We Energies Delays Oak Creek Coal Plant Closure Again, Citing Reliability Concerns

OAK CREEK, Wis. (Civic Media) – We Energies is delaying the closure of its Oak Creek coal plant for the third time, now planning to keep units 7 and 8 operating through the end of 2026. The utility says power supply conditions and concerns about grid reliability are the main reasons for the extension.

Mike Hooper, president of We Energies, says in a statement, “Reliability is at the forefront of everything we do. This decision will help us keep the lights on every day and every season.”

The 1960s-era units were originally scheduled to close at the end of 2025. They provide 610 megawatts of capacity and will remain online to help meet peak demand. The decision comes as the Midwest faces rising energy needs, driven by increased industrial activity and growing demand from data centers.

Environmental advocates warn the delay will increase costs for Wisconsin customers and slow progress toward renewable energy goals. “We Energies is going back on promises it made to communities long burdened by toxic air emissions from that plant,” said Ciaran Gallagher, Clean Wisconsin Energy and Air Manager.

A few weeks back, We Energies received approval to build two major natural gas plants in Oak Creek and Kenosha County. Despite the investments, the company says it needs the coal units as a backup.