SOUL grew together  in mid 1999 as an educated group of citizens in Wisconsin who questioned the need for a 220 mile proposed transmission line project.  In 1994 the line had been denied futher study, as the Public Service Commission staff argued "in addition to other problems, this line would have an unacceptable effect on Wisconsin's natural resources".
As a group, we sought out just what these problems were, and we found plenty!  Along the way, we gained so much information about not only the transmission line we opposed, but the dynamics of renewable energy, social justice, and government in Wisconsin. 

We also learned the power of people forming a strong coalition reaching not only from one end of this 220 mile project to the other, but far broader, as we connected with many other organizations and groups worldwide.

We remain dedicated to the promotion of renewable energy, promotion of social justice, and land use rights for  all. 

SOUL attended hearings, meetings, created coalitions with groups in both Wisconsin and Minnesota ( this project crossed 12 miles as it's connection with the grid originated in Minnesota).   We worked with all levels of government in both states, and educated as many citizens as we could along the way. 

After years of involvement, we were vindicated at last, as the transmission line project was stopped in Douglas County, as the county board listened to its tax paying residents, who insisted they refuse to allow the transmission line to pass through the large county forest.  The constructing utility knew they could not both construct the transmission line and not pass through Douglas county land.  So...

The celebration was brief, as a new Wisconsin law sailed through both houses in record time allowing eminant domain to be used on county property. 

This is why SOUL works to promote renewable energy at the community level, and for reform of the Public Service Commission.