EXHIBIT 23.1 CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this registration statement of our report on the consolidated financial statements of Alliant Energy Corporation dated January 29, 2001 included in Alliant Energy Corporation's Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2000 and to all references to our Firm included in this registration statement. /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP Milwaukee, Wisconsin December 10, 2001