MGE Sets Goal for Net-Zero Carbon Electricity by 2050

Goal is based on latest climate science.

MGE announced in May an ambitious target of net-zero carbon electricity by 2050. This new goal reflects our vision for our community and our efforts to align with the latest climate science.

MGE already has been working with customers to reduce carbon emissions at least 80% by 2050. Our new, net-zero carbon goal is ambitious—it will require technologies not yet commercially available—but we’re working to advance a cleaner energy future by engaging our customers in energy efficiency and advancing electric vehicles and renewable energy.

As next steps toward our goals, in April state regulators approved 100 megawatts (MW) of new solar energy for our customers. The Badger Hollow Solar Farm and the Two Creeks Solar project will deliver cost-effective, clean energy for decades to come! Here are answers to some of your questions about these major solar projects.

Where are these projects located?

The Badger Hollow Solar Farm will be located in southwestern Wisconsin near the villages of Montfort and Cobb. MGE will own 50 MW of Badger Hollow. The Two Creeks Solar project will be built in northeastern Wisconsin in the town of Two Creeks and the city of Two Rivers. MGE also will own 50 MW of Two Creeks Solar.

How much energy will these projects deliver?

MGE’s share of these projects will deliver enough energy to power about 33,000 households. Both sites are expected to be operational by the end of next year.

Why is MGE purchasing these solar projects?

Renewable energy has decreased in cost and increased in efficiency in recent years, making it a more competitive option for meeting our customers’ energy needs. The Badger Hollow Solar Farm and Two Creeks Solar offer cost-effective, clean energy and advance our goal of deep decarbonization of our energy supply mix.

We continue to evaluate other possible sites and projects for additional wind and solar generating facilities as we transition toward greater use of cleaner energy sources to serve our customers.

Why purchase energy from two locations?

There are a number of factors involved in siting solar. These projects will be located about 200 miles from each other. Purchasing solar in separate locations provides MGE with more consistent generation than a single site because weather conditions will be unique at each location. Stay tuned to energy2030together.com as construction unfolds.

published: May-30-2019