Summer 2026

MGE has launched a new Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) Injection Pilot to help expand opportunities for customers to participate in renewable energy. 

The program enables customers who produce RNG to interconnect directly with and inject gas into MGE’s natural gas distribution system—putting captured gas to productive use instead of flaring it off or transporting it elsewhere.

What is RNG? 

RNG is created from organic waste materials such as agricultural waste, food scraps, yard and crop waste. As these materials break down, they produce biogas that can be captured, processed and purified. 

Unlike traditional natural gas that is extracted from underground deposits, RNG comes from renewable, degradable carbon sources. Once purified, RNG can be safely and effectively used just like conventional natural gas and delivered through existing pipeline systems.

The RNG process

Creating value from existing operations 

For businesses that already produce RNG, getting that gas to market can be a challenge. In many cases, it must be transported to an injection site. 

MGE’s program offers another option. By allowing direct interconnection to the distribution system, the program can help reduce transportation needs—supporting cost management and operational efficiency for participating customers. 

Customers also may have the opportunity to contract with MGE or third parties to sell the gas they produce, along with its associated environmental attributes. 

Supporting sustainability goals 

RNG supports broader environmental goals by capturing methane emissions that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere. Because it is derived from organic waste, RNG can be carbon-neutral—or even carbon-negative. 

For MGE, the program represents another step toward incorporating fossil-free energy into the system while maintaining the reliability our customers expect.

Designed for large-scale producers

The RNG Injection Pilot is intended for commercial and industrial customers that generate significant volumes of organic material, such as agricultural operations, wastewater treatment facilities and landfills. 

Participation is limited to a small number of customers, and projects must meet technical and economic feasibility requirements. Factors such as proximity to existing pipelines and system capacity play an important role in determining whether a project is a good fit.   

Pilot participants will pay for, own and maintain all equipment necessary for the delivery of RNG at the point of interconnection. MGE will install gas quality check equipment and piping in rights-of-way. 

A phased approach 

MGE launched the program earlier this year and is taking a measured approach as we work with initial participants. The process includes engineering design, interconnection agreements and system integration to ensure safety and reliability. As procedures are refined and experience grows, additional opportunities may become available.  

Customers interested in participating can begin by submitting an inquiry to MGE. From there, the project team will evaluate feasibility and work with customers through the next steps.