Instead, we advocate a distributed resource strategy that prioritizes high efficiency natural gas microturbines in the meantime and fuel cells in the near future. Electric reliability concerns and demands for more power may bring about an explosion in distributed resources. Natural gas microturbines have a growing presence already in Wisconsin. Fuel cells are no longer laboratory curiosities and while not yet state of the shelf their promise grows as availability nears. Racine-based Modine Manufacturing is one of several firms developing fuel cell technologies.
Fuel cells turn hydrogen into reliable, efficient electricity with water as the by-product.
Market demand and working capital are necessary for these super-efficient energy sources to hit the broad market. Wisconsin could provide both through its energy policy, its economic development strategy, and investment of state funds. Reforming state energy policy can create the conditions for a uniquely Wisconsin high-tech manufacturing economy premised on efficiency and environmental superiority. We can reduce the 13.7 million tons of pollutants released into our environment by utility companies. And, hopefully, we can resolve the energy consumers' dilemma.