New Solar Project Powers MGE Customers
Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) has officially announced that the 250-megawatt (MW) Darien Solar Energy Center, located in Rock and Walworth counties, is now operational and supplying clean, cost-effective, and carbon-free energy to MGE electric customers. This project represents another significant step forward in the company’s ongoing efforts to expand its use of renewable energy sources and reduce its carbon footprint.
MGE owns a 25 MW share of the solar capacity from the Darien Solar Energy Center, ensuring a portion of the generated power directly benefits its customers. Additionally, the company will own 7.5 MW of battery storage from the facility, contributing to a total of 75 MW of battery storage expected to come online by 2026. These energy storage capabilities will allow for more reliable and efficient use of solar power, ensuring that excess energy can be stored and used during periods of high demand or when sunlight is unavailable.
Jeff Keebler, Chairman, President, and CEO of MGE, emphasized the company’s commitment to sustainability and carbon reduction: “Carbon is our target, and the Darien Solar Energy Center is another important step as we continue our progress toward achieving our science-based carbon reduction goals. MGE’s investments to enable our continued transition toward deep decarbonization of our energy supply also serve to ensure that all our customers share in the economic and environmental benefits of our more sustainable energy future.”
A Major Milestone for Renewable Energy in Wisconsin
The Darien Solar Energy Center is situated on approximately 2,000 acres in the town of Bradford in Rock County and the town of Darien in Walworth County. With its substantial generation capacity, the facility is expected to produce enough electricity to power approximately 75,000 households annually. Of that, MGE’s share will provide enough energy to power around 7,500 homes each year.
The remaining 225 MW of solar output and 67.5 MW of battery storage capacity from the project are owned by We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service (WPS), both subsidiaries of WEC Energy Group. The project was developed by Invenergy LLC, a U.S.-based company known for its expertise in renewable energy development.
The implementation of battery storage at the Darien facility marks a critical advancement in energy reliability and sustainability. By storing excess solar energy during peak production periods, the batteries can help mitigate fluctuations in solar power generation and provide electricity during times of lower solar output, such as at night or on cloudy days. This technology is crucial for ensuring a stable and resilient energy grid as the transition to renewable energy accelerates.
Advancing Toward an 80% Reduction in Carbon Emissions by 2030
MGE’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint is a central part of its broader sustainability strategy. The company is actively working to achieve deep decarbonization in alignment with global climate science, implementing initiatives that support cost-effective and responsible carbon reductions.
By 2030, MGE aims to reduce carbon emissions associated with its electricity generation by 80% compared to 2005 levels. This ambitious goal reflects MGE’s dedication to transforming its energy portfolio and delivering clean energy solutions to customers. Moreover, by 2050, MGE has set an even more ambitious target: delivering net-zero carbon electricity.
These targets are not just aspirational; they are backed by significant investments in renewable energy projects like the Darien Solar Energy Center. In fact, MGE has already achieved a 40% reduction in carbon emissions since 2005, meaning it is halfway to reaching its 2030 goal.
The Role of Renewable Energy in Wisconsin’s Energy Landscape
Wisconsin has been making strides in adopting renewable energy, and projects like the Darien Solar Energy Center are pivotal to the state’s clean energy transition. The increasing integration of solar and wind energy, coupled with advancements in battery storage, is helping to create a more sustainable and resilient energy grid.
As part of this broader trend, MGE has been expanding its renewable energy portfolio with additional solar projects, wind farms, and energy efficiency initiatives. By investing in large-scale solar energy centers and collaborating with other utilities and developers, MGE is ensuring that its customers benefit from affordable, sustainable, and reliable power.
Benefits of the Darien Solar Energy Center
The Darien Solar Energy Center brings several significant benefits to both MGE customers and the broader community:
- Environmental Benefits: By replacing fossil-fuel-based energy with solar power, the project helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, contributing to cleaner air and a healthier environment.
- Economic Savings: Solar energy is one of the most cost-effective sources of electricity. Over time, the stable and low-cost nature of solar power can help protect customers from fluctuating fossil fuel prices.
- Energy Security and Reliability: The integration of battery storage allows for greater energy security by storing excess energy for use during periods of low solar production. This enhances the reliability and stability of the electricity supply.
- Job Creation and Economic Growth: The construction and operation of the Darien Solar Energy Center have supported local jobs and provided economic benefits to the surrounding communities.
Partnering with Customers for a Sustainable Future
MGE is not only investing in large-scale renewable energy projects but also working closely with customers to advance energy efficiency and the electrification of transportation. These efforts include:
- Energy Efficiency Programs: MGE provides incentives and resources to help residential and business customers reduce their energy consumption through improved insulation, energy-efficient appliances, and smart energy management solutions.
- Electric Vehicle (EV) Initiatives: MGE is supporting the transition to electric vehicles by expanding EV charging infrastructure and offering programs to encourage EV adoption. The widespread adoption of EVs powered by clean electricity is a crucial part of reducing overall carbon emissions.
- Renewable Energy Programs: Customers who want to further support clean energy can participate in MGE’s voluntary renewable energy programs, such as the Green Power Tomorrow program, which allows customers to purchase renewable energy credits.
A Bright Future for Clean Energy
The Darien Solar Energy Center is just one piece of MGE’s broader strategy to lead the transition to a low-carbon energy future. As the company continues to invest in renewable energy, expand its battery storage capabilities, and partner with customers to drive energy efficiency, it remains on a strong path toward meeting its carbon reduction goals.
With projects like Darien and others in the pipeline, MGE is demonstrating its commitment to sustainability, economic responsibility, and the long-term well-being of the communities it serves. As new technologies emerge and the cost of renewable energy continues to decline, MGE will continue exploring innovative solutions to deliver clean, affordable, and reliable energy to all its customers.
