In May, Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) filed for State regulatory approval to build a 20-megawatt (MW) solar array and 40-MW battery storage system known as the Sunnyside Solar Energy Center. The Fitchburg, Wis., project will provide locally generated solar energy to MGE's distribution system.
"MGE continues on our path toward deep decarbonization to achieve net-zero carbon electricity," said Jeff Keebler, MGE Chairman, President and CEO. "Carbon is our target, and our carbon reduction goals are aligned with science. Under our commitments, by 2030, MGE expects to deliver electricity with 80% fewer carbon emissions to every MGE electric customer. Similarly, by 2050, we expect to deliver net-zero carbon electricity to every MGE electric customer. We're decarbonizing our grid cost-effectively for the benefit of all customers."
Sunnyside Solar Energy Center
If approved, the Sunnyside Solar Energy Center is expected to generate enough electricity annually to serve about 6,000 households. The 40 MW of four-hour battery storage will provide electricity during times when energy demand is greatest and solar and/or wind is insufficient to meet all customer needs.
If approved, construction could begin in 2025, and both the solar array and battery storage system could begin serving customers by late 2026.
Working toward 80% reduced carbon emissions by 2030
The Sunnyside Solar Energy Center would be the latest project to help MGE achieve its industry-leading carbon reduction goals.
With the addition of the Red Barn Wind Farm and the second phase of the Badger Hollow Solar Farm in 2023 and Tyto Solar in February 2024, MGE has added 65 MW of wind and solar to our energy supply mix since early 2023 to serve all MGE electric customers.
More than 50 MW of solar generation is expected to be added to MGE's energy supply mix by the end of 2024 with projects currently in development. MGE continues to evaluate other potential clean energy investments as the company works toward net-zero carbon electricity.
