MGE Proposes Solar-Battery Project in Fitchburg
The Sunnyside Solar Energy Center would help MGE reach its carbon reduction goals.
In spring, MGE filed for State regulatory approval to build the Sunnyside Solar Energy Center, a 20-megawatt (MW) solar array and 40-MW battery storage system in Fitchburg. If approved, the project will provide locally generated solar energy and battery storage capacity to MGE's distribution system serving customers.
The 20 MW of solar capacity are expected to generate enough electricity to serve about 6,000 households each year. The 40 MW of four-hour battery storage would provide electricity during times when energy demand is greatest and when renewable energy is insufficient to meet all customer needs. Both the solar array and battery storage system could begin serving customers by late 2026.
Recent and upcoming renewable energy projects
With the addition of the Red Barn Wind Farm, the second phase of the Badger Hollow Solar Farm and Tyto Solar, MGE has added 65 MW of wind and solar since early 2023 to our energy supply mix serving all MGE electric customers. More than 50 MW of additional cost-effective solar generation is expected to be added to MGE's energy supply mix by the end of this year with projects currently in development. MGE also will own 30 MW of the Koshkonong Solar Energy Center, which is expected online in 2026.
Working toward 80% reduced carbon emissions by 2030
By 2030, MGE expects to deliver every MGE electric customer electricity with 80% fewer carbon emissions (based on 2005 levels). By growing our use of cost-effective, renewable energy, MGE is working toward our goal of net-zero carbon electricity by 2050 for all customers. Net-zero means the electricity used does not result in a net increase in carbon emissions, or the carbon that is produced is cancelled.
Adding more clean energy and working with customers to advance energy efficiency and the electrification of transportation are all key strategies for reducing carbon emissions.
published: Aug-29-2024