Alliant Energy Presented with WEDA Organizational Excellence Award
Alliant Energy was presented with the Wisconsin Economic Development Association (WEDA) Organizational Excellence Award at the 2024 Governor’s Conference on Economic Development held in early February in Wisconsin Dells, WI. The prominent award, given every other year, was established to recognize WEDA member organizations that have demonstrated a sustained commitment to economic development and have made outstanding contributions to advancing Wisconsin’s economy.
“Alliant Energy is a valued WEDA member with a strong record of driving economic growth and an unwavering commitment to serving businesses vital to Wisconsin’s success. We are thrilled to recognize them with our Organizational Excellence Award,” said Mary Perry, WEDA President and CEO. “Alliant Energy’s leadership in the economic development space is exceptional, and their work on key state policies and economic incentives has opened the door to new investment in the Badger State.”
With roots dating back to 1917, Alliant Energy has played a key role in the attraction and retention of key Wisconsin industries. In addition to their dedication to fueling investment and growth in their service territory, Alliant Energy is being recognized for their leadership role in the passage of legislation to encourage the development of hyperscale data centers in Wisconsin. The new law, which creates a sales tax exemption for hardware and software used in large data centers, is a key business incentive that allows Wisconsin to be competitive with neighboring states. In fact, within weeks of the bill’s passage, Microsoft Corporation announced the development of a $1 billion data center in southeast Wisconsin.
“Our purpose-driven strategy to serve customers and build stronger communities is what sets us apart from our peers,” said Coleman Peiffer, manager of customer and community development at Alliant Energy. “We understand the more we grow and attract business in Wisconsin, the more it helps keep energy costs affordable for all our customers. Championing pro-growth policies and investing in economic development are among the many ways we deliver the energy solutions and exceptional service our customers and communities count on – safely, efficiently, and responsibly.”
The WEDA Organizational Excellence Awrad was created to acknowledge economic development organizations, businesses, and other entities dedicated to prosperity and growth. Past winners have excelled in innovative program development, introducing new services to market and providing solutions to local economic challenges.