Renewable Energy Rider

solarConnecting business customers to renewable energy resources

Madison Gas and Electric (MGE) recently launched a new pilot program to serve business customers with renewable energy resources. This new service, called the Renewable Energy Rider (RER), can provide renewable energy to power all or a portion of your business. MGE is the first utility in Wisconsin to offer this opportunity.

This new model allows MGE to partner with business customers—including those looking to relocate or expand in our service territory. The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin (PSCW) has set an overall program participation limit of 25 megawatts for existing customer load in MGE's service area. New facilities or expanded load would not be subject to that limit.

Renewable Energy Rider (RER) program

This RER program gives MGE the ability to work cooperatively with you to tailor a renewable energy solution for your business—including building new renewable generation.

Under the RER, we will work together to develop a contract to serve all or a significant portion of your business' electric needs with renewable generation. You will be responsible for costs associated with sourcing the renewable generation and any distribution costs to deliver the energy to your business.

Eligibility

The RER is available for both existing and new customers with a minimum electric demand level of 200 kilowatts (kW). Renewable energy purchased through the RER can equal up to 100% of your aggregated load.

Eligible customers are served under the following MGE rate schedules:

  • Cg-2
  • Cg-4*
  • Cg-6
  • Sp-3
  • Cp-1

*Note: Cg-4 customers can aggregate their load under a single contract to meet the minimum demand level of 200 kW.

Structure

You would be allowed to substitute electricity from a designated renewable generation facility for the standard mix of energy you would otherwise receive under your regular service. Either MGE or a third party can own the renewable generation facility.

Pricing

Together we would create a contract which would require approval from the PSCW. Locking in electricity prices could be a term set by the contract. You would be responsible for all other rates and charges in applicable schedules as set by the PSCW.

Corporate Renewable Energy Buyers' Principles

MGE follows national energy developments to keep its service area competitive and to ensure we meet the energy needs of our customers. The RER is a new option for business customers to consider. Of the largest U.S. businesses, about 60% have set public climate and energy goals to increase use of renewable energy. These large businesses (from Microsoft, to Target, to Hilton Worldwide, to GM) formed the Renewable Energy Buyers Alliance to encourage the development of renewable energy that meets their business needs. 

Next steps

If you're interested in learning more about the RER, please email us at Business@mge.com or contact your MGE account representative at (608) 252-7007 during business hours (8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. M-F). We will meet with you to explain the program and see if it is the right fit for your business.