Democratic representatives introduced a renewable energy bill Wednesday that would raise Wisconsin’s renewable energy goals.

 

The bill would mandate the state achieve 30 percent renewable energy production by 2030. Currently, the state must meet 10 percent renewable energy by 2015.

 

State Representatives Katrina Shankland, D-Stevens Point, Mark Miller, D-Monona and Cory Mason, D-Racine, said the legislation would create jobs and reduce dependence on fossil fuels, according to a statement.

 

Shankland said it would give companies the opportunity to get ahead of Environmental Protection Agency regulations and set up long-term policy.

 

“It’s a win win,” Shankland said. “It’s good for our economy and its good for the environment.”

 

RENEW Wisconsin, a nonprofit renewable energy advocacy organization, said the bill would put Wisconsin on the right track for renewable energy investment.

 

“Adopting the Wisconsin Renewable Energy Act would help re-establish Wisconsin’s long-standing leadership in renewable energy and Wisconsin-based job creation,” RENEW Wisconsin Executive Director Tyler Huebner said.