Wisconsin May Expend Funding for Manure Digester Technology

Wisconsin’s utility regulator is planning to spend more money on energy projects in rural areas, including a plan to help underwrite the use of systems that convert cattle manure into electricity.

The Associated Press reports that the systems known as manure digesters also help farms manage waste, which has become an increasingly controversial issue in Wisconsin as the size of dairy farms grows.

Wisconsin Public Service Commission officials say they’re considering spending $10 million to $20 million on manure digester technology.

The commission also voted Thursday to authorize at least $7.7 million in funding for rebates for solar, wind, and geothermal projects around the state that would keep a rebate program in place for energy consumers.

The program, Focus on Energy, has provided $8.5 million in rebates over the past two years.