Identifying Opportunities for Wisconsin to Participate in Advanced Energy Manufacturing : An investigation into the State’s Real Capacity for Green Manufacturing

Abstract

We sought to answer this question: What is the capacity of the Wisconsin economy to be able to convert into the production of green energy technology. This project originated through a grant from the Tommy Thomson center for leadership. Using a combination of census data and proprietary industrial data we attempt to ascertain the State's real capacity to engage in the supply chains or direct production of so-called 'green' energy. Given the economic challenges posed by climate change is is critical that we understand our structural capacity to make the associated economics changes. It is also critical to the continued success of Wisconsin manufacturing that we are able to fully leverage likely changes in the demand for manufactured goods and services Through this project, we are able to provide policy makers with the capacity and resources needed for a transition into green energy and technologies in Wisconsin. We conclude that there significant challenges and opportunities for Wisconsin manufacturing as we move to a greener future.