"Meeting the reliability needs of data centers helps the continued economic development success of our area," said John Drury (left), an MGE business development manager, with Don Larson, former TEAM director of operations.

Meeting energy needs

TEAM Technologies recently completed its first phase of their new data center in the Fitchburg Technology Campus. MGE provided a competitive, enhanced energy package that included redundant power feeds and large backup electric generation units. MGE worked closely with TEAM Technologies to design and construct a system to meet current and future power needs.

TEAM Technologies plans to invest $40 million in three phases at the data center site. Construction on phase two could begin later this year.

Assisting information technology entrepreneurs

The Metro Innovation Center opened recently near Madison's vibrant downtown with the help of MGE. This offshoot from the successful University Research Park targets high-tech entrepreneurs. MGE donated a central computer server that will help save energy and provide added value to start-up companies looking to open in Madison.

The information technology sector of our economy continues to grow and add new, high-paying jobs. In 2008, both Google and Microsoft opened offices and labs in Madison near the new Metro Innovation Center.