Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) is adding another renewable energy facility to power its customers with affordable, reliable and clean energy. The Hodag Solar Park — featuring 21,000 solar panels on 50 acres near Lake Julia in Rhinelander — went into service this month.
This is the region’s first large-scale solar facility. The Hodag Solar Park is capable of generating 7.5 megawatts, which is equal to powering more than 2,000 homes.
“This project is another example of our commitment to delivering affordable, reliable and clean energy to our customers,” said Scott Lauber, president — WPS. “We’re proud to add another source of renewable energy to power homes and businesses in north central Wisconsin.”
Project details
The Hodag Solar Park features state-of-the-art panels that can capture solar energy on both sides. The panels are mounted to a tracking system that follows the path of the sun across the sky.
WPS is acquiring the Hodag Solar Park from OneEnergy Renewables, the project’s developer. Construction of the facility began last July and was completed earlier this month.
Leading Wisconsin in renewable energy
The Hodag Solar Park is WPS’ third solar project to come online since 2020. The company also owns 100 megawatts (MW) of each of the groundbreaking Two Creeks and Badger Hollow solar parks, Wisconsin’s first large-scale solar facilities.
WPS and its parent company, WEC Energy Group, also are advancing plans for additional solar, wind and battery storage facilities in Wisconsin during the next five years.
Aggressively reducing carbon emissions
WEC Energy Group’s renewable energy investments are part of its commitment to build a bright, sustainable future. Recently, the company announced its plan to transition away from coal as a fuel source by 2035. Its long-term goal is to make its electric generation fleet net carbon neutral by 2050.
Along with its solar energy investments, WPS also has received verbal approval to purchase the Red Barn Wind Farm, a 92-MW wind facility being built in southwestern Wisconsin.