First large solar project in Southeast Wisconsin now powering grid

December 30, 2024

GREEN BAY – The Paris Solar Park – the first large renewable energy project built in southeastern Wisconsin – is now fully operational and providing power to customers.

We Energies is the majority owner of the park, and Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) and Madison Gas and Electric are also co-owners.

Mike Hooper, president of WPS and We Energies, said the 200-megawatt (MW) project in the Kenosha County town of Paris features nearly 500,000 solar panels capable of providing enough energy to power about 60,000 homes. 

“This renewable energy project will support economic growth in the region and continues our commitment to deliver a bright, sustainable future for our customers and communities,” he said. “From frigid winter mornings through the hottest summer days, the Paris Solar Park is producing affordable, reliable and clean energy.”

Hooper said the park’s solar panels move and track the sun throughout the day, maximizing power generation. 

The panels also capture solar energy on both sides – which he said is an especially useful feature in winter when the sun reflects off the snow and onto the panels.

Hooper said the Paris Solar Park – already eligible for federal tax credits – will provide immediate and long-term savings to WPS and We Energies customers.

The park also features 110 MW of battery storage, he said, with a portion of the project still under construction but expected to be in service in 2025.

Hooper said the project was developed by U.S.-based Invenergy – a global developer, owner and operator of sustainable energy solutions – and was built primarily by Wisconsin union workers.