MGE Adds More Clean Energy to the Grid with Darien Solar

The 250-megawatt (MW) Darien Solar project in Rock and Walworth counties began serving MGE electric customers with cost-effective, carbon-free energy in early March. MGE owns 25 MW of solar capacity from the project.   

MGE’s share of the facility’s output will power the equivalent of about 7,500 households annually. The Darien Solar Energy Center also will have 75 MW of battery storage, which is expected online in 2026. MGE will own 7.5 MW of the battery storage. 

This latest project is another step toward MGE’s goal of deep decarbonization. By 2030, MGE expects to provide customers electricity with 80% fewer carbon emissions based on 2005 levels. MGE already is halfway to its 2030 goal, having reduced carbon about 40% since 2005. By 2050, the company expects to deliver net-zero carbon electricity while maintaining its commitment to safe, reliable and affordable energy.  

New Community Solar Program Proposed  

MGE is seeking regulatory approval to offer customers a new community solar program largely based on Shared Solar, MGE’s original and fully subscribed community solar program. Shared Solar – Strix would offer participants the option to pay a minimal up-front fee to subscribe to receive energy from MGE’s Strix Solar, a new 6-MW solar array in Fitchburg.  

MGE business and residential electric customers who choose to participate would receive carbon-free energy for up to 50% of their annual consumption and would lock in their energy rate for the term of the agreement. A low-income alternative also is proposed for the program.

Stay tuned to mge.com/sharedsolar for updates and to join the waiting list.