Opponents seek rehearing on power line project in Wisconsin

Two local groups aiming to stop a recently approved high-voltage transmission line across western Wisconsin have petitioned state utility regulators for a new hearing on the $580 million project.

The Citizens Energy Task Force and Save Our Unique Lands petitioned the Public Service Commission on Wednesday for a rehearing on the panel’s decision last month to approve the line.

The proposed Badger-Coulee line is a joint venture between Minnesota-based Xcel Energy and Wisconsin-based American Transmission Company as part of the CapX2020 project running across both states. The La Crosse Tribune reported the companies say the project will improve system reliability, lower electricity rates and provide a pipeline for wind energy.

A group of 30 Dane County landowners filed a separate petition for a rehearing on Wednesday.