Office of Energy

The Office of Energy (OE) is responsible for coordinating the DNR´s review of all proposed energy and utility projects in the state. We provide project management within DNR, acting as the main point of contact for project applicants, the Public Service Commission (PSC), other DNR programs, and affected stakeholders. We provide statewide guidance and consistent application of the regulatory processes established by statutes and rules. We provide a corps of experienced natural resource experts who also understand the specifics of energy and utility projects.

While our primary mission is to coordinate the regulatory review for siting utility projects, we also serve all DNR programs by developing guidance and information on natural resources issues as they relate to the broader planning and infrastructure development efforts for Wisconsin’s energy future.

The Wisconsin DNR and the Public Service Commission (PSC) [exit DNR] of Wisconsin signed a Cooperative Agreement [PDF 23KB] that outlines how the two agencies interact on the review of energy & utility projects.

The Office of Energy is the central point of coordination within the Wisconsin DNR for most energy & utility projects including:

• Power Plants,
• Electric Transmission & Distribution Lines,
• Natural Gas & Petroleum Pipelines,
• Telecommunication Lines,
• Wind Power Projects, and
• Water Utility Projects.

Office of Energy Contact Information

WDNR Office of Energy, OE/7,
101 S. Webster Street,
Madison, WI 53707

• Dave Siebert, Director, (608) 264-6048
• Ben Callan, Wetland & Waterways, (608) 266-3524
• Cheryl Laatsch, Wetland & Waterways, (608) 264-8943
• Linda Talbot, Wetland & Waterways, (608) 266-8148
• Shari Koslowsky, Endangered Resources Specialist, & Wind Projects (608) 261-4382
• Jeff Schimpff, Project Manager, (608) 267-7853
• Tim Ryan, Erosion Control & Stormwater Management, (608) 266-5239
• Jim Pardee, Project Manager & WEPA Coordinator, (608) 266-0426

Related Sites

• Office of Energy Independence
• P.O.W.E.R. Initiative
• Public Service Commission (PSC)
• Wisconsin Focus on Energy
• US Army Corps of Engineers (USACE)
• Citizens Utility Board
• Biofuels, Bioenergy, Ethanol--DNR has developed a guidance document that focuses on Ethanol and Bio-diesel. The Bio-Fuel Guidance Document is now available under the Biofuels link located at POWER Wisconsin. The document provides a comprehensive overview of the regulatory requirements businesses need to consider.
• Consumer Conservation Ideas

For more information on DNR's Office of Energy please contact:
Dave Siebert
(608) 264-6048