Kenosha Reporter

Invenergy has submitted a preliminary engineering plan to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) as an initial step toward obtaining approval for a new gas-fired power plant in Kenosha County. The proposed facility, called the Red Oak Ridge Project, would have a capacity of 1,210 megawatts.

The company’s preferred location for the plant is on land currently situated in the Town of Paris. This area falls within the growth boundaries of both the Village of Somers and the City of Kenosha, located just south of the Flint 94 Commerce Center. According to a 2017 intergovernmental agreement, if state regulators approve the project, these lands would be transferred into either the village or city.

If WDNR does not find significant environmental or site issues during its review, Invenergy will proceed with a formal application to the Public Service Commission (PSC) for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN). The PSC’s review process includes opportunities for public hearings and comments before making a final decision. Local government approvals are not required for this type of project; authority rests with state agencies.

More information about this project can be found at https://psc.wi.gov/Pages/ForUtilities/ElectricPowerGeneration.aspx.