolarWise is to install a 12 kW photovoltaic system on every feasible high school rooftop in WPS s service territory. A contribution reminder is shown on the bill. WPS ratepayers and federal funds also support the projects.
Contributions are tax-deductible.
In addition, a bill stuffer was included in allresidential customer bills. This program is capitalizing on the visibility of schools and their importance in providing a community focus. Although these are existing facilities, the biomass plant had not generated electricity for over ten years, and the hydro plants have been underutilized. Customers choosing the 100 percent option will see a 30 percent increase in their bills. When the program was approved it was criticized by local environmental groups for selecting renewable projects from out of state.