Tyto Solar, a new 6-megawatt (MW) solar project along Irish Lane in Fitchburg, is now serving MGE electric customers. Like MGE’s other Madison-area renewable energy projects, Tyto Solar is a distributed energy resource that is connected to MGE’s distribution system. It serves all MGE electric customers.

There are more than 13,000 bifacial solar panels at Tyto. Bifacial solar panels produce energy from both sides as they track the sun throughout the day.

Each of the 134 rows of panels is self-powered. The array uses a tracking system that is programmed to rotate with the sun for optimum absorption. This tracking system enables the operator to “stow” the panels during snow events in the winter to prevent snow from collecting on the panels or blocking solar production.

Advancing carbon reductions

Tyto Solar is one of a number of projects to help MGE achieve our industry-leading carbon reduction goals. In spring 2023, the 92-MW Red Barn Wind Farm in Grant County came online. MGE owns a 10% share of the wind farm. In late December 2023, the second 150-MW phase of the Badger Hollow Solar Farm came online. One-third of the 300-MW solar generating facility is serving MGE electric customers. The first phase came online in fall 2021.

By 2030, we expect every MGE electric customer will have 80% fewer carbon emissions from their electricity use simply by being an MGE customer. MGE is working toward our goal of net-zero carbon electricity by investing in cost-effective, clean energy to serve all customers.

Back to Cover